Canada, known for its stunning landscapes and diverse culture, continues to be a beacon for international workers seeking new opportunities and a high quality of life.

Despite its focus on attracting skilled immigrants, there remains a significant demand for unskilled labor across various sectors of the Canadian economy.

This demand, coupled with labor shortages in specific industries, has created a unique situation where many unskilled jobs now offer competitive salaries and the possibility of visa sponsorship.

In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 highest-paying unskilled jobs in Canada that currently offer visa sponsorship opportunities.

These positions typically fall under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) or the International Mobility Program (IMP), which allow Canadian employers to hire foreign workers to fill temporary labor and skill shortages.

What are Unskilled Jobs?

Before we delve into our list, it’s important to understand what we mean by “unskilled” jobs in the Canadian context.

These are roles that generally don’t require higher education qualifications or extensive prior experience. However, they often involve on-the-job training and can lead to skilled positions over time.

The availability of visa sponsorship for these roles makes them particularly attractive to international job seekers.

Canadian employers, facing difficulties in filling certain positions locally, are often willing to sponsor suitable candidates for work permits.

This creates opportunities for those looking to start a new life in Canada while addressing critical workforce needs in the country.

Let’s explore these roles and the prospects they offer for those looking to work in the Great White North.

1. Long-Haul Truck Driver

Long-haul truck drivers in Canada can earn between CAD 50,000 and CAD 75,000 per year, with some experienced drivers earning even more.

These positions are often eligible for visa sponsorship under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP).

The job involves transporting goods across Canada’s vast landscape, from bustling cities to remote areas.

Drivers typically spend long periods on the road, making it an ideal job for those who enjoy travel and independence.

While a valid commercial driver’s license is required, many companies offer training programs for international applicants.

The ongoing shortage of truck drivers in Canada makes this a highly sought-after profession with excellent job security.

2. Farm Worker

Farm workers in Canada can expect to earn between CAD 30,000 and CAD 45,000 annually, with the potential for higher earnings during peak seasons.

These roles are often eligible for visa sponsorship under the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP), which is part of the TFWP.

Farm workers perform various tasks such as planting, harvesting, and tending to crops and livestock.

The work is physically demanding and often seasonal, but it provides an excellent opportunity for those seeking entry into the Canadian job market.

Many farms offer accommodation as part of the employment package, which can be particularly attractive for international workers.

No formal qualifications are required, but a willingness to work outdoors in varying weather conditions is essential.

3. Food Service Worker

Food service workers in Canada, including roles such as servers, kitchen helpers, and fast food workers, can earn between CAD 28,000 and CAD 40,000 per year, with the potential for higher earnings through tips in service positions.

These jobs are often eligible for visa sponsorship under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP), particularly in areas experiencing labor shortages in the hospitality sector.

The role involves preparing and serving food and beverages, maintaining cleanliness in dining areas, and providing customer service.

Canada’s vibrant tourism industry and growing food service sector ensure a constant demand for these workers.

While no formal qualifications are required, good communication skills and a customer-focused attitude are essential.

Many employers provide on-the-job training, and there are often opportunities for advancement into supervisory roles.

4. Construction Laborer

Construction laborers in Canada can expect to earn between CAD 35,000 and CAD 55,000 annually, with the potential for higher earnings through overtime and specialized skills.

These positions are frequently eligible for visa sponsorship under the TFWP, as the Canadian construction industry often experiences labor shortages.

Construction laborers assist skilled tradespeople on construction sites, performing tasks such as site preparation, material handling, and basic building work. Canada’s ongoing infrastructure development and housing projects ensure a steady demand for construction workers.

While no formal qualifications are required to start, many employers provide on-site safety training, and there are opportunities to gain certifications in various aspects of construction work.

The physically demanding nature of the work and the potential for year-round employment make this an attractive option for those seeking stable, well-paid work in Canada.

5. Warehouse Worker

Warehouse workers in Canada can earn between CAD 32,000 and CAD 45,000 per year, with the potential for higher earnings through shift differentials and overtime.

These positions are often eligible for visa sponsorship under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP), particularly in areas with large distribution centers.

The role involves tasks such as receiving and processing incoming stock, picking and packing orders, operating forklifts, and maintaining inventory records.

With the growth of e-commerce and Canada’s position as a major trading hub, the demand for efficient warehouse operations has surged.

Many positions offer flexible working hours and opportunities for advancement into supervisory roles.

While no specific qualifications are required, employers value physical fitness, attention to detail, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment.

On-the-job training is typically provided, including safety procedures and equipment operation.

6. Care Aide

Care aides in Canada, also known as personal support workers or nursing assistants, can expect to earn between CAD 35,000 and CAD 50,000 annually.

These roles are frequently eligible for visa sponsorship under the TFWP due to the growing demand in Canada’s healthcare sector.

Care aides provide personal care and support to elderly, disabled, or recovering individuals in long-term care facilities, hospitals, or private homes. Tasks may include assisting with daily activities, basic health monitoring, and providing companionship.

Canada’s aging population has created a high demand for care workers, leading to job security and opportunities for career advancement.

While some provinces require certification, many employers provide on-the-job training and support for obtaining the necessary qualifications.

This role is ideal for compassionate individuals who enjoy helping others and can handle the physical demands of the job.

7. Hotel Housekeeper

Hotel housekeepers in Canada can earn between CAD 28,000 and CAD 38,000 per year, with the potential for higher earnings in luxury establishments or through overtime.

These positions are often eligible for visa sponsorship under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP), particularly in areas with a thriving tourism industry.

The role involves cleaning and maintaining hotel rooms and public areas, ensuring high standards of cleanliness and guest satisfaction.

Canada’s vast tourism sector, from bustling cities to scenic mountain resorts, creates a consistent demand for hotel staff. While no formal qualifications are required, attention to detail, efficiency, and good interpersonal skills are valued.

Many hotels provide on-the-job training, and there are often opportunities for advancement into supervisory positions.

The job can be physically demanding but offers stable employment and the chance to work in diverse, often picturesque locations across Canada.

8. Manufacturing Worker

Manufacturing workers in Canada can expect to earn between CAD 32,000 and CAD 48,000 annually, with the potential for higher earnings through shift work and performance bonuses.

These roles are frequently eligible for visa sponsorship under the TFWP, as Canada’s manufacturing sector often experiences labor shortages.

Manufacturing workers perform a variety of tasks depending on the industry, which may include operating machinery, assembling products, quality control, and packaging.

Canada’s diverse manufacturing sector, spanning industries from automotive to food processing, provides a range of opportunities for unskilled workers.

Many factories operate on shift systems, offering flexible working hours.

While no specific qualifications are needed, employers value reliability, attention to detail, and the ability to work as part of a team. On-the-job training is typically provided, and there are often pathways for progression into specialized or supervisory roles.

9. Delivery Driver

Delivery drivers in Canada can earn between CAD 30,000 and CAD 45,000 per year, with the potential for higher earnings through tips and performance bonuses.

These positions are often eligible for visa sponsorship under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP), particularly due to the growing demand in the e-commerce and food delivery sectors.

The role involves transporting goods from warehouses or restaurants to businesses and residential addresses, typically using cars or small vans.

With the boom in online shopping and food delivery services, especially in urban areas, the demand for reliable delivery drivers has surged.

Many companies offer flexible working hours and performance-based incentives. While a valid Canadian driver’s license is required, which can be obtained after arriving in Canada, no other formal qualifications are necessary.

This makes it an accessible option for many international workers looking to enter the Canadian job market.

10. Meat Processing Worker

Meat processing workers in Canada can expect to earn between CAD 30,000 and CAD 42,000 annually, with opportunities for higher pay through shift work and overtime.

These roles are frequently eligible for visa sponsorship under the TFWP, as Canada’s meat processing industry often faces labor shortages.

Meat processing workers are responsible for various tasks in slaughterhouses and meat packing plants, including cutting, trimming, and packaging meat products.

The work can be physically demanding and is performed in controlled, cold environments.

Canada’s large agriculture and food production sector ensures a constant demand for workers in this field.

While no formal qualifications are required, attention to detail and the ability to follow strict health and safety procedures are essential.

Employers typically provide comprehensive on-the-job training, including food safety protocols.

This role offers stable employment and can be a stepping stone to more specialized positions within the food processing industry.

Conclusion

For international workers seeking new horizons, these roles could be your entry point to a rewarding career and life in Canada.

With salaries ranging from CAD 28,000 to CAD 75,000 annually and opportunities for advancement, now might be the perfect time to consider your Canadian adventure.

Next Read: Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Canadian Work Permit: Tips for Unskilled Workers

This article will provide detailed information on the work permit application process for unskilled workers in Canada. It will cover the necessary documents, and application procedures, and offer insider tips to increase your chances of success.

Whether you’re interested in long-haul trucking or hospitality work, this guide will help you navigate the path to working in Canada.