Work permit acquisition for Canada is now within reach for Vietnamese tech talents working remotely for a Canadian employer. This reality is made possible through the Canada Engineering Launchpad (CEL) program.
Canada is a beacon for tech workers globally, offering an enviable work-life balance and a rich cultural tapestry. The country’s commitment to innovation is significant. Its high quality of life creates an irresistible draw for skilled tech professionals seeking new horizons.
At the heart of this opportunity lies the Canada Engineering Launchpad program. This innovative initiative eases the seamless relocation of tech professionals from Vietnam to Canada. It allows them to keep their current jobs with their employers.
BorderlessHR plays a crucial role in this process. Through our Employer of Record (EOR) services, we manage the entire relocation process under our Canadian entity. From work permit applications to payroll management, we guarantee a smooth transition, letting you focus on what you do best.
In the next sections, we’ll delve into the details of the CEL program. We’ll outline the steps for obtaining your Canadian work permit. We’ll give you insights into life in Canada as a remote tech talent.
Understanding the Canada Engineering Launchpad Program
The Canada Engineering Launchpad program operates under Canada’s Global Talent Stream (GTS). It offers a unique opportunity for engineering and remote tech talents working in Vietnam to move to Canada. This program enables your current Canadian employer to move you to Canada. Additionally, it lets you bring your family along. Under this program, you’ll be granted a work permit valid for 12 months. It is renewable annually as long as your employment continues. It’s important to note that this is a closed work permit, meaning you can only work while in Canada.
Benefits of Canada Work Permit as a Remote Tech Talent
1. Relocation Assistance: BorderlessHR manages the complex aspects of the immigration process, allowing you to focus on your relocation preparations.
2. Visa Facilitation: The program assists you in obtaining necessary work permits and appropriate visas for accompanying family members. The visa is valid for two years, enabling you to work and live in Canada.
3. Financial and Administrative Support: Assistance with Canadian payroll and tax compliance. Access to Canadian employment benefits, including Employment Insurance, and support for integration into the country.
5. Quality of Life: Canada consistently ranks among the top countries for quality of life. The 2021 Best Countries Report by U.S. News & World Report ranked Canada as the best country for quality of life.
6. Strong Tech Scene: Major Canadian cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal have robust tech sectors. According to CBRE’s 2021 Scoring Tech Talent report, Toronto ranks 4th in North America for tech talent.
7. Multicultural Environment: Statistics Canada reports that over 20% of Canada’s population is foreign-born, fostering a diverse and inclusive society. You’ll gain experience working in Canada’s multicultural professional environment.
8. Pathway to Permanent Residency: After one year in the program, you can apply for permanent residency.
9. Seamless Relocation: Move to Canada without disrupting your current job. BorderlessHR hires you into their Canadian entity. They handle the work visa process for you.
10. Professional Development: Join the program while continuing to focus on delivering exceptional work.
Eligibility Requirements for the Canada Work Permit (the CEL program)
You must be a Software Engineer, Data Scientist, QA Engineer, Product Manager, or UI/UX Designer.
You must be earning at least USD 60,000 annually (before taxes) from a single employer.
You should be working remotely for a single employer.
Document Checklist for the Canada Work Permit Application
Proof of Employment: A detailed letter from your employer outlining job responsibilities and tenure.
Educational Qualifications: Copies of degree certificates and transcripts.
Valid Passport: Make sure it’s valid for at least six months beyond your planned stay.
Proof of Funds: Show that you can support yourself and your family in Canada.
Medical Examination Results: A completed medical examination from an approved physician or hospital.
Police Clearance Certificate: A clean criminal record check from relevant authorities.
Financial Considerations and Responsibilities
Applicant Costs:
Visa Application Fees:
Biometrics fee: CAD 85 for an individual, CAD 170 for a family
Work Permit fee: CAD 155 for the primary applicant.
Spouse Open Work Permit fee (if applicable): CAD 255
Relocation Expenses: You are responsible for housing, transportation, and personal expenses.
Employer Responsibilities:
Visa Processing Fee: A one-time fee of $1000
Refundable Salary Advance: Equivalent to one month’s salary, to be provided to the employee upon arrival in Canada.
Monthly Payroll Administration Costs: 1.8% of the employee’s gross annual salary.
Employment Structure Changes
Upon relocation to Canada, several changes occur in the employment structure:
Employment Status: You become an employee of BorderlessHR in Canada while continuing to work for your original employer.
Salary Processing: Your original employer transfers the salary to BorderlessHR, which then processes and distributes it to you.
Payroll Deductions: The 1.8% monthly fee covers various Canadian employment-related expenses. These expenses include income tax deductions, Employment Insurance (EI) contributions, Canada Pension Plan (CPP) contributions, and other mandatory employment benefits.
The Responsibilities of Your Employer
As part of the program, employers need to fulfill specific requirements for their employees by providing required documents and paying the necessary fees as broken down below:
Financial Requirements of Your Employer
These are three financial requirements you need to fulfill as an employer.
Visa Processing Fee: A one-time visa processing fee of $1000. It covers the processing of work permits for the employee being relocated to Canada under the program.
Refundable Salary Advance: A one-month refundable salary advance to the employee is required as part of the application process. This advance ensures that employees have financial support upon their arrival in Canada. It helps them cover their first expenses before receiving their regular salary. For whatever reason, this advance payment will be refunded once the contract ends.
Monthly Payroll Administration Costs: A monthly 1.8% fee of the employee’s gross annual pay is required. This fee covers payroll, admin, unemployment insurance, other government costs, and employee benefits.
Documents You Need to Have
Proof of Eligibility: You must provide documentation. It should show your unique and specialized skills. These skills must align with the position being requested by the employer.
Employment Contract: A detailed employment contract is typically required for the application process. It outlines the terms of the position, salary, benefits, and responsibilities.
Educational Qualifications: Copies of educational certificates, degrees, or diplomas to verify your qualifications for the specialized position.
Identification Documents: Valid identification documents like a passport or other government-issued ID for verification purposes.
What Changes for You As An Employee
You will continue working with your employer as you already do, and there will be no changes to your responsibilities. Nevertheless, a few things will change.
Here are some changes to expect:
You will be hired as a BorderlessHR employee in Canada. This will be only on paper. You will still work for your employer.
Your monthly salaries will be paid to BorderlessHR; we will then pay them to you.
The 1.8% monthly fee your employer pays us will be used to pay taxes, benefits, unemployment insurance, and other government fees.
Relocation Timeline
The relocation process spans 3-5 months. During this period, you can continue your current remote work arrangements. The timeline varies based on individual circumstances and application processing times.
When to Consider Moving to Canada
Timing is everything when considering a move to Canada through the Engineering Launchpad program. Several factors indicate it’s the right moment to take this step. You want improved work-life balance. You want to give your family and children new experiences and a high quality of life. You could be ready to join a global tech community. An interest in gaining international exposure and working in diverse environments could be a factor. You have long-term aspirations for permanent residency or citizenship.
Life in Canada – What to Expect
Many Vietnamese move to Canada seeking a better life for themselves and their children. Canada offers excellent healthcare, lower corruption, lower crime rates, and good education. The political, economic, and educational conditions in Canada are more advanced compared to Vietnam. The fact that French is an official language in Canada is also beneficial for many Vietnamese who speak French.
Canada experiences quite harsh winters are challenging for Vietnamese people accustomed to hot climates year-round. Winter temperatures can drop to -40 degrees in some regions. But, western areas like British Columbia, Vancouver, and Victoria have milder and more adaptable climates. Winters there are not as cold as in the northern regions. Spring, summer, and autumn climates are pleasant for Vietnamese residents.
English is the primary language in most of Canada. Fluency in English will help avoid language barriers when studying, working, and settling in Canada. Still, in Montreal and Quebec, French is the main language. Having good French skills is a good advantage in these areas.
Major cities like Toronto and Vancouver are popular. Toronto, Canada’s financial capital, offers high-quality urban living. Vancouver has a milder climate and a bustling port. These attract many people. Vancouver’s climate is like Vietnam’s summer climate. The city’s focus on IT and entertainment industries is also a major attraction.
Adapting to a new country brings its challenges. These include harsh winters and initial hurdles. Many Vietnamese find that Canada’s combination of economic opportunities, quality of life, and long-term settlement makes it an attractive destination. It is especially appealing for tech professionals seeking growth and a better future.
Wrapping Up
The Canada Engineering Launchpad program offers Vietnamese tech professionals an opportunity to advance their careers in Canada. This program lets you be closer to your employer and colleagues in Canada. You will continue to work on your current company projects. Although you’ll officially be a BorderlessHR employee in Canada, the program ensures your work remains consistent with your current role. This arrangement provides the added satisfaction of living in a country you love while maintaining professional continuity. The program opens doors to new experiences and opportunities for you.
To learn more about getting started on this exciting journey, don’t hesitate to contact us here directly.
