The Canadian resume format, with a free builder
Canadian employers expect a short, plain resume: Letter-size paper, no photo, no date of birth. This page covers what to include, then hands you the templates to write it in.
The Canadian format at a glance
Letter paper, usually one or two pages, without a photo, birth date or marital status. Use the language of the posting; French is common in Quebec. Describe relevant achievements, most recent experience first.
Paper
Letter
Photo
No photo
Personal details
No date of birth or nationality
Length
One page, or two when they earn their place
- A short summary, then your work history with dates, most recent first
- The skills that match the posting, near the top where they are read
- Results with numbers: how much, how many, how fast
- Education and certifications, as far as they serve the role
- A photo — Canadian employers do not expect one
- Date of birth, marital status and nationality
- Salary expectations, reasons for leaving and references
Templates that follow the Canadian format
Letter paper, no photo and quiet type: these designs are ordered for Canada.
Canadian resume questions
Does a Canadian resume need a photo?
No. Photos, date of birth and nationality are left off Canadian resumes to avoid discrimination. Add one only if an employer asks for it.
Is it called a resume or a CV in Canada?
Both are understood. “Resume” is the usual word in English Canada; in Quebec people say CV. Recruiters read either.
Should a Canadian resume be in English or French?
Use the language of the job posting. In Quebec, French is common and a French version is often expected; elsewhere English is the default.
How long should a Canadian resume be?
One page early in a career, two for most people. Recruiters skim, so cut anything that does not support the application.
Ready to make your next application?
Open a template and start typing. The first PDF is free, and so are the ones after it.
