This is general information, not legal or immigration advice. Rules change and every case is different — always confirm on the official Government of Canada pages linked below, or with a licensed professional of your choosing.
First, the conditions
You cannot start a job just because you have made a refugee claim. Before working, two things need to be in place:
- A work permit (or other authorization to work). Most refugee claimants apply for an open work permit — "open" means it is not tied to one employer, so you can work for almost any employer in Canada. The official page explains who can apply and how: Work or study while your claim is processed (IRCC).
- A Social Insurance Number (SIN). Once you have your work permit, apply for a SIN — employers need it to pay you legally. It's free, from Service Canada: Apply for a SIN.
If both are in place, you can apply to jobs like anyone else — including every listing on this site.
What an open work permit lets you do
- Work for nearly any employer, anywhere in Canada — you are not locked to one company.
- Change jobs without asking permission from anyone.
- Work in most industries. A small number of jobs (some involving children, health care, or certain designated employers) can carry conditions — the conditions are printed on your permit, so read it.
Your rights on the job — the same as everyone's
Employment law in Canada does not have a separate, weaker tier for refugees. If you are legally working, these apply to you in full:
- Minimum wage. Each province sets one, and every listing on this site shows the wage so you can compare.
- Pay for all hours worked, including overtime rules where they apply.
- A safe workplace. You have the right to refuse work that is unsafe, without being fired for it.
- No document confiscation. No employer may keep your passport, permit, or other identity documents. Ever.
Provincial employment standards offices handle complaints — and they take them from workers of any status, in many languages.
Warning signs to walk away from
- Anyone charging you money for a job offer, an interview, or "processing." Legitimate hiring is free for workers.
- An employer who wants to pay only in cash "off the books," or who asks to hold your documents.
- Promises about your refugee claim or future status in exchange for work. An employer has no power over your claim.
Where to go next
- IRCC — work permits for claimants
- Service Canada — apply for a SIN
- Free settlement services near you — free job-search help and language classes
- Browse entry-friendly openings on this site — wages always shown