How easy is it to get a job (legally) in canada, if you are not a Canadian citizen?

Question

Recently, on a trip to Vancouver, I was amazed at the amount of busunesses/shops which were looking for full time staff/part time staff...almost 1 in 3. If the good Canadian people don't want the job, I will gladly do it, if I can become a citizen.

I have recently taken redundancy after more than 20 years in my last job. I don't have the necessary paper qualifications, but am honest, hardworking, and I have family in Toronto and Vancouver...I want to do things properly...By the way, I am from the UK!

Answer 1

That's the thing...often it's the immigrants that take the jobs we don't want, which is a reason why so many come to the country.

Answer 2

It's difficult if you're resident in UK because your prospective employer has to prove to the Immigration service that no-one else can do the job that they want to give to you (that you aren't taking a job from a Canadian citizen) and then they apply for a work permit for you (that's what happened with me). It's a crazy situation where you have to get the offer of a job before you can get the work permit.
You mentioned becoming a citizen. As far as I am aware, you have to become a resident first. (That's after you've got your job, your work permit and the Canadian equivelant of a National Insurance number). Only then can you apply for Citizenship.
I've been here (Canada) for a few weeks now and I think I've understood it right. I'll be reading your other answers just in case!
Good Luck.

Answer 3

Just as easy as it is for an illegal immigrant to get a job. In real life, all you do is get a working pass from customs through your job. This will allow you to work there and or live there.

Answer 4

I'm a teacher, and I'm told it isn't so easy because the Canadian schools system is good. Will be interested to see how this question pans out!

Answer 5

I hear it's relatively easy, you just have to fill out some paperwork. I live in Canada.