Working in Canada is a popular option for foreign workers due to its safe, multicultural atmosphere and abundance of benefits.
However, there may also be some drawbacks to living in Canada that might deter you from moving there for work. To help you make an informed decision about whether it’s worth moving here for work, let’s take a look at some of these advantages and drawbacks!
1. Low Unemployment Rates
International workers find the low unemployment rates associated with working in Canada on a work visa an immense advantage. Not only can they earn a good salary, but they also have access to all of Canada’s benefits such as health care and education opportunities.
In June, Canada’s official unemployment rate reached a new historic low of 4.9% – down 0.2 percentage points from May. This decline was largely attributed to job growth in healthcare, transportation, and warehousing, education services, as well as other service-producing sectors.
However, the Canadian economy continues to face a labor shortage and employers struggle to find enough workers to fill their openings. This has resulted in an increase in people seeking a balance between a good income and an enjoyable lifestyle, so they can enjoy both while working here in Canada.
2. Free Health Care
One of the major advantages to working in Canada on a work visa is access to free healthcare. This system, known as Medicare, provides universal coverage for all Canadian citizens and permanent residents alike.
This publicly funded health system is administered at the provincial/territorial level and focuses on preventative care to reduce disparities in access to healthcare services.
Unfortunately, certain services and items that fall outside the scope of public health insurance in Canada are not covered. These include prescription drugs, dental and opticians’ services, as well as paramedical care.
3. Access to Employment Insurance
If you possess a valid work permit and are employed in Canada on an insurable basis, then employment insurance (EI) could be available to you. EI is a federal program that offers income support to unemployed workers who have been employed in an insurable occupation, paid premiums in the year prior to applying for benefits, and fulfilled all other qualifying conditions.
Most foreign workers who come to Canada on a work visa are eligible for EI regular benefits, provided they are actively looking for employment. However, there may be certain circumstances under which an employee of Canada could be denied these benefits.
4. Access to a Pension Plan
If you work in Canada on a work visa, then you may have access to various pension plans such as the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) and Quebec Pension Plan (QPP).
Before signing any social security agreement, it’s important to verify its specifics. Each agreement differs.
A social security agreement can enable you to receive either Canadian or foreign benefits, such as pensions from Canada or the United States, Old Age Security (OAS) payments, disability benefits and survivor’s pensions.
To be eligible for CPP, OAS or disability benefits in Canada, you must meet a minimum period of residence. Depending on the social security agreement, this could be 10 years or more.
5. Free Education
One of the primary advantages of working in Canada on a work visa is free education. The Canadian government has made significant efforts to guarantee all its citizens access to an excellent education.
For this reason, the government has collaborated with universities to offer low tuition fees and numerous scholarship programs. This helps students get a quality education in Canada and earn a recognized certificate.
However, if you wish to work while studying in Canada, a study permit is required and sufficient financial resources must be shown so that you can support yourself during your studies without working.
