American applying for Canadian Jobs

[edgeacef22]

I'm about to begin the Canadian job hunt from within the US.

Is it generally less likely for an employer to consider an American who doesn't have a work visa, thus making the process more difficult? (hoping to get an expedited visa after a job offer is made, as I've read that's possible under NAFTA)

Thanks

 

[scylla]

Depends if the specific job you are applying for falls under NAFTA or not. If it does, then you have a better chance of being hired than a foreign worker from another country - however many employers may still not be interested in going through the work permit process and will most likely prefer a Canadian over you. If the job does not fall under NAFTA - then the vast majority of employers won't be interested in hiring you since they won't be willing to go through the LMIA process.

 

[scylla]

Just to add to the above - aren't you technically still a PR?

If you are, then you can't obtain a work permit. Work permits can only be granted to those without PR or citizenship status.

 

[edgeacef22]

Ah yes I am, this post was actually for my partner, but for the sake of simplicity I just wrote it in first person rather than third.

 

[scylla]

Ah yes I am, this post was actually for my partner, but for the sake of simplicity I just wrote it in first person rather than third.

Got it - makes sense.

Not sure if anyone has told you - but if you're able to re-enter Canada without being reported - you won't be able to sponsor your partner for PR immediately. You will have to wait until you have lived in Canada for two years and meet the PR residency requirement. This is very important. If you try to sponsor a partner before you meet RO, this will trigger an investigation of your own PR status and you can expect your status to be revoked.

 

[edgeacef22]

That I know, so he's on his own. He has a bachelor's of science and a little IT experience, and we were just trying to get an idea as to how hard it will be for him to get a job from outside Canada, as he's in the states right now.

Thanks for the help and info

 

[scylla]

That I know, so he's on his own. He has a bachelor's of science and a little IT experience, and we were just trying to get an idea as to how hard it will be for him to get a job from outside Canada, as he's in the states right now.

Thanks for the help and info

Without knowing specific details (what area of IT, how many years experience) - generally it's very difficult. However some people are certainly successful.