When you first arrive in Canada, one of your biggest worries is finding that first job. The good news: Canada has plenty of free tools and services built for exactly this — you just need to know where to start. We wrote this guide to be simple and practical so the path is clearer. (Note: this is general information only, not personal legal or immigration advice.)
First things first: two basics to sort out
Before you start job-hunting, line up two things you legally can't be hired without.
Get your SIN
To work in Canada you need a Social Insurance Number — a 9-digit SIN. It's free. You can apply online, in person at a Service Canada office, or by mail. In person you usually get it on the spot; online takes up to about 15 business days and by mail up to about 25.
The documents you need depend on your status. If you're a permanent resident (PR), bring your PR card or Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) plus a valid passport. If you came on a work or study permit, the permit that states you may work is enough. If your documents are in Farsi, they need a certified English or French translation.
Open a newcomer bank account
Most of Canada's big banks have newcomer programs, usually with no monthly fee for a year or two. You'll need a chequing account to receive your pay. You can open one with your passport and proof of status — sometimes even before you arrive. Exact terms and offers change every year, so compare a few banks.
The Canadian résumé: why it's different
A résumé that worked in Iran or Afghanistan won't necessarily work here. Canadian employers know their own style and set aside résumés that look different.
The unwritten rules of a Canadian résumé
- Leave out your photo, age, marital status and nationality. Canadians don't include these — it can even run against anti-discrimination rules. Your résumé is only about your ability to do the work.
- Keep it short and targeted — usually one to two pages. Put a short summary at the top.
- Show achievements, not just duties. Instead of "responsible for sales," write "grew sales 20% in one year."
- Tailor the résumé for each posting. Pull keywords from the ad into your résumé, since many companies first filter résumés with software.
- Write a cover letter. In many places it still matters.
How do you build "Canadian experience"?
If you've just arrived and hear "you don't have Canadian experience," don't lose heart. Volunteering, short courses, or even a temporary job builds your first line of experience — and just as importantly, plugs you into a network of people.
Networking: the tool you underrate the most
In Canada a large share of jobs are never advertised — they're filled through referrals and connections. So sending résumés alone isn't enough.
Where to start
- Take LinkedIn seriously. Build a complete, professional profile, connect with people in your field, and be active in job groups.
- Coffee chats. Message people in your field and ask for 15 minutes to talk about your career path — it's completely normal here.
- The Farsi-speaking community. Iranian, Afghan and Tajik associations, events and groups in your city are often your first job referrals.
The right places to look for work
Free government services
The Canadian government offers free Settlement Services — including help with job searching, résumé workshops, interview practice and networking events. They're available to permanent residents, refugees and some temporary residents. Use your postal code to find the nearest centre.
The government Job Bank
Job Bank is the Canadian government's official job site, with a dedicated section for newcomers. It has real postings, a skills-matching tool and a labour-market guide.
Job sites and going direct
Check Indeed, LinkedIn and the specialist sites for your field. But remember the best results come when you combine these with networking.
Frequently asked questions
How long will it take to find my first job?
It depends a lot on your field, language level and network. For some it's a few weeks, for others a few months. Your first job is rarely the dream job — and that's fine; it's the first step.
Is a foreign degree enough?
For many jobs, yes — but some professions (like nursing, engineering, medicine) need a credential assessment or a Canadian licence. A credential assessment (ECA) helps you get noticed.
My English isn't strong — do I have a chance?
Yes. Free language classes (LINC) are available for eligible newcomers, and many jobs start with intermediate English. Keep building your language at the same time.
Should I get my SIN first, or start job-hunting first?
Both at once. You can look for work, but you need a SIN to formally start a job — so apply early.
Let's take your next step
Finding your first job feels hard, but with the right tools it's doable. At canadafarsi.com/portal/ see our free tools that make settling into Canada simpler. And if you'd like fresh tips and opportunities every week, join our free newsletter. We're with you.
www.canada.ca · www.canada.ca · ircc.canada.ca · www.jobbank.gc.ca