Recently arrived immigrants needs are many, from housing to locating schools for children to finding a job. Finding a job is usually given the highest priority right after housing. In their haste, sometimes, new immigrants will take on jobs below their qualifications just so that the immediate financial stress can be alleviated. Even if that is the case, it is highly recommended for newcomers to have their academic and professional credentials recognized.
The following list can help you get started:
Determine if your profession is regulated:
* The Foreign Credentials Referral Office provides the Working in Canada tool to help you determine if your profession is regulated or non-regulated in the province/territory in which you are living or wish to live.
* If your profession is regulated, the Working in Canada tool will indicate the appropriate provincial / territorial regulatory body. You need to contact this organization to determine what steps to take to start working in your profession.
* Some professions that are not regulated by law have professional organizations that may provide certification courses. Membership in these organizations may help you get work in your profession. The Working in Canada tool can help you find out if there are any professional associations in your field.
* If your profession is non-regulated, it is still a good idea to have your credentials assessed and recognized. The Foreign Credentials Referral Office Web site can also provide a list of credential assessment and recognition agencies in Canada.
Organize your Documents
* The regulatory body for your profession will need specific documents to support the recognition of your credentials. Generally, you will require at least a copy of your degree/diploma and transcripts, translated into either English or French. The regulatory body will specify any other documents necessary and will be able to provide you additional information such as translation standards.
* To work in Canada, you will need a Social Insurance Number. You can apply for a Social Insurance Number, at your local Service Canada Centre or by mail. You must provide a primary document that proves your identity and status in Canada. If the name on your primary document is different from the one you are currently using, you must also provide a supporting document. These documents must be originals and written in English or French.
Have your credentials assessed:
* Work with the appropriate regulatory body to provide them with the necessary documents and have your credentials assessed. The documents and process are determined by the specific regulatory body and can vary greatly depending on the province/territory and profession.
Begin the job search:
* For your job search, you will need a résumé or curriculum vitae translated into English or French and formatted in a style acceptable to Canadian employers. Visit your nearest Settlement Organization or Employment Resource Centre for help with your résumé and job search activities.
* If you have letters of reference from previous employers, you should also have them translated into English or French.
* Search the Job Bank for jobs across Canada that are posted daily. You may also use Job Match to advertise your skills to employers in Service Canada's Job Bank and receive a list of matching jobs. Job Alert provides a list, by e-mail, of jobs that match your search criteria.
Apply for other employment programs and services:
* You may be eligible for other programs and services to help you during this period. Visit the Benefits Finder on the Service Canada Training and Careers Web site for a list of federal and provincial or territorial government benefits for which you may be eligible.
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For more info, contact:
Harvinder Sandhu at Multicultural Services Program
Services provided in Punjabi, Hindi and English
604-572-4060
Drop in at: #103- 6844 King George Hwy., Surrey, B.C.
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