Embarking on a journey to work as a construction worker in Canada holds immense promise for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) seeking rewarding employment opportunities abroad. Canada’s burgeoning construction industry coupled with its robust economy makes it an attractive destination for skilled workers looking to elevate their careers and secure a brighter future.
However, navigating the application process can seem daunting without proper guidance. In this comprehensive guide, we look into the essential steps and insights to help OFWs successfully navigate the path towards securing employment in Canada’s dynamic construction sector.
Disclaimer: The information posted here is based on the personal experiences shared by the OFW in the video below. Please let this post serve as a guide only. If you have specific questions, you may ask the OFW by commenting on their video on their accounts.
Your Guide to Landing a Construction Job in Canada
The information presented in this article comes from a YouTube video from an OFW vlogger based in Canada. Please click the video link below for more information:
The vlogger in our article shows how you can get a construction job in Canada using IPAMS (Industrial Personnel and Management Services Inc). His experience helps us understand a good way for OFWs to work in Canada’s construction industry.
With IPAMS’ help, the vlogger easily applied for the job and got it, thanks to their skill in connecting workers with jobs worldwide.
Requirements
- Create a resume in Canadian format, following IPAMS guidelines
- Ensure resume includes complete work experience with no gaps
- Passport with at least 3 years validity
- NBI Clearance indicating purpose for travel abroad
- Certificate of Employment from previous companies
- Payslips from previous employment
- Company ID
- If currently working abroad:
- Certificate of Employment
- Police clearance from abroad
- Latest 3 months’ payslips
Apply at IPAMS via:
- Online application
- Walk-in application
IPAMS Mobile
You have the convenience of accessing the IPAMS mobile app, aptly named IPAMS Mobile, where you can seamlessly upload your resume and other necessary documents. Following this step, the recruitment staff will promptly reach out to you via phone call and email to guide you through the subsequent stages of the application process.
Additionally, they will inform you of any additional supporting documents required. As part of the process, you will be provided with an IPAMS form that requires completion. Once received via email, you can simply print, fill it out, scan, and return it via email for further processing.
Final Interview
- Wait for notification if you’re shortlisted as an applicant.
- Upon shortlisting, anticipate the final interview, which will be scheduled by the company owner in Canada.
- IPAMS will provide guidance during this stage:
- They will conduct a preliminary interview to assess your English speaking skills.
- IPAMS representatives will guide you through the process.
- The vlogger’s experience:
- In Quebec, where French is predominantly spoken, French language proficiency was required instead of IELTS.
- He waited for three months before the final interview.
- The day after the interview, results were promptly communicated, and he was among the selected candidates.
Process Documents
- Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA):
- Wait for approval from the Government of Canada; it’s necessary for the work permit to be approved.
- Another required document is the Certificate of Acceptance Quebec (CAQ) from the Quebec province.
- Wait time:
- 3 months for LMIA.
- 1 month for CAQ.
- During the waiting period, prepare other necessary documents.
- Upon receiving LMIA and CAQ:
- Biometric data is requested.
- Undergo pre-medical procedures, usually conducted at Nationwide Health System in Cebu, which costs approximately 11,500 pesos.
- Expenses for other documents are covered by both the employer and IPAMS.
- Process after receiving LMIA and CAQ:
- Schedule a VFS Global appointment for biometric submission.
- After 1 month, documents are reviewed for visa approval.
- Medical and biometric results are reviewed first.
- Upon passing, a final decision is sent after about a month, indicating approval.
Final Briefing
- Attend a final briefing at IPAMS as instructed.
- Receive all original documents, including passport and plane ticket, from IPAMS.
- After 3 days, receive a flight schedule to Canada.
- Additionally, ensure you have:
- An international driver’s license.
- Obtain a driver’s license in the Philippines; the employer covers the cost of the international driver’s license.
Temporary Foreign Worker’s Permit
The Temporary Foreign Worker’s Permit (TFWP) is a vital document for individuals seeking employment opportunities in Canada on a temporary basis. It allows foreign workers to legally work in the country for a specified period. Under this program, individuals are granted a closed work permit, restricting employment to a specific employer for a set duration.
In the case of the pathway discussed here, successful applicants are provided with this closed work permit, which typically requires them to commit to a contract of at least three years of employment in Canada. This pathway offers a structured route for overseas workers to secure stable employment in Canada’s thriving industries, contributing to both their personal growth and the country’s labor market needs.
Through the TFWP, individuals gain valuable work experience, while Canadian employers’ benefit from access to skilled workers to fill crucial roles within their organizations.
- Temporary Foreign Worker’s Permit (TFWP) features:
- Closed work permit, restricting employment to a specific employer.
- Prohibition on working elsewhere.
- Requirement to fulfill the contract before being eligible for Permanent Residency (PR).
- Upon obtaining PR, possibility of acquiring an open work permit.
- Work commitment:
- Three-year duration of employment.
- After three years, if PR is not obtained and approved, return to the Philippines may be necessary.
Vlogger Tips
- Tip: Avoid resigning from your current job while applying for work abroad.
- The vlogger’s experience spanned over 14 months before finally arriving in Canada.
- Consideration: While waiting for processing, the vlogger returned home, but faced challenges in finding employment.
- Additional Tips:
- Plan financially for the waiting period between application and departure.
- Stay updated with the progress of your application by regularly communicating with the agency or employer.
- Utilize the waiting period to enhance your skills or qualifications relevant to the job you’re applying for.
In conclusion, pursuing a construction job in Canada presents a promising opportunity for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) seeking to advance their careers abroad. Through structured pathways like those facilitated by IPAMS (Industrial Personnel and Management Services Inc), individuals can navigate the intricate application process with confidence. From crafting a Canadian-style resume to obtaining essential documents such as the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) and the Certificate of Acceptance Quebec (CAQ), each step is crucial in securing a foothold in Canada’s dynamic construction sector.