Thousands of immigrants travel to Canada every year to work. Vancouver, with a booming economy and established communities of minorities, is one of the largest centres for immigrant labour.

There are various rules and regulations that govern how and where immigrants can enter the country to work. We've put together links and information that will help anyone thinking of coming to Vancouver for work.

Temporary Work Visas

Before the Canadian government will award a temporary work visa, you must be offered a job from an employer in Canada (some professions are exempt), HRSDC must perform a "labour market opinion" on your position and then you must apply for the work permit.

Immigrating as a Skilled Worker

The regulations surrounding application as a skilled worker aren't as complex as other application classifications.

If you are coming to Canada and already have a degree or diploma, you will need to have these credentials assessed to see if they are applicable to Canadian standards. For information on how to upgrade these credentials to bring them to acceptable standards, click here.

To be accepted as a "skilled worker", you must meet minimum work experience requirements, prove that you have the funds needed to relocate and establish yourself in Canada and earn enough points in the government's six selection factors, which include education, age, experience, employment prospects and familial adaptability.

Citizenship and Immigration Canada has an online program that acts as a self assessment tool, perfect to see it apply is worth the time and money.