Dishwasher jobs in Canada with visa sponsorship offer a legal entry pathway through an employer-backed LMIA and work permit. With hourly wages between CAD 14–18, thousands of openings across Ontario, British Columbia, and Alberta, and low education requirements, this role is one of the fastest ways to enter Canada’s hospitality sector.
Why Are Dishwasher Jobs in Canada in High Demand?
Canada’s hospitality industry is expanding due to population growth, tourism recovery, and labor shortages. According to Statistics Canada, food services and accommodation continue to report worker gaps in multiple provinces.
Restaurants, hotels, hospitals, and catering businesses rely on dishwashers to maintain hygiene standards under provincial food safety laws. In cities like Toronto and Vancouver, commercial kitchens operate 10–16 hours daily, creating consistent demand.
Key Reasons for Demand:
- Ongoing labor shortages in food services
- High turnover in entry-level kitchen roles
- Strict sanitation requirements
- Growth in quick-service and delivery-focused restaurants
What Is the Salary for Dishwasher Jobs in Canada?
Dishwasher wages vary by province, employer size, and experience level.
Average Salary (Estimates)
- Hourly Wage: CAD 14–18
- Monthly Income: CAD 2,200–2,800 (full-time)
- Annual Salary: CAD 30,000–36,000
In our experience working with hospitality employers near Downtown Toronto and Scarborough, candidates with 1–2 years of kitchen experience often receive CAD 1–2 above minimum wage.
Additional Benefits
- Free or discounted staff meals
- Paid overtime (after 44 hours/week in Ontario)
- Health benefits (full-time roles)
- Uniforms provided
- Shared accommodation support (select employers)
How Does Visa Sponsorship Work for Dishwasher Jobs?
To work legally, foreign applicants need a Canadian employer willing to sponsor them under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP).
Step-by-Step Immigration Process
- Job Offer from a Canadian employer
- Employer applies for LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment)
- Positive LMIA approval
- Apply for a work permit through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
- Travel to Canada and begin employment
Processing times range between 8–16 weeks, depending on the country of application.
What Are the Main Job Responsibilities?
Dishwashers are responsible for maintaining cleanliness and supporting kitchen operations.
Core Duties
- Washing dishes, pots, and utensils using industrial machines
- Maintaining sanitation standards
- Disposing of garbage properly
- Assisting kitchen staff with basic prep tasks
- Cleaning floors and food preparation areas
Required Skills
- Physical stamina (standing 6–8 hours)
- Time management
- Basic English or French
- Knowledge of food safety standards
A Food Handler Certificate improves hiring chances, especially in provinces like Ontario and British Columbia.
Where Are the Best Provinces for Dishwasher Jobs?
Ontario
Ontario leads hiring due to dense urban centers like Toronto and Ottawa. The Greater Toronto Area (GTA) has thousands of restaurants and hotel chains.
British Columbia
Vancouver’s tourism industry drives seasonal and year-round demand.
Alberta
Cities like Calgary and Edmonton offer competitive wages due to workforce shortages.
Can International Students Apply for Dishwasher Jobs?
Yes. Students with valid study permits can work:
- 20 hours/week during semesters
- Full-time during academic breaks
Dishwashing roles are popular among students because of evening and weekend shifts.
How to Apply for Dishwasher Jobs in Canada with Visa Sponsorship?
1. Search Official Platforms
Use government-approved portals like:
- Job Bank Canada
- Indeed
Always confirm the employer mentions LMIA support.
2. Prepare a Strong Resume
Highlight:
- Kitchen or restaurant experience
- Cleaning and hygiene knowledge
- Teamwork examples
- Ability to work long shifts
3. Prepare for Interview
Most interviews are short (15–20 minutes) and focus on reliability and communication.
What Are the Immigration Requirements?
To qualify, applicants must meet:
- Valid passport
- Clean criminal record
- Medical examination clearance
- Basic language ability
- Employer-backed LMIA
According to Government of Canada immigration guidelines, failure to meet admissibility requirements can result in refusal.
Is Dishwasher Work a Pathway to Permanent Residency?
Yes, in some cases.
After gaining Canadian work experience (usually 12 months full-time), workers may qualify for programs like:
- Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP)
- Canadian Experience Class (if eligible)
This makes dishwashing a strategic entry-level pathway rather than just a temporary job.
Conclusion
Dishwasher jobs in Canada with visa sponsorship are the unsung heroes of the immigration system. They require no degree, no perfect English, and no years of corporate experience just reliability and a willingness to work. In 2026, with updated minimum wages reaching CAD 18 per hour in provinces like Ontario and British Columbia, these roles offer more than just a paycheck. They offer a foothold.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does LMIA approval take?
LMIA processing typically takes 8–12 weeks, depending on the employer and province.
Is experience required for dishwasher jobs?
Not mandatory, but 6–12 months of kitchen work increases hiring chances.
Can I switch employers after arriving?
Yes, but you must apply for a new work permit if the employer changes.
Do employers provide accommodation?
Some rural or small-town employers provide shared housing support.
