Laundry Attendant Jobs in Canada with Work Permit

Laundry attendant jobs in Canada are available in hotels, hospitals, large laundromats, and residential care facilities. For foreign workers, these positions can offer entry into the Canadian workforce. Obtaining a legal work permit for this role is possible but follows a specific and regulated process through Canada’s Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP).

Understanding the Work Permit Pathway

To work as a laundry attendant in Canada, you need a closed work permit. This requires a full-time job offer from a Canadian employer who has obtained a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). The LMIA proves that the employer needs a foreign worker because no Canadian citizen or permanent resident is available for the job.

Can You Get an LMIA for a Laundry Attendant Job?

Yes, it is possible, but it is challenging and more likely under certain conditions:

1. Location is Key: Employers in remote areas, smaller towns, or regions with low unemployment have a better chance of getting a positive LMIA. It is very difficult for a hotel in downtown Toronto or Vancouver to prove they can’t find a laundry attendant locally.

2. Industry Demand: The highest demand is in industries that operate 24/7 and have large, on-site laundry facilities:

   • Large Hotels and Resorts in tourist or remote areas.

   • Hospitals and Long-Term Care Homes.

   • Industrial Laundry Services that cater to multiple businesses.

3. Employer Must Prove Recruitment Efforts: The employer must advertise the job in Canada for at least one month and show that no suitable Canadian applicant was found.

Job Role and Requirements

A laundry attendant’s duties typically include:

• Operating industrial washers and dryers.

• Sorting, folding, and ironing linens and garments.

• Applying stain treatments.

• Maintaining cleanliness of the laundry area.

• Tracking inventory of linens.

Basic Requirements:

• No formal education required, but a high school diploma is often preferred.

• Physical stamina to stand for long periods and lift heavy baskets.

• Attention to detail.

• Reliability and ability to work shifts (including evenings/weekends).

• On-the-job training is usually provided.

Step-by-Step Process to Get Hired

Step 1: Find an Employer with an LMIA

This is the most difficult step. You cannot apply for an LMIA yourself.

• How to Search: Look for Canadian recruitment agencies that specialize in TFWP placements for the hospitality or healthcare sectors. Some employers may post jobs on sites like Canada Job Bank, Indeed.ca, or hospitality-specific job boards, sometimes stating “LMIA support available” for remote locations.

• Direct Applications: Research and apply directly to large hotel chains (e.g., Fairmont, Marriott) with properties in remote locations (e.g., Banff, Jasper, Whistler, Niagara region) or to regional hospitals.

Step 2: Employer Obtains a Positive LMIA

The employer applies for the LMIA from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC). If approved, they receive a positive LMIA number.

Step 3: You Receive a Formal Job Offer

The employer provides you with:

• A signed employment contract detailing wages, hours, and job duties.

• A copy of the positive LMIA.

Step 4: You Apply for the Work Permit

With these documents, you apply to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for a closed work permit. You will need:

• Passport.

• Job offer and LMIA number.

• Proof of qualifications (if any).

• Police clearance certificate.

• Medical exam (may be required).

• Proof of sufficient funds for initial setup.

Step 5: Biometrics and Approval

You will give your biometrics (fingerprints and photo). If approved, you receive a work permit tied specifically to that employer and location.

Important Realities and Considerations

• Closed Work Permit: You can only work for the employer named on your permit. You cannot switch jobs without a new LMIA and work permit.

• Duration: Permits for low-skilled positions are typically valid for 1-2 years and may be renewed, but the employer must apply for a new LMIA.

• Wages: You must be paid at least the prevailing wage for laundry attendants in that province. This is usually slightly above minimum wage, around CAD $17 – $22 per hour.

• Pathway to Permanent Residency (PR)? This job is classified under NOC 65310 (Laundry attendants). It is considered a low-skilled occupation. While it provides Canadian work experience, it does not directly qualify for the Express Entry (Federal Skilled Worker or Canadian Experience Class) programs. However, it could be a stepping stone. After gaining experience, you might move into a supervisory role (e.g., Laundry Supervisor, NOC 62020) which is a skilled occupation, or you might be nominated by a province under a specific stream for in-demand occupations.

A Viable Alternative: The Seasonal Hotel Worker Route

Many large hotels in resort towns (like Banff or Whistler) hire seasonal staff for various roles, including laundry, with LMIA support. These are often seen as “entry” positions, and hard work can sometimes lead to being kept on for other roles.

Critical Warnings About Scams

• Never Pay for an LMIA or Job Offer: It is illegal for an employer or agent to sell an LMIA. You should only pay reasonable fees to a licensed immigration consultant (RCIC) or lawyer for application assistance, not for the job itself.

• Verify the Employer: Research the company. A legitimate business will have a Canadian address, phone number, and online presence.

• Beware of “Guarantees”: No one can guarantee a work permit approval. The final decision is made by IRCC officers.

Final Practical Advice

1. Target the Right Locations: Focus your job search on smaller cities, remote resorts, or towns in provinces like Alberta, British Columbia (interior), Manitoba, and Saskatchewan.

2. Use Reputable Recruiters: Work with recruitment agencies that are transparent about the TFWP process and have positive reviews from past workers.

3. Start Early: The LMIA and work permit process can take 6-10 months. Begin your search well in advance.

4. Prepare for Canadian Winters: If hired in a remote or northern location, be ready for cold weather and a different lifestyle.

5. Check Official Resources: Always confirm information on the official Government of Canada websites for IRCC and ESDC.

Laundry Attendant Jobs in Canada with Work Permit: Laundry attendant jobs can be a legitimate pathway to work in Canada through the TFWP, especially in industries and locations facing genuine labour shortages. Success requires finding an employer willing to undertake the LMIA process, having patience for the government processing times, and being absolutely vigilant against fraud. This role can serve as a foundation for building a future in Canada.