Canada to Host Free International Recruitment Event in Paris for 12 Occupations
The Government of Canada has announced a targeted international recruitment event scheduled for March 20 and 21, 2026, in Paris, France.
The event is organized by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and aims to connect qualified foreign workers with Canadian employers facing labour shortages in specific technical and industrial occupations.
This is a recruitment initiative — not a new immigration program. Attending the event does not guarantee a job offer or permanent residence. However, selected candidates will have direct access to employers actively hiring.
Who Is Organizing the Event?
The event is hosted by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), the federal department responsible for managing Canada’s immigration system.
Official IRCC website:
👉 https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship.html
Selected candidates will:
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Participate in scheduled interviews with Canadian employers
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Receive information about credential recognition
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Learn about immigration pathways
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Access settlement guidance resources
There are no registration or participation fees. Applications must be submitted through the official platform used by IRCC.
Event Details
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Dates: March 20–21, 2026
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Location: Paris, France
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Format: In-person interviews and employer meetings
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Cost: Free
The exact venue will be shared only with selected applicants.
If you are applying from outside Europe, you should carefully consider travel costs and visa requirements before submitting your application.
Occupations Included in the Recruitment Event
Canadian employers are recruiting for the following 12 occupation categories:
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Systems engineers (aerospace, mechanical, electrical specializations)
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Metallurgical and materials engineers
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Industrial and manufacturing engineers
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Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) and synthetic aperture radar (SAR) systems engineers
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Pilots and flight engineers
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Aircraft assemblers, mechanics, technicians, inspectors
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Industrial millwrights and mechanics
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Welders, machinists, machine operators
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Tool and die makers
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Sheet metal workers
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Non-destructive testers
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Computer systems developers and programmers
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Manufacturing and assembly supervisors
This list includes both university-trained engineers and skilled trades professionals.
If your occupation is not included, this specific event may not apply to you.
Eligibility Requirements
To apply, candidates must have:
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Relevant work experience in one of the listed occupations
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Proficiency in English or French
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An updated professional résumé
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Educational credentials or trade certifications
IRCC has not published a strict minimum years-of-experience requirement. However, applicants with clear, verifiable experience and recognized qualifications are more likely to be selected.
Because the event is held in Paris, French-speaking candidates may benefit from additional employment and immigration pathways. Canada continues to increase Francophone immigration targets outside Quebec.
More information about Francophone immigration:
👉 https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/immigrate-canada/francophone-immigration.html
Does This Event Lead to Permanent Residence?
The recruitment event itself does not grant permanent residence.
However, a valid job offer may support immigration pathways such as:
Express Entry system:
👉 https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/immigrate-canada/express-entry.html
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP):
👉 https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/immigrate-canada/provincial-nominees.html
Under Express Entry, a qualifying job offer may increase Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points. A provincial nomination can significantly improve selection chances.
Before making decisions, review official program requirements carefully.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted through the official IRCC recruitment event page via the VidCruiter platform.
Official recruitment event page:
👉 (Applicants should visit the IRCC website and navigate to International Recruitment Events section.)
General steps:
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Visit the official IRCC recruitment page
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Create or log into a VidCruiter account
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Upload your résumé
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Upload supporting documents (education, certifications, licenses)
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Submit your application
IRCC has indicated that space is limited and applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.
Incomplete applications may not be considered.
Important Considerations
Before applying, understand the following:
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Selection is competitive
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A job offer is not guaranteed
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Immigration approval is separate from employment
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Some occupations may require provincial licensing
This recruitment event should be viewed as an employment opportunity — not a shortcut to permanent residence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the event free?
Yes. IRCC confirms there are no application or attendance fees. Be cautious of third parties requesting payment.
Can skilled trades apply?
Yes, if their occupation is listed (for example welders, machinists, millwrights).
Does attending guarantee PR?
No. Immigration depends on meeting program criteria.
Do I need French?
English or French is required. French proficiency may provide additional advantages under Francophone immigration initiatives.
Reality Check
This recruitment event may benefit professionals whose occupations match the listed categories and who are prepared for international hiring processes.
It may not be suitable for:
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Applicants without relevant experience
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Individuals expecting automatic immigration approval
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Those unable to travel to Paris
For accurate and updated information, always rely on official Government of Canada sources.
IRCC Official Website:
👉 https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship.html
