I applied for a Software Developer role at this company and advanced past the first round of interviews. After that stage, HR reached out to ask me about my permanent residency status. I clarified that I hold a valid Canadian work permit, which makes me legally eligible to work in Canada.
This was disappointing because the job posting itself clearly stated:
"Please note: The successful candidate must be willing to work remotely within Canada and either be a Canadian Citizen or hold a valid Canadian Permanent Residency or Work Permit."
Despite meeting this stated requirement, I was later rejected solely because I do not hold permanent residency or citizenship.
In Canada, employers are allowed to require applicants to already be legally entitled to work (citizenship, PR, or valid work permit). However, rejecting a candidate who does have a valid work permit, solely because they are not a PR or citizen, has been considered by Canadian human rights tribunals to be discriminatory and potentially a violation of human rights legislation.
Companies should respect their own stated eligibility requirements and ensure their hiring practices align with Canadian human rights standards.
