The availability of a job offer from an overseas employer is a major advantage for skilled workers who intend to build a bright future abroad, by fulfilling job market deficiencies in the employer’s country. Those seeking overseas jobs for the purpose of permanent or temporary residence abroad must ensure that the job offer will indeed benefit their immigration prospects.

Canada is the most popular destination for immigration aspirants, primarily owing to the diverse range of job opportunities available in the country’s labour market. The Express Entry Program is the swiftest pathway for living and working permanently in Canada. Under this program, the eligibility of immigration aspirants is evaluated based on points allocated under various selection factors of the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS).

A job can be sought through a variety of pathways, such as intra-company transfer, directly contacting the employer, online portals, through a foreign job consultancy, etc. A candidate who possesses a valid job offer from a Canadian employer can claim as many as 200 CRS points for ‘Arranged Employment’. To ensure that the job offer is ‘valid’, the prospective employee must keep certain factors in mind:

The job offer should be for a full-time position, not for seasonal or part-time employment.

The job offer should be for at least a one-year duration.

The job offer should be for a skilled job listed under Skill Type 0, or Skill Level A or B of the National Occupational Classification (NOC). Arranged employment in NOC 00 adds 200 points to the total CRS score, while a job offer in NOC 0, A or B adds 50 points.

The job offer must be in writing from the employer. It should mention details regarding the remuneration/pay and deductions, job duties, and conditions of employment (such as hours of work)

Those exploring options for how to get a job abroad must note that a work permit, or open work permit, is not equivalent to a job offer.

In most scenarios, the job offer must be supported by an LMIA – Labour Market Impact Assessment. The employer must apply for an LMIA from Employment and Social Development Canada/Service Canada. If the LMIA is positive, the employer should send a copy of the report and a written job offer to the employee.

A job offer from an embassy, consulate or high commission in Canada – or from an employer who is on the list of ineligible employers – is invalid.

It is important for an immigration aspirant to safeguard themselves against fraudulent or misleading employers and overseas jobs recruitment agencies, by ensuring that their Canadian job offer is authentic and valid.