With a growing need for labor across different sectors, Canada offers countless opportunities for unskilled workers.
Many of these jobs come with visa sponsorship, making it possible for foreign nationals to legally work and settle in the country.
If you’re looking for a high-rewarding job without needing a college degree or specialized training, this guide is for you.
We’ll cover the top unskilled jobs in Canada, how to apply, and how to secure a work visa with sponsorship.
Why Canada Needs Unskilled Workers
As the population ages and birth rates fall, the country is facing a labor shortage, especially in manual labor and service industries. From agriculture to construction, restaurants to caregiving, employers are actively seeking foreign workers to fill these roles.
To address this shortage, the Canadian government has created several immigration pathways that allow employers to sponsor foreign workers.
What Is an Unskilled Job?
Unskilled jobs are positions that do not require advanced education, degrees, or professional certifications. These roles are usually hands-on and can be learned with brief on-the-job training.
Despite being labeled “unskilled,” these jobs are essential and often well-compensated, especially with overtime and bonuses.
Benefits of Unskilled Jobs in Canada
- Visa Sponsorship
- Competitive Wages
- Pathway to Permanent Residency
- High Demand
- Free Healthcare (for PR/Work Permit Holders)
- Access to Public Education for Children
- Multicultural Environment
In-demand, high-paying unskilled jobs
1. Farm Workers and Fruit Pickers
- Salary: CAD $15 – $25/hour
- Locations: British Columbia, Ontario, Alberta
- Job Description: Planting, harvesting, sorting fruits and vegetables.
- Visa Pathway: Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP) or Agri-Food Pilot.
2. Construction Laborers
- Salary: CAD $18 – $30/hour
- Locations: Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary
- Job Description: Assisting with building sites, transporting materials, and using basic tools.
- Visa Pathway: Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)
3. Housekeepers and Cleaners
- Salary: CAD $16 – $25/hour
- Locations: Across Canada
- Job Description: Cleaning residential or commercial properties.
- Visa Pathway: TFWP, Home Support Worker Pilot
4. Truck Drivers
- Salary: CAD $22 – $35/hour
- Job Description: Long-haul or local deliveries.
5. Caregivers and Support Workers
- Salary: CAD $18 – $27/hour
- Locations: Nationwide
- Job Description: Taking care of elderly, children, or disabled individuals.
- Visa Pathway: Home Child Care Provider Pilot or Home Support Worker Pilot
6. Meat Packers and Food Processing Workers
- Salary: CAD $15 – $28/hour
- Job Description: Processing meat, operating machinery, packaging.
- Visa Pathway: Agri-Food Immigration Pilot
7. Janitors and Maintenance Workers
- Salary: CAD $17 – $26/hour
- Job Description: General cleaning and upkeep of buildings.
- Visa Pathway: TFWP
8. Retail Store Workers (Cashiers, Stockers)
- Salary: CAD $15 – $22/hour
- Job Description: Customer service, managing inventory, operating cash registers.
- Visa Pathway: TFWP
9. Warehouse Workers
- Salary: CAD $16 – $25/hour
- Job Description: Order packing, inventory tracking, loading/unloading.
- Visa Pathway: Express Entry (if eligible), TFWP
Visa Sponsorship Programs in Canada
Here are the major visa programs that allow sponsorship for unskilled workers:
1. Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)
Allows employers to hire foreign nationals for temporary roles when no Canadian worker is available.
2. Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP)
Specifically for agricultural jobs such as fruit picking and farm labor.
3. Agri-Food Pilot
Targets workers in the agriculture and food sector. Offers a pathway to permanent residency.
4. Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
5. Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
Each province has its own list of in-demand jobs. Some provinces sponsor unskilled workers.
6. Home Care Provider Pilots
Allows caregivers to come to Canada to care for children or elderly people. Offers permanent residency after 24 months of work.
How to Apply for Unskilled Jobs with Visa Sponsorship
Step 1: Prepare Your Resume (CV)
Highlight your experience, even if it’s not formal employment.
Step 2: Search for Jobs
Use job portals that frequently list visa-sponsored jobs:
- Job Bank Canada
- Indeed Canada
- Workopolis
- AgriJobs
Step 3: Apply Directly to Employers
Look for employers who are listed under Canada’s list of LMIA-approved employers. LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment) is a document that proves no Canadian workers are available to fill the role.
Step 4: Secure a Job Offer
Step 5: Apply for a Work Permit
- Job offer letter
- LMIA document
- Valid passport
- Proof of funds (in some cases)
- Police clearance and medical examination (if required)
Tips to Increase Your Chances of Visa Sponsorship
- Tailor your resume for each job
- Apply to multiple job portals
- Reach out to Canadian recruitment agencies
- Get familiar with basic English or French
- Learn some basic skills relevant to the job
- Practice common interview questions
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
| Challenge | Solution |
|---|---|
| Language Barrier | Take free online English or French classes |
| Lack of Canadian Experience | Highlight transferable skills |
| Difficulty Finding Employers | Use job boards that filter visa-sponsored jobs |
| Long Visa Processing Time | Apply early and track application status |
Can You Apply Without IELTS?
Yes! For many unskilled jobs under TFWP or SAWP, IELTS is not mandatory. However, for immigration programs like the PNP or Express Entry, language tests may be required.
Final Thoughts
Canada offers life-changing opportunities for unskilled workers who are willing to work hard and adapt.
With high-paying jobs, visa sponsorship, and even a path to permanent residency, working in Canada can be the first step to a better future.
Whether you’re a farm worker, cleaner, caregiver, or truck driver, there’s a place for you in the Canadian economy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is it hard to get unskilled jobs in Canada?
No. Many industries are actively hiring unskilled workers due to labor shortages.
Do unskilled jobs pay well in Canada?
Yes. Most unskilled jobs pay between CAD $15 to $30/hour, which is competitive.
Can I bring my family with me?
In most cases, yes. Especially if you are on a valid work permit or applying for PR.
Is visa sponsorship guaranteed?
No. You need to apply to LMIA-approved employers, and they must agree to sponsor your visa.
Start Your Canadian Dream Today!
If you’re serious about working in Canada as an unskilled worker, start by preparing your resume, applying to jobs, and exploring visa options.
With determination and the right resources, your dream of a better life in Canada can become a reality.



