Applying for a Canadian work visa with a high school diploma is a major concern for many immigrants without tertiary education. Although many immigrants to Canada have post-secondary education or degrees, it is not required. Canada’s immigration system offers various visa options for those with secondary qualifications, such as a high school diploma.
How can one apply for a Canadian work visa with just a high school diploma?
Several alternatives are available, including the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP), and Agri-food Pilot (AFP), among others. It is advisable to examine which programs do not require a university or college diploma and which programs you qualify for. The following are our top three recommendations for Canadian immigration and visa options that do not require a degree or work permit.
How to Apply for a Canadian Work Visa with a High School Diploma
Whether you like it or not, Canada’s ever-popular immigration system includes alternatives for individuals without a post-secondary degree, such as:
1. Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP)
Saskatchewan has some of the most in-demand employment in Canada. To be deemed eligible, the following Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program occupations do not require a post-secondary qualification:
• Semi-skilled Agriculture Worker
• Hospitality Sector (food and beverage server, food counter attendant, kitchen helper, housekeeper, cleaning staff)
• Long Haul Truck Driver
2. Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot
If you desire a simpler life, small-town charm, and a community-oriented way of life, you might want to explore one of the 11 Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot towns (RNIP). You must ensure that you:
• Have legitimate non-seasonal employment in one of the RNIP towns;
• Fulfill the linguistic requirements depending on your NOC code;
• Have a high school education comparable to Canadian standards;
• Have sufficient funds to sustain yourself and your family; and
• Have at least one year of work experience in the last three years.
How long does it take to get a Canadian work visa?
This differs depending on the circumstances. In general, the application process takes around eight weeks. However, it can take anywhere between one and twenty-seven weeks, depending on where you apply and whether your application is complete.
The open work permit enables you to work anywhere in Canada for any company. It is typically required for International Experience Canada (IEC) or the International Mobility Program programs.
If you get a job offer from a Canadian company, you will need an employer-specific work visa. This Canada work visa is required for various programs and streams, particularly those under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program.
1. Confirm your eligibility
Before beginning the Canada work visa application process, it is a good idea to determine which visa program you are eligible for. This will help you decide which Canada work visa to apply for.
2. Decide if you want an open or employer-specific work visa.
It is critical to select the appropriate visa type. There are two work permits in Canada: open work permits and employer-specific work permits. You might want to explore how to secure a Canadian work permit.
The open work permit enables you to work anywhere in Canada for any company. It is typically required for International Experience Canada (IEC) or the International Mobility Program programs.
3. Adhere to country-specific instructions.
The application procedure for your work permit is determined by the visa program or the type of visa you require and by where you apply. Although most nations’ requirements are similar, your local immigration agency or the Canadian government may require additional documents.
Check the criteria carefully to ensure you have everything you need. Any missing documents may cause your application to be delayed or, worse, your visa to be refused. You may also explore how to relocate to Canada without IELTS.
4. Compile relevant documents.
The next step is to double-check that you have all the supporting documents listed in your instruction manual. Some documents may take longer to obtain than others. A medical exam can take up to three months, so apply for documents such as medical and police clearance paperwork first to expedite processing.
5. Sign up for an account and submit your application online.
You may begin the process now that you have everything you need to complete your application. You can create an online profile on the government website. If you have decided to work with a representative, such as an immigration lawyer or a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC), they will create the account and submit your application on your behalf.
6. Pay your application fees and submit it.
After completing your application, you must pay the government application fees before submitting it. To make the payment, you will need a scanner or camera and a valid credit or debit card.
Long-standing labor shortages in Canada have been compounded by the outbreak. Unemployment is at an all-time low. Meanwhile, employment vacancy rates are at all-time highs, with Canada reporting over 900,000 vacant positions recently.
Despite the tight labor market, Canada’s economy not only recovered but even surpassed its pre-pandemic position by the end of 2021. According to the CBC, Canada’s GDP increased by 6.7 percent on an annualized basis in the fourth quarter, exceeding analyst projections of 6.5 percent.
