CRA Jobs in Canada: How to Apply and Requirements

Looking for work at the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA)? 

There are many roles, from impact-making positions in technology, accounting, taxation, to customer service, audit, and beyond. 

Understanding how to apply and what CRA requires will help you navigate the process and increase your chances of being hired.

What types of jobs does the CRA offer?

The CRA offers a variety of jobs, including permanent, term, part-time, temporary, and student positions. 

Job categories include finance and accounting, technology, audit, policy development, communications, human resources, data analytics, and more. 

There are also student and graduate hiring programs.

The CRA also participates in employment equity, giving special attention to underrepresented groups, veterans, and Indigenous persons. 

What are the basic eligibility requirements for CRA jobs?

To apply for a CRA job, you must meet basic requirements:

1. You must be legally allowed to work in Canada. That includes having appropriate citizenship, residency, or a work permit.
2. You must be of the minimum age in your province to work. Some student positions have specific age requirements.
3. You must have the required education, experience, or both, depending on the job. Many roles require at least a secondary school diploma; some require a college diploma, a university degree, or specialized credentials.
4. For many roles, there is a security screening process. This includes verification of identification, references, criminal record check, and sometimes credit checks.

How do you create a CRA candidate profile?

Creating a candidate profile is the first formal step:

1. Visit the Careers at CRA section of Canada.ca and click “Sign in or register” to create a candidate profile. 
2. Choose your candidate type: General Public, Student, or CRA Employee / CRA Student / Federal Public Service Employee. Use the correct one — picking incorrectly may cause you to be screened out.
3. Fill out the sections: personal data, contact info, education, and work experience. You can attach education documents. Keep your profile up to date.

How do you apply for specific CRA jobs?

Once you have a candidate profile,

1. Search open CRA job opportunities on the CRA careers site. Use filters for job types, location, student jobs, etc. 
2. Read the job posting carefully. Note the Statement of Merit Criteria, essential qualifications, language requirements, assets (optional qualifications), and closing date.
3. Follow the instructions under the job posting: click “Apply,” complete application sections, and attach required documents (transcripts, resume, proof of education or credentials).

Are there any special requirements or screening steps?

Yes. Beyond basic eligibility, CRA uses several screening and assessment steps:

1. Verification of education credentials and certificates if required.
2. Reference checks and sometimes reliability or security checks. Some roles require criminal record checks. (“Before you apply” CRA)
3. For some positions, language proficiency in both official languages (English and French) may be required.
4. Student positions may have additional eligibility: full-time enrollment, enrolment documents, acceptable field of study, etc.

What documentation do you need when applying?

You will usually need:

1. A resume listing your education, work experience, and relevant skills
2. Proof of education (transcripts, diplomas)
3. References, if requested
4. Identification documents
5. For students: proof of enrolment (transcripts, registrar letter)
6. If applying for positions with specific technical or specialized requirements: proof of credentials or licenses

What are CRA’s job application tips and best practices?

To improve chances:

1. Keep your candidate profile complete and current. Missing information may disqualify your application.
2. Use CRA’s job alerts to get notifications for roles matching your skills or preferred areas.
3. Match your resume and other documents to the essential qualifications in the job posting. Highlight how you meet them with specifics.
4. Be aware of deadlines — applications will not be accepted after that date.

For student jobs, apply early and ensure enrollment status is clear.