Getting a job before moving to Canada or moving to Canada to get a job?
I am currently living and working in Europe and planning to relocate to Canada. I have authorization to work in Canada through my permanent residency, and I have both university degrees and professional experience abroad.
From the perspective of a Canadian employer, the fact that I am currently living outside Canada may be a red flag. Based on previous advice, I have removed my address from my CV and included both my European and Canadian phone numbers (the Canadian number is through Fongo). The only obvious indicators that I am currently abroad are my current job and my educational background. I also try to make it clear on my motivation letter and CV headline that I am relocating to Canada and have PR.
Recently, an HR representative contacted me to schedule an onsite interview a few days later. Since travelling to Canada on such short notice is difficult for me—I would realistically need a week or two to organize the trip—I asked whether the first interview could be conducted virtually. I would be completely willing to travel for subsequent stages if I progress past the first interview (although I don't yet know how many interview rounds there will be at this workplace). I had a feeling that the HR was surprised that I am not physically present, and I am afraid this would be a deal-braker. Although he will ask whether I could have an interview virtually.
People often say that one should secure a job before moving to Canada, but what if being physically present is actually mandatory during interview stages to get the job in the first place? How do people in this situation usually handle it, and how flexible are Canadian employers when it comes to interviewing candidates who are still abroad?