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BUNAC Canadian Partner

SWAP

Applying

When is the earliest that I can travel to Canada?

Mid February and the latest you can enter Canada is 31 January the following year.

The complete application process takes approx 8 – 10 weeks and this includes the 6 weeks that the Canadian High Commission take to process the work authorisation application on the 2009 programme.
I’m 30 now but turn 31 soon can I still apply?
You must obtain the work authorisation whilst you are 30 but can enter Canada when you turn 31.
I’ve lived in the UK for 5 years but don’t have a British passport can I apply for Work Canada?
No. Sorry but we can only help UK passport holders you should contact the Canadian High Commission directly – www.canada.org
I’ve got a flight to Canada in 2 weeks can I get the work authorisation in this time or get it while I am in Canada?
No, you would have to be prepared to delay your trip or return to the UK for a while. There is no way to get the work authorisation issued in 2 weeks, the complete application takes approx 8 – 10 weeks. You must also be in the UK while the Canadian High Commission has your work authorisation application and enter Canada with your work authorisation letter.
Do a lot of people travel on their own?
Yes. If you are travelling on your own then you may want to consider taking a BUNAC group flight as you would be on the same flight as other BUNACers. Alternatively I would advise you to book your first couple of nights in a hostel, SWAP also have a great social programme which is a good opportunity to meet other like minded travellers. It can be scary travelling on your own but lots of people do it and there are many opportunities to make great friends once you are in Canada.
Where will I live?
Most people stay in a hostel for their first few nights in Canada then arrange long term accommodation once they know where they will be working. Hostels can be costly for long term stays so most people tend to look for a shared flat to move into or if you are working in a hotel or resort then your employer may have employer accommodation. The Canada Handbook has information on hostels in Toronto/Vancouver which are recommended for your initial stay and also offers advice on how to search for more long term work.

Visa

Do I need to have a medical to get the visa?
If you are planning to work with children, as a teacher, or in the healthcare or related industry then you will need a Canadian approved medical. The process for having a medical cannot be started until the Canadian High Commission have your work authorisation application. Please ensure that you inform BUNAC, in writing, of your need to have a medical.
Why do I have to remain in the UK for the visa application?
This is a requirement that the Canadian High Commission impose on applicants, as you are applying as a resident of the UK this is not something that they feel you should have problems in complying with.

Work

Can I change jobs whilst out there?
Yes, the open work authorisation is very flexible and you can change jobs whilst in Canada and work anywhere in Canada. There are no restrictions on how long you can work for one company so if you prefer you can work for the same company for the full 12 months.
Do I have to prearrange work?
No, you can job hunt on arrival in Canada, even if you do prearrange work this work authorisation is not restricted to that employer you can still change jobs when you get to Canada if you wish.
Do you help me find a job?
We are here to offer advice and support. Once you are on the programme you will receive a Canada Handbook which has useful tips on job hunting and has some good websites that you might want to look at. Once in Canada SWAP’s offices have job boards, computers and knowledgeable staff who can assist you with your job hunt. SWAP also help you to obtain your SIN (Social Insurance Number) which you will need for when you begin your work.
What kind of work do people do?
You can do almost everything on this work permit. A lot of people tend to do ‘casual work’ as this is relatively easy to find. Eg.working in a shop, restaurant, hotel however as the visa is for 12 months it is possible to find a more career related job (eg.if you are a qualified teacher you can get a teaching job out in Canada). During the winter season if you have an interest in skiing then the ski resorts are popular destinations to work as many of the employers in these resorts offer a ski pass as a perk of the job.
How long can I work for?
12 months. You can work as long or as short during this period as you wish. You can work for as many employers as you want during this time or if you would prefer you can stay and work for the same employer for the full 12 months.

Flights & Insurance

Do I have to take BUNAC’s insurance policy?
No, you can arrange your own insurance but we must see confirmation of your policy before your work authorisation is released to you. Your insurance must offer adequate cover for your stay in Canada. Eg.provide medical and baggage cover, cover you for working and include repatriation to the UK. We do have an information sheet that we can send to anyone who wish to arrange their own insurance policy.
Can I book a one way flight and book the return flight whilst I am away?
No, we need to see proof that you have an outward and homeward flight (departing North America) before we will release your work authorisation letter. As you are only on a temporary permit proof of departure from North America is a must.
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