Another common question for working/settling in Canada is the foreign credential recognition immigration: our clients often ask, “How do I get my foreign education credentials recognized?“ Unlock the insights you need to navigate the credential recognition process with confidence—read on to empower your next steps.
The following steps are crucial for obtaining recognition of your foreign credentials.
- Determine the Purpose of Your Credential Assessment
For Education: If you’re pursuing further studies in Canada, institutions typically have their own procedures and may request credential evaluations from specified agencies.
For Employment: Certain employers or professional regulatory bodies may require a credential evaluation from an approved assessment service.
For Immigration: Those applying through Canada’s skilled worker programs must obtain an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) from a recognized organization.
- Select a Designated Credential Assessment Agency
Canada has five primary organizations authorized by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for credential assessment for Foreign Credential Recognition immigration:
World Education Services (WES)
Comparative Education Service (CES) – University of Toronto
International Credential Assessment Service of Canada (ICAS)
International Qualifications Assessment Service (IQAS)
Medical Council of Canada (specifically for medical practitioners)
Each agency has different areas of focus, so review their requirements and timelines before making a choice.
- Collect Necessary Documentation
You will generally need to provide official transcripts, diplomas, or certificates from your educational institution(s). Some assessment bodies require direct submission from your institution, while others may accept certified copies. Be sure to confirm with your chosen organization if translations are needed for documents not in English or French.
- Submit Your Application and Pay Fees
Each assessment organization has a unique application process, usually accessible online. Fees vary depending on the service and assessment type, so review the pricing and services carefully.
- Receive and Utilize Your Credential Evaluation
Processing times range from a few weeks to several months. Upon completion, you will receive an evaluation report that provides a Canadian equivalency for your foreign education. This report can be used as proof of your academic qualifications when applying to schools or for employment.
Provincial and territorial governments often supervise the process, frequently through specialized regulatory authorities, and regulated vocations in Canada necessitate a license or certification in order to operate. Employment in these sectors is contingent upon obtaining licensure, which is determined by various bodies. Employment including accountant, nurse, teacher, and electrician are among the 20% of Canadian employment that are subject to regulations.
However, the majority of occupations are unregulated and do not call for certification; these include such as a sales representative, web designer, and bookkeeper. The Foreign Credential Recognition in Canada Tool provides information on employment availability, regulatory agencies, job qualifications, and average salary for newcomers.
- FCRP (The Canadian Foreign Credentials Recognition Program):
The government, not the individual, provides funds to the provincial and territorial governments in addition to other organizations. The money raised is then used to support programs that advance the cause. Projects that are national in scope, concentrate on important industries and occupations that represent Canada’s skill needs, and/or have been identified as such by provincial and territorial governments constitute one of the funding priorities under the FCRP. Provincial and territorial governments, regulatory agencies, trade groups, public health facilities, non-profits, unions, school boards, municipalities, universities, and colleges are among the recipients.
In summary, the process involves four key steps: first, clearly define your objective; second, select an appropriate credential assessment service; third, submit an application for an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA); and finally, adhere to any field-specific requirements and guidelines. For further information/inquiry book a consultation or contact us.