At what point are companies likely to be interested employing me and supporting my immigration?

[PhilV]

Hey all, so my wife and I have set our sights on emigrating to Canada. I’ve been working as a software developer for a little over six months, have a general background in IT and teaching, and a long time ago got a degree in Computer Science.

Largely because of my age (44), going through the general express route without a job offer isn’t feasible as my score isn’t high enough. I’m aware that Canada is keen on bringing developers into the country, and there are some provincial streams aimed to help with this. However, what I don’t know is the point at which my career becomes interesting enough for a company to be willing to support/sponsor my immigration.

I don’t want to spend loads of time researching and contacting companies if my career isn’t yet in a position where anyone would be interested in me, and I have no idea how the whole Covid thing might have affected the situation. I would be extremely grateful for any guidance on my situation, and when companies are likely to start being interested in me.

 

[scylla]

Hey all, so my wife and I have set our sights on emigrating to Canada. I’ve been working as a software developer for a little over six months, have a general background in IT and teaching, and a long time ago got a degree in Computer Science.

Largely because of my age (44), going through the general express route without a job offer isn’t feasible as my score isn’t high enough. I’m aware that Canada is keen on bringing developers into the country, and there are some provincial streams aimed to help with this. However, what I don’t know is the point at which my career becomes interesting enough for a company to be willing to support/sponsor my immigration.

I don’t want to spend loads of time researching and contacting companies if my career isn’t yet in a position where anyone would be interested in me, and I have no idea how the whole Covid thing might have affected the situation. I would be extremely grateful for any guidance on my situation, and when companies are likely to start being interested in me.

It's generally very difficult to find companies willing to support your immigration / give you a job offer. Even those with 10+ years of specialized experience struggle. It can be easier if you are in Canada and already working under a work permit (e.g. if you come to Canada on a study permit and then qualify for a post graduate study permit after you finish your studies). Generally speaking, the recommendation is not to try to look for jobs but to focus on immigrating without a job offer.

 

[wonderbly]

I'm 44 and I've got 17+ years experience as a Software Developer and I couldn't get any company to do an LMIA. Lots of them wanted to employ me, but only if i can get myself to Canada. I eventually went for PNP and study. Luckily both paths worked out for me at the same time.

Highly skilled and experienced Programmers are a dime a dozen, so competition is stiff. 6 months worth of experience in this field won't cut it at all, I'm afraid.