Resume templates for Canada
In English-speaking Canada, you apply with a resume: one or two pages on Letter-size paper, focused on results, with Canadian spelling and no photo or personal details. It is close to a US resume, but Canadian employers are often comfortable with two pages, and they value volunteer work, co-op terms and community involvement.
Most large Canadian employers screen applications with an applicant tracking system (ATS), so the single-column templates below are the safest choice for online applications. Two-column layouts suit resumes you email or hand over. Each one works on Letter (switch paper size with one click if a template opens on A4). Edit free online, then download a PDF and an editable Word file, with a matching cover letter.
Free to edit online. US$12 (about C$17) one-off to download, with no subscription.
What Canadian employers expect
- Length
- One page for students and early-career applicants; two pages for most experienced professionals.
- Letter paper and Canadian spelling
- Use 8.5 × 11 inch Letter paper. Spell the Canadian way: colour, centre, behaviour, but organize and program.
- No photo or personal details
- Leave out your photo, date of birth, marital status, religion and nationality. Human rights laws mean employers shouldn’t select on these, and most prefer not to see them.
- References
- Don’t list references on the resume. Keep a separate page with two or three ready to send when asked.
- Work status
- If it could be unclear, add a line such as “Permanent resident” or “Open work permit valid until 2028”.
- Volunteering and co-op
- Volunteer roles, co-op terms and community work count as real experience in Canada. Give them their own section with results.
Templates that suit Canadian applications
A safe single-column layout for nurses and health professionals, and for large employers that screen online.
For college and university students: education first, with room for co-op terms.
Single-column and ATS-friendly, for IT, cloud and cyber-security roles.
Shows promotions and contracts at a glance, for software developers.
Organized and systematic, for project managers with a PMP.
A calm, orderly layout for CPAs, bookkeepers and payroll professionals.
Strong structure for HR and recruitment, with room for your CHRP or CHRL.
Clear sections for your teaching certification and classroom experience.
Certifications up front, for Red Seal tradespeople and technicians.
Warm and personable, for sales, account management and customer service.
Crisp and outcome-focused, for consulting, policy and advisory roles.
A modern all-rounder for marketing, communications and office roles.