Work in Vancouver
One of the more popular destinations for our IEP Work Canada participants is Vancouver. It’s easy to see why, Vancouver offers a great sampling of what the rest of Canada has to offer all in the safety of a big city with plenty of opportunities!
There is plenty to do in Vancouver and in the surrounding areas, it is just a few hours’ drive from Whistler or a ferry ride away from Vancouver Island. Vancouver is ranked as one of the best cities in North America to live. People are often drawn to the scenic setting of the city, the diversity, food culture and much more.
What do you need to work in Canada?
For Australians, a visa is required to be able to live and work anywhere in Canada. The Canadian Working Holiday visa allows eligible Australian passport holders to work and travel in Canada for up to 24 months. IEP can help with all aspects of your visa application to get you over to Vancouver faster and easier. IEP’s Work Canada program will help you with:
- Applying for your visa
- Planning your trip
- Orientation and two nights’ accommodation on arrival in Vancouver
- Ongoing support during your stay in Canada
Where do you start?
The first thing you’ll want to do when you arrive is get organised! Our Canadian office can help you organise a tax number, bank account and get oriented when you arrive. The next things to organise will be work and accommodation!
How to find work in Vancouver
Vancouver has a large tourism industry, looking for work in any of the city attractions is always a great start. There is also work available in hospitality, retail, administration and even career related work. Vancouver is one of Canada’s largest cities with a thriving economy so there is plenty on offer, it all depends on your interests and experience.
Using our Canadian office and resources that come with the Work Canada program makes finding work easy. You will have access to exclusive job listings, an online members’ lounge and will be regularly updated on the availability of work during your time in Vancouver. You can even head down to our Vancouver office to use their computers, internet and phones while you get yourself sorted in your new home. Our staff are always there to provide support and guidance in your job search. They are the local experts and will be able to help you find work!
One important thing you can do to prepare for a Vancouver job hunt is to make yourself a Canadian style resume. This is something we can help you with before you even leave NZ so you hit the ground running!
How to find accommodation
This will likely be easier to do once you arrive in Vancouver, that way you can visit different rental options and get a feel for the area and the people you might be living with. Landlords and property managers will be more enthusiastic if you are in the country and have a Canadian phone number, it makes everything a lot easier. Most rentals start on the 1st or 15th of the month so those are good times to look for rentals.
Like any city, there are a range of suburbs that each offer something different from high-rise living to more relaxed, suburban areas. Our Canadian office are again a great resource when you’re looking for accommodation and can give you advice on different areas and options around Vancouver when you arrive.
Tips for living in Vancouver
- Don’t expect to be able to catch an Uber, this won’t be available until at least October 2017! You’ll be looking at either a taxi or using car sharing services instead. Vancouver also has a great transport system that includes buses, ferries and the SkyTrain. Get yourself a compass card for public transport at local shops or vending machines! Check out www.compass.ca for more information.
- Vancouver is a destination city with people travelling there for cycling, golf, hiking, winter sports and more. You won’t be at a loss for things to do in your time off!
- The food scene in Vancouver is rapidly expanding, the city has a lot to offer. Some popular options include any and all of the Asian fusion on offer as well as some great brunch spots and food trucks throughout the city.
- Don’t forget to tip your servers! You’ll want to tip wait staff 15-20% and bar staff $1 per drink. Make sure you leave a little something for taxi drivers, bell hops etc. as well!
Do you have questions about livng and working in Canada?
If you have some questions about planning your gap year to Canada just give us a call on 1300 797 702, come to a free Canada information evening or flick us a message here.