Canadian work can look familiar at first, but pay language, contracts, deductions, benefits, vacation, and references often differ from what newcomers expect. Learn the basics before comparing salary offers or planning a career move.
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Job types and offer letters
Canadian jobs can be full-time, part-time, temporary, permanent, seasonal, contract, or casual. An offer letter or employment agreement should explain role, pay, start date, hours, reporting line, probation, benefits, and important conditions.
- Full-time
- Part-time
- Permanent
- Temporary
- Probation
- Offer letter
Gross pay versus net pay
Gross pay is your pay before deductions. Net pay is what lands in your bank account. Paycheques may include income tax, CPP, EI, benefits, vacation pay treatment, and other deductions depending on role and province.
- Gross pay
- Net pay
- Income tax
- CPP
- EI
- Benefits
Getting paid
Employers often pay by direct deposit every week, every two weeks, twice a month, or monthly. You may be asked for a void cheque or direct deposit form from your chequing account.
- Direct deposit
- Void cheque
- Pay period
- Pay stub
- Bank details
Rules, taxes, and documents
Employment standards are provincial or federal depending on the job. Keep pay stubs, contracts, ROEs, and T4 slips. A T4 is a tax slip used for your annual tax return.
- Employment standards
- Vacation pay
- Overtime basics
- Notice periods
- T4 slips
- CRA account
Beginner definitions
T4 slip
A tax slip from an employer showing employment income and deductions for a tax year.
CPP
Canada Pension Plan contributions deducted from many paycheques.
EI
Employment Insurance contributions deducted from many paycheques.
Void cheque
A document showing bank details for direct deposit or automatic payments.
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FAQ
Is net pay the same as salary?+
No. Salary is often discussed gross. Net pay is after deductions.
What is a T4?+
A T4 is an employer tax slip used for your tax return.
Do employment rules vary by province?+
Yes. Employment standards can vary by province and by whether the job is federally regulated.
Important disclaimer
This guide provides practical information, not legal, immigration, tax, healthcare, or financial advice. Rules, offers, eligibility, fees, and provider conditions can change. Always verify important decisions with official sources or the provider before applying, contributing, signing, or relying on a deadline.