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
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.
