Last Updated on July 19, 2025 by TrendyAcads
“Canada plans to welcome over 1.5 million immigrants by 2027—and a significant portion of those are needed in unskilled sectors.”
For thousands of hopeful migrants worldwide, Canada represents opportunity, stability, and a better life. While many assume you must have a degree or high-level expertise to work in Canada, this couldn’t be further from the truth. Unskilled jobs in Canada with visa sponsorship are in demand and offer legal pathways for foreign workers to live and work in the country—with or without experience.
In this article, you’ll discover how to find unskilled jobs in Canada, which industries are hiring, how visa sponsorship works, and how you can begin your journey to Canadian residency through honest work.
Why Canada Needs Unskilled Foreign Workers
Canada faces one of the most pressing labor shortages in its history. The population is aging rapidly, birth rates are low, and industries such as agriculture, manufacturing, hospitality, and home care are struggling to find workers.
To fill this labor gap, the Canadian government has developed programs that welcome foreign nationals to take up unskilled or low-skilled jobs across various sectors—with the possibility of visa sponsorship and permanent residency.
These jobs may not require formal education, but they play a critical role in keeping Canada’s economy running.
What Are Unskilled Jobs?
Unskilled jobs are roles that do not require a university degree or professional license. However, they often involve physical labor, repetitive tasks, and entry-level duties.
Examples of unskilled jobs in Canada include:
- Farmworkers
- Cleaners and Janitors
- Food Processing Workers
- Construction Laborers
- Factory Workers
- Warehouse Assistants
- Housekeepers
- Meat Packers
- Fish Plant Workers
- Caregivers (Non-medical support roles)
- Dishwashers
- Grocery Clerks
- Kitchen Helpers
Do Unskilled Jobs in Canada Come with Visa Sponsorship?
Yes—but there’s a process.
Many employers in Canada are eligible to hire foreign workers under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP). This program allows Canadian employers to fill labor shortages when no Canadians or permanent residents are available.
Under TFWP, employers can:
- Apply for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) to prove a foreign worker is needed
- Issue a job offer letter to the selected foreign worker
- Assist in applying for a work permit under a visa sponsorship
This is the main pathway through which unskilled workers can enter Canada legally and work full-time jobs.
Top Programs Offering Visa Sponsorship for Unskilled Jobs in Canada
1. Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)
This is the most common path for unskilled labor. Employers must get a positive LMIA, then offer you a job. You apply for a work permit afterward.
2. Agri-Food Pilot
For people working in meat processing, mushroom farming, and greenhouse crops. This pilot allows unskilled foreign workers to apply for permanent residency after meeting certain requirements.
3. Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP)
Allows workers from specific countries to work seasonal farm jobs in Canada (up to 8 months per year). Many return annually.
4. Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
Some provinces have their own immigration streams for semi-skilled and unskilled workers, especially in agriculture, hospitality, and transportation. Examples include:
- British Columbia Entry Level and Semi-Skilled Worker Stream
- Alberta’s Opportunity Stream
- Manitoba’s General Stream for Farm Workers
Requirements for Unskilled Jobs in Canada
You don’t need a degree, but you must meet basic eligibility:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have a valid job offer from a Canadian employer
- Get a positive LMIA (employer applies)
- Apply for a work permit and visa
- Have a clean criminal record
- Pass a basic medical examination
- Proof of funds (if required depending on program)
- Basic English or French skills are helpful (but not mandatory in every case)
Where to Find Unskilled Jobs in Canada with Visa Sponsorship
Finding a genuine employer willing to sponsor is the key. Look for verified job listings from employers participating in the TFWP or Agri-Food Pilot.
Top platforms to search:
- Job Bank Canada (official government website)
- Indeed.ca (search “visa sponsorship”, “LMIA approved”)
- Workopolis
- AgriRecruiting.com
- CanadaFarmJobs.ca
- Glassdoor.ca
- Company career pages of food plants, cleaning companies, farms, or logistics companies
Search terms to use:
“Farm jobs with LMIA”, “General labourer visa sponsorship”, “Factory worker TFWP”, “Unskilled Canada work permit”
Sample Salaries for Unskilled Workers in Canada
Here’s what you might earn in some of the top industries:
| Job Role | Average Salary (Annual CAD) |
|---|---|
| Farmworker | $28,000 – $36,000 |
| Factory Worker | $32,000 – $42,000 |
| Housekeeper | $30,000 – $38,000 |
| Construction Labourer | $35,000 – $48,000 |
| Cleaner/Janitor | $29,000 – $37,000 |
| Kitchen Helper | $28,000 – $34,000 |
| Meat Packer | $35,000 – $50,000 |
Some employers offer free accommodation, transportation support, or overtime pay, making the net income more attractive.
How to Apply for Unskilled Jobs with Visa Sponsorship
Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:
Step 1: Build a Canadian-Style Resume
Highlight physical labor, reliability, teamwork, and flexibility.
Step 2: Search for LMIA-Approved Employers
Focus only on jobs mentioning visa sponsorship or foreign worker acceptance.
Step 3: Apply Directly
Apply via company websites, emails, or job platforms. Attach your resume and a brief cover letter.
Step 4: Secure a Job Offer
Once selected, the employer will start the LMIA application.
Step 5: Apply for a Work Permit
With a positive LMIA and job offer, you apply for a work permit and visa.
Tips to Improve Your Chances
- Learn Basic English or French – Essential for work and communication.
- Be Available for Physical Work – Most unskilled jobs require strength and stamina.
- Target High-Demand Provinces – Such as Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Nova Scotia.
- Be Honest and Transparent – Avoid fake job offers or visa scams.
- Prepare Supporting Documents Early – Passport, police report, resume, and medical test.
Can Unskilled Workers Get Permanent Residency in Canada?
Yes, but you must meet certain conditions. After working in Canada for a while, you can apply for Permanent Residency (PR) through:
- Agri-Food Immigration Pilot
- Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
- Canadian Experience Class (after 1+ year of work)
- Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot
These programs reward workers who contribute to Canada’s economy consistently and legally.
Final Thoughts
Getting an unskilled job in Canada with visa sponsorship is a real and achievable path for foreigners looking to change their lives. With the right job, paperwork, and determination, you can move to Canada, earn decent income, and even build a path to permanent residency.
Canada doesn’t just need doctors and engineers—it needs everyday people who are ready to work hard and grow in a country that values dignity and diversity.
