Finding Work in Canada: Tips and Resources for Newcomers

Canada is home to immigrants from around the world and continues to attract highly skilled newcomers whose contributions enrich its culture, society, and economy. Despite this, many immigrants face significant barriers when trying to enter the labour market. These challenges can prevent them from fully applying their skills and often lead to underemployment in entry‑level positions.

This page outlines the key obstacles immigrants encounter when seeking employment in Canada and provides resources to help newcomers navigate and overcome these barriers.

Canadian Experience and other barriers to entering the labour market

Many immigrants who come to Canada face several barriers when trying to enter the workforce, and one of the most common is the requirement for Canadian Experience. This occurs when employers expect candidates to have previous work experience in Canada before being considered for a role. Canadian Experience generally refers to familiarity with employment standards, the ability to adapt to workplace culture, and soft skills—such as communication and interpersonal interactions aligned with Canadian social norms.

Other barriers newcomers may encounter when trying to find a job include:

Undervaluing education and professional experience gained abroad.
Lack of support for integrating into a team.
Insufficient job‑related training opportunities.
Having an application rejected for being “too qualified”.
Discrimination.

Fortunately, the practice of requiring Canadian work experience has been recognized as a form of discrimination. Beginning January 1st, 2026, Ontario employers with more than 25 employees will be prohibited from requiring Canadian work experience in job postings or application forms. Under the new rules, employers must also:

List compensation or a salary range in the job posting.
Reveal whether artificial intelligence is used in the hiring process
Indicate whether a posting is for a current vacancy or for future opportunities.
Provide feedback within 45 days after an interview.

These changes aim to ensure hiring practices are more transparent, equitable, and fair for all job applicants, including newcomers.

Growing your network

Networking is an important part of the Canadian labour market. It involves getting to know professionals and collaborating to help with career development. Networking can feel overwhelming for newcomers who are still adapting to a new culture, language, and environment, especially when they are told repeatedly that it is essential for finding a job. Approaching strangers and promoting oneself professionally can seem intimidating, but networking does not have to be stressful. At its core, networking is about forming genuine connections, discovering shared interests, and exchanging information, not asking for favours or immediate job opportunities.

By focusing on getting to know people, being friendly, asking questions, and paying attention to how others respond, newcomers can leave positive impressions that naturally build trust. Over time, these authentic interactions can develop into meaningful relationships that may eventually lead to job opportunities or new business connections.

Check out the resources below to help you grow your network:

Events

LIP events – Our team promotes a variety of community events that support inclusion, cultural exchange, and community building. Visit our events page to learn about upcoming opportunities.

Meetup – A platform that helps people with similar interests connect. It offers many opportunities for networking, exploring hobbies, or creating meaningful friendships.

Eventbrite – Search for events in your area, from music and arts to professional workshops and job fairs.

Networking Associations

Perth and District Chamber of Commerce (PDCC) – Helps professionals and businesses grow by offering networking, visibility, and learning opportunities.

Renfrew and Area Chamber of Commerce (RACC) – Advocates for local businesses and connects entrepreneurs with established organizations.

Upper Ottawa Valley Chamber of Commerce (UOVCC) – Supports business owners and entrepreneurs through networking opportunities, advocacy, and professional development.

PINs Directory – search for immigrant associations that can help you build networks and access resources across a wide range of professions.

Social Media

Facebook – Search for local groups, community events, and pages in your area to learn about opportunities to meet new people.

LinkedIn – Connect with professionals in your community to build relationships and exchange information about the job market.