Newcomers to Canada to get credential recognition help

The Government of Canada is to introduce a new Targeted Employment Strategy for newcomers, designed to help internationally trained new arrivals find jobs that match their skills and experience.

Newcomers to Canada often face challenges in getting their credentials recognised so that they can find work. The Government’s new Targeted Employment Strategy for Newcomers will reduce barriers to employment and support newcomers as they put their skills to work in the Canadian economy.

“Attracting the best and brightest from around the world benefits all Canadians, and is one of the Government of Canada’s top priorities,” said Ahmed Hussen, Canada’s Immigration Minister. “I am proud that our government is supporting newcomers and helping them overcome barriers that limit their employment opportunities in Canada.”

New arrivals will benefit from three new measures: improved pre-arrival supports to help them start the foreign credential recognition process before arriving in Canada; a loan program that will help them with the costs of having their foreign credentials recognised, such as licensing exams, training, travel and skills upgrading; and a new pilot project to test innovative approaches to help newcomers get Canadian work experience.

“I’m proud of our government’s new Targeted Employment Strategy for Newcomers, which is part of our plan to help people, including internationally trained newcomers, find and keep good, well-paying jobs,” explained Patty Hajdu, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Labour. “This will strengthen our middle class, help those working hard to join it, and grow our economy.”

The country’s recently announced Budget proposes to commit CDN$27.5 million over five years, starting in 2017–18, and CDN$5.5 million per year thereafter for the new Targeted Employment Strategy.

As part of Canada’s Innovation and Skills Plan, Budget 2017 also encourages lifelong learning; supports retraining and skills upgrading for Canadian workers, especially those from underrepresented groups, such as youth, Indigenous Peoples and women; and works with provinces and territories to help more Canadians find and keep good jobs.

Article published 7th April 2017