The upcoming FIFA World Cup in North America is expected to generate a wide range of temporary and gig work opportunities in its Canadian host cities, Toronto and Vancouver.

The tournament, scheduled from mid-June to mid-July, will require significant staffing to support venues, fan zones, security operations, hospitality services, and related infrastructure.

Employers such as staffing agencies and local businesses are already recruiting for roles including bartenders, bussers, security staff, and venue coordinators.One example is Harrison Staffing, which is hiring between 100 and 150 workers to support Canada Soccer House at Toronto’s Harbourfront Centre.

According to its CEO, Danny Murrell, the event has attracted a strong influx of applicants, including students and individuals seeking secondary income sources, reflecting growing financial pressure on households and the need for additional earnings beyond primary employment.

Murrell also noted that a substantial portion of applicants are already employed elsewhere but are looking for supplementary work, highlighting the increasing normalization of side gigs.

Broader economic data referenced in the article suggests rising interest in gig work across Canada, with a survey by Employment Hero indicating that a portion of workers are open to temporary event-based jobs and flexible work arrangements.The growth of digital platforms such as Uber, DoorDash, and Upwork has further facilitated access to short-term employment.

Economists and financial advisors also point out that while gig work can help supplement income, individuals should be mindful of tax implications, as additional earnings may affect tax obligations in subsequent years.

Overall, the World Cup is expected to boost short-term employment opportunities while also reinforcing longer-term trends toward flexible and supplementary work in Canada’s labour market.