There are a variety of factors that could make it challenging for you to obtain a work visa in Canada, but there are also some strategies and tips that can help you overcome these obstacles.
One of the most frequent work visa application obstacles is “employment prospects in your home country”. This can be especially tricky for those who have a strong connection to their native land, such as an existing job.
1. Insufficient Documentation
One of the primary issues faced when applying for a work visa in Canada is inadequate documentation. The applicant must demonstrate they have enough funds both during their stay in Canada and upon return home.
Insufficient documentation can also be caused by not submitting required documents or incorrectly filling out paperwork. This issue can easily be rectified if the applicant provides updated documentation and reapplies.
Unemployment in one’s country of residence can be a significant barrier when applying for a work visa in Canada. An immigration officer may conclude that the applicant is unlikely to find employment back home once they depart Canada, leading to the rejection of their application.
This area is intricate, involving multiple forms and instructions ranging from an initial application form to the IMM 5669 – Schedule A form which requires full personal history from 18 years old. This may seem complicated at first glance; requests letters may even be required for information that wasn’t even required on the initial form itself.
2. Criminal History
A criminal record is more than just the list of charges you were found guilty or innocent of. It may include arrests, charges that led to an arrest, and even non-criminal offenses like driving under the influence (DUI).
Many employers and licensing agencies check candidates’ criminal records prior to hiring them. This process can take a considerable amount of time, particularly if the candidate resides in another jurisdiction than the employer.
No matter the nature or date, a conviction for any offence, misdemeanor or felony can make you inadmissible to Canada. However, you may be able to overcome this inadmissibility by applying for criminal rehabilitation and being deemed rehabilitated. Unfortunately, this process takes a considerable amount of time and requires numerous references proving your rehabilitation has taken place.
3. Unsatisfactory Communication Skills
Communication can be a tricky skill to master. Whether communicating face-to-face, on the phone or via text message, it is essential to have an acute awareness of what your audience wants you to convey so that you can address their worries with precision and relevance. A skilled communicator is key when it comes to maintaining effective relationships with colleagues and bosses alike.
Luckily, the best way to enhance your communication abilities is by being open to learning new methods and making small modifications in how you communicate. Doing this will have a direct effect on how well you connect with others at work as well as in personal life. With practice comes success – though it may take some effort initially, the rewards will be well worth the effort in the end.
4. Mistaken Identity
If you have been hired to work in Canada, it is essential that you can demonstrate that you are employed in a position which allows for the granting of a work visa. Employers usually use their own methods for verifying employment and may check potential employees’ backgrounds prior to hiring them.
Another potential hurdle that may obstruct your work visa application in Canada is mistaken identity. While modern record keeping and background checks have greatly reduced the instances of misidentification, it remains a potential issue.
Mistaken identity can occur when insufficient information is captured. To reduce the risk, ask for recent bills in the applicant’s name and, if in doubt about their identity, request fingerprint identification. Furthermore, requesting a passport with an up-to-date address helps rule out any possible mistakes in their past records.
