What is a Survival Job?

These jobs are easy to get and earn just enough to pay the bills. But it may not relate to your dream career or professional background. Often, it’s a low-paying job that requires little to no skills. Once you get a survival job, keep searching for a job in your profession.

What are Some Survival Jobs?

Survival jobs can include driving for ride-sharing apps like Uber, delivery drivers for food services, retail sales representative, customer service, call centre agent, warehouse worker, restaurant server, and more.

Since a survival job requires little skill, it doesn’t have to relate to your profession. The employer will train you for the skills you need.

Salary for Survival Jobs in Canada

Generally, these jobs pay less than $20 per hour. Employers in Canada must pay you at least the federal minimum wage. You can expect to earn an annual income of around $30,000 to $50,000. Depending on where you live in Canada, this income probably won’t be enough to save for a down payment and buy a house. This salary will barely pay the rent if you live in Toronto or Vancouver.

Survival jobs are not meant to be permanent jobs. They allow you to earn income to help you get by until you find a permanent job in your field.

Advantages

Canada is expensive, and it can take up to six months to find a job in your chosen field. Without enough savings, you’ll need to earn additional money. In this case, finding a survival job is smart. It can also help you:

Cover Living Expenses

A survival job will earn you enough money to get by and save some money if you are careful. It can help you cover day-to-day living expenses. Survival jobs may offer flexible hours to allow you to attend interviews.

Since they are easier to obtain than regular jobs, newcomers usually get a survival job first. If you have savings, plan how long you can live on your savings while searching for a job in your profession.

Gain Canadian Experience

Most people look for the highest-paying survival job they can find. This may not be the best approach. A better approach is to find a job related to your profession. If you have a specific organization you would like to work for, try to get an entry-level job to get your foot in the door. This can help you secure a position that matches your skills and experience.

If you can’t find a job directly related to your profession, look for survival jobs that share some of the same skills with your profession. A good example would be teachers who could tutor part-time or full-time to show future employers that you can teach to Canadian standards. When you apply for a teaching job, you will have some Canadian experience to help you land the job.  

Learn New Skills

While a survival job is not your ideal choice, it can help you learn or enhance existing skills. Canadian employers value adaptability, teamwork, and communication skills. You’ll also learn about the Canadian workplace, hone your skills, and build confidence for job interviews related to your profession.

How to Find a Survival Job

Finding a survival job in Canada is easy if you know where and how to look:

Networking

Networking is the number one way to get any job in Canada. Simply put, networking is building relationships to help you with your career. Effective networking happens by building two-way relationships. You show value and prove you have the required skills and experience to do the job.

Your network can include friends, relatives, and people you meet during your job search. Just showing your resumé to the HR department of the organization will not be enough. Words are more effective than any cover letter or resumé.

Tell people about your skills and capabilities. When people hear about a job opening, make sure they remember you. They may recommend you for the job if you leave a good impression.

Employment Agencies

Another great way to find jobs is through employment agencies. Companies hire these agencies to find capable and experienced workers. It’s a good idea to look up some of the best employment agencies in your area and approach them.

Online Job Boards

Job boards are the most common way to find jobs. Websites such as Indeed, the Canada Job Bank, and LinkedIn are great online job boards.

LinkedIn is also great for building your network. Employers use online job boards to advertise available jobs. If you see a job that interests you, you can apply directly to the employer through the job board.

While a survival job is not the best first job you can get, it is easy to get and can help you earn money to pay the bills. But don’t give up on your permanent job search.

Join professional associations, build your network, and take junior roles to get your foot in the door. These steps will help you reach career success in Canada faster!

Should You Get a Survival Job in Canada?

It depends on your financial situation and savings. Research your profession to assess the job outlook. If possible, search for a job related to your field to gain relevant Canadian experience. While a survival job can help you manage your finances while you look for your dream job, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons.

Changes in the Canadian Job Market by Sector

According to Statistics Canada, the economy added 7,400 jobs, a small increase from March and February. The unemployment rate rose to 6.9%, the highest since November 2024. The rising unemployment rate suggests employers were not hiring as quickly as the population grew.

Sectors that saw job gains in April included:

Provincial and City Unemployment Rates

The unemployment rate measures the health of the economy and the job market. Amid the uncertainty created by the ongoing trade war with the United States, the national unemployment rate rose to 6.9% in April from 6.7% in March.

Provincial Unemployment Rates, April 2025

City Unemployment Rates

Tariffs are Impacting the Labour Market

In March, the Donald Trump U.S. administration put tariffs on many imported goods from Canada, like steel and aluminum imports. This action continues to create uncertainty for Canadian businesses and the job market.

Trade tensions may discourage investment, and a lack of business confidence will impact hiring.

Shifting Immigration Policy

Canada’s labour market will face added pressure due to a shift in immigration policy when targets were lowered for 2025 – 2027. However, the newly elected Liberal government is committed to ensuring immigration changes benefit the economy and jobs.

The government will focus on balancing its approach while maintaining Canada’s reputation as a welcoming nation.

Key Takeaways

Understanding job market trends is crucial for newcomers seeking to enter Canada’s job market. The job market losses in April reinforce the economic uncertainty created by tariffs and the global trade war.

With a changing job market, it’s vital to know how your specific industry and occupation will be affected. Researching job prospects for your profession will make it easier to continue your career in Canada.

What are the Benefits of Mentoring?

For newcomers, finding a mentor from your profession or trade can provide many benefits. For example, a mentor can:

Where to Find a Mentor in Canada?

Settlement agencies, employment councils, and professional associations are ideal places to find a mentor in Canada. You can also tap into your network, including friends, family members, and others willing to share their time and knowledge.

Newcomer Settlement Services

Settlement agencies provide many free services to help you navigate the Canadian job market. This includes finding a mentor from your professional background. You can find free newcomer employment services here.

Immigrant Employment Councils

In Canada, employment councils, such as the Edmonton Region Immigrant Employment Council (ERIEC), provide mentoring and job search programs for newcomers. Major cities have Immigrant Employment Councils, including the Toronto Region, Calgary Region, Immigrant Council of BC, and more.

Professional Associations

Associations also provide mentoring programs. To learn more about occupation-specific associations in Canada, visit Career Pathways for more than 20 occupations in Canada. For each occupation, you’ll discover associations and immigrant networks that can help you to find a mentor in Canada.

What Makes a Great Mentor and Mentee Relationship?

The most successful mentor and mentee relationships occur when both know the skills, qualities, and role each plays.

Mentor Skills and Qualities

A great mentor listens. You may have concerns and issues about your job search and career development in Canada. However, you also have ideas about how to overcome obstacles. A good mentor will listen to your concerns so you can jointly create options.

They are excited to help you achieve career success in Canada. Mentors maintain a positive outlook about your skills, talent, and experience and appreciate the skills you offer. They also have these mentoring skills:

Values learning and helping others

A good mentor wants to share knowledge and experience. A mentor doesn’t have to be an expert. Rather, they should be able to help you access resources to find the answers to your questions.

Recognizes strengths

You have many strengths, skills, and knowledge that you bring to your profession in Canada. A good mentor will encourage you and believe in your ability to continue and excel in your career. 

Provides feedback

Providing genuine and constructive feedback can help you learn, grow, and develop your skills. A good mentor provides specific, honest, and clear feedback.

Understands the newcomer experience

It can take newcomers longer than expected to find a job in their profession. If you are getting licensed to work in a regulated profession, it takes time and money. It can be a lengthy and frustrating experience. A good mentor will recognize these challenges and encourage you to achieve your goals, despite obstacles.

Tips to Be a Great Mentee

Knowing how to build your relationship once you find a mentor is the key to success! Here’s how you can be a great mentee:

Have a Mentoring Goal

With a clear goal in mind, your mentor will be able to help you reach your career goals. Setting goals will help you achieve concrete outcomes.

A goal may be: “To achieve credential recognition to advance my career opportunities.” You may also want to develop a specific skill to achieve a career goal.

Be open and honest

Share your professional goals, issues, and concerns. Discuss issues and obstacles to identify options and build a solid action plan.

Commit to the mentoring relationship

Mentors usually volunteer for a professional association or community group. So it’s important to respect their time and effort. Prepare, be punctual, and follow through on commitments after the meeting. Discuss how and when to contact your mentor to avoid misunderstandings.

It’s helpful to set the length of your mentoring relationship. The match can be from 4 to 12 months, depending on the organization.

Be open to feedback

While a mentor provides feedback, the mentee must be open to feedback. Constructive feedback is a gift that can help you grow.

Keys to a Successful Mentoring Relationship

These factors ensure success:

Compatible Mentor and Mentee Relationship

A successful partnership is based on a great match between the mentor and the mentee. You’ll connect easily when you have a genuine interest in each other. A compatible match can be formal or informal.

Clear Expectations

Realistic expectations will guide the relationship in the right direction. A mentor is there to guide, not tell the mentee what to do. Mentorship requires buy-in and commitment from both sides.

Two-way Contribution

The benefits of mentoring flow both ways. Mentees can contribute to the relationship in a meaningful way and give back. For example, you can share a book title or an article you think your mentor may be interested in.

2. Reducing the Number of Temporary Residents

The government plans to gradually reduce temporary resident levels, affecting international students and temporary foreign workers. This change will ease housing pressures and prevent labour market imbalances. However, industries reliant on temporary workers, such as hospitality and construction, may face workforce shortages.

The new Liberal government expects existing temporary residents to transition to permanent residents, reducing the number of temporary residents. Immigration caps will likely remain in place until Canada expands its current housing levels. Building housing is a key priority for Mark Carney and the new Liberal government.

International Students and temporary workers may find that these changes will make it more difficult to secure permanent residency.

3. Increasing Francophone Immigration

The new strategy seeks to increase francophone immigration outside Quebec to strengthen Canada’s bilingual identity to 12% by 2029.

The Liberal government’s francophone immigration policy intends to grow French-speaking communities in Ontario, New Brunswick, and Manitoba. policy. This immigration rule provides opportunities for francophone immigrants to settle outside of Quebec.

4. Introducing Tighter International Student Rules

To prevent abuse of student visa programs, new immigration rules will place enrollment caps for certain schools. With many post-secondary institutions over-enrolling international students, it added pressure on rental markets. New immigration rules in Canada will cap international student permits according to regional housing and employment capacity.

1. Create or Update your About Section

Your LinkedIn profile represents your brand. Therefore, a professional profile is the best way to project your unique brand and positive image.  

The About section combines your career biography and value pitch to potential employers and contacts. Be concise so the reader does not have to click the ‘More…’ button. It will take time to get this right, so write, proofread, and rewrite it several times. 

Once you have it right, you can add to it and reuse your pitch on your resume, in networking conversations, interviews, etc. The key things you should describe are:

• Your profession e.g., Civil Engineer, Accountant, Business or Project Manager, etc.
• Education level
• Industries you’ve worked in, e.g., construction, healthcare, logistics, etc.
• Size and scope of projects you’ve been involved in (quantify them)
• Membership with a relevant professional association in Canada
• Legal status in Canada, e.g. “Canadian Permanent Resident”.

You can also list if you are acquiring or ‘challenging’ credentials with a relevant professional body in Canada.

2. Use a Professional LinkedIn Photo

Adding a professional LinkedIn photo to your LinkedIn profile will make you more visible to employers searching for people with your skills and experience. According to LinkedIn, members with a high-quality profile photo receive up to 21 times more profile views than those without one.

4. Highlight Relevant Work Experience

Listing your experience is vital to your LinkedIn profile. However, some of your past experiences may not relate to the career you want to pursue in Canada. 

List past jobs that are relevant to your career goals. Focus on the workplaces, experiences, and credentials that directly relate to the jobs you want to pursue.  

It’s also vital to update your current position. For example, did you receive a promotion, win an award, publish an article, or complete an innovative project? If so, update your profile to reflect these achievements.

Showcase your professional career, growth, and accomplishments in the Summary and Experience sections.

Newcomers often apply for many roles and seniority levels to test the job market. It’s an understandable tactic and a valuable learning exercise, but don’t spread yourself too thin. Be careful about the range of roles you apply for. The ‘Experience’ section in your LinkedIn profile should support the roles you apply for.

“Less is more” when listing ‘Experience’ details. It’s better than providing too much information. Include three to five bullet points that sell your unique achievements, seniority, and technical skills.

5. Update Your Professional Skills

Certifications are eye-catching. So add notable certificates, skills, or abilities that you possess. Many training programs or skills will have badges to add to your LinkedIn profile.

Update this section regularly or whenever you learn a new skill. These skills could be terms that the LinkedIn algorithm will pick up and help recruiters search for and find you. Delete outdated skills and skills no longer relevant to your career interests.

7. Ask Others for a LinkedIn Endorsement

A LinkedIn endorsement makes your profile come to life. It’s persuasive when your network endorses and recommends you.

But you should only ask people who know your work well to endorse you. Otherwise, you risk putting people in your network in an awkward position. If they don’t know you well, they won’t be able to give a strong recommendation that reflects your experience. The same applies to you when others ask you to provide recommendations.

Prepare to write a factual recommendation and approach a past manager or colleague to see if they would be willing to post it on your LinkedIn profile. It’s easier if you write a recommendation that they can edit and use.

For recruiters, a LinkedIn endorsement indicates the truth in a candidate’s resume. It can take time to gather endorsements, so the sooner you invest energy to get them, the better!

9. Engage and Share Content to Build LinkedIn Relationships

LinkedIn helps you network and build relationships with peers in the location or industry you want to enter. You can share, learn, and connect with others by:

• Making meaningful and polite comments on articles
• Adding positive comments to other people’s comments
• Using the Like icons on posts or articles.

LinkedIn is a professional forum, so avoid getting involved in political debates, opinion snowballs, or contentious conversations.

1. Each Province Issues Licenses to Drive in Canada

You must obtain your driving license from the province where you plan to live. If you move to another province, you must get a valid license from that province.

The process to get your driver’s license varies by province. Check the Provincial Ministry of Transportation (links provided below) for specific requirements where you plan to live. You may need:

• Personal identification such as your Confirmation of Permanent Residence Form or Permanent Residence Card
• Documents from your home country, including your driving license extract
• Proof of residency in Canada, such as a utility bill or lease agreement
• Additional documents required by the province.

Gathering the documents you need from your home country before you arrive in Canada to save time and money.

The foreign license exchange agreement allows people from specific countries to exchange their license for a Canadian permit without taking a knowledge or road test. This can save time and enable newcomers to adapt to life in Canada while ensuring they meet driving regulations.

You may be able to take advantage of the Foreign License Exchange Agreement if you have a valid driving license from one of these countries:  

You can also use an International Driving Permit (IDP). An IDP allows licensed drivers from other countries to drive in Canada without testing or applications. However, an IDP is primarily useful for drivers who are visiting Canada. 

Permanent residents can only use the IDP for a defined period. This usually varies from 60 to 90 days, depending on the province. You must obtain an IDP from your home country. 

3. You May Be Eligible for Foreign Driving Experience Credits 

You may be eligible for credits for previous driving experience if your country is not recognized in the foreign license exchange agreement (i.e. India, Nigeria, Philippines). The driving credits will reduce the time and cost to get your full license in Canada. 

To apply for foreign driving experience credits, you must:

You may be eligible for credits for previous driving experience if your country is not recognized in the foreign license exchange agreement (i.e. India, Nigeria, Philippines). The driving credits will reduce the time and cost to get your full license in Canada. 

To apply for foreign driving experience credits, you must:

• Have proper documents, including a current license, proof of identification, and driver’s extract 
• Pass a vision test, written test, and one or two driving tests depending on the number of years of driving experience and documents you have

• Provide a Letter of Authentication as proof of your driving experience.
• Research documents you may need to get driving credits. You can obtain this information from the provincial ministries of transportation (see section: Provincial Ministry of Transportation).

4. You Must Meet Minimum Requirements to Drive in Canada

While minimum requirements may vary by province, generally, you must:

• Be of legal age to drive, which is 16 in most provinces

• Pass medical health tests, physical, vision, and hearing requirements

• Complete driver testing, including written and in-car driving tests, to ensure you know the road rules in Canada.

Visit the Provincial Ministry of Transportation to confirm the specific requirements (see links below).

Taking advantage of the foreign license exchange or obtaining foreign driver experience credits may reduce the time and cost to get a full G license. 

5. Canada has a Graduated Licensing System

Each province uses a graduated licensing system to ensure drivers have the skills and knowledge to drive safely. The system has three levels:

• G1 learner’s permit: allows you to drive with a fully licensed driver
• G2 probationary license: permits drivers to practice driving independently with some restrictions
• G full license: removes most driving restrictions.

Moving from a G1 to a full G license can take up to two years. However, you have five years to get your G license from the day you pass your G1 test. Taking advantage of the foreign license exchange or obtaining foreign driver experience credits can reduce the time and cost.

While car insurance may be expensive, it is a legal must-have. However, insurance companies want your business, so shop for the best rates.  

6. You Must Have Car Insurance to Drive in Canada

Every province and territory in Canada requires drivers to have car insurance. It is illegal to drive in Canada without car insurance, and you can face penalties, including:

Fines from $5,000 – $25,000 for a first conviction

• Fines from $10,000 – $50,000 for a second conviction
• Suspension of your driver’s license
• Seizure or impoundment of your car for up to three months.

The minimum requirements for car insurance also vary in each province. So, verify what insurance you require with the provincial Ministry of Transportation websites and insurance companies.

While car insurance can be expensive, it is a legal must-have if you want to drive with peace of mind. Also, many insurance companies want your business, so shop for the best rates. 

7. Driving Rules and Laws Vary in Each Province

The driving rules are similar in most provinces, but there are differences. You can research the driving rules before you arrive to avoid facing tickets and penalties. This will reduce the stress of driving in a new country, increase safety, and prevent accidents.

Become familiar with the laws in the province where you intend to get your driver’s license to ensure your safety.

Rules of the Road When Driving in Canada

While laws may vary in each province, the basic rules of the road remain the same across Canada.

Speed Limits

Speed limits are vital road rules in Canada. Pay attention to posted speed limits. Common speed limits are 50 kilometers per hour in cities, 80 on two-lane highways, and 100 on most highways.

Seatbelts

Buckle up! All drivers and passengers must wear seatbelts for safety or get a fine. Children must be in child safety seats until they meet age and weight requirements.

Cell Phone Use

You can only use your cell phone using a “hands-free” device (i.e. Bluetooth) or a mounted device. Texting or holding your phone will result in hefty distracted driving charges and increase your car insurance rates. Distracted driving is one of the biggest dangers on the road. Learn more about what counts as distracted driving in Ontario.

Alcohol

Driving under the influence of alcohol (DUI) is a serious offense in Canada. With a DUI, the police can suspend your license, impound your vehicle, or arrest you. It is a criminal offense to drive with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08%. Avoid drinking and driving and opt for a taxi, UBER, or public transit.

Learning to Drive

If you want to learn to drive, consider taking lessons from a recognized driving school. When you take driving lessons, you can also lower your insurance rates. Completing driving lessons shows insurance companies that you have received professional training and can drive safely. In turn, they will reward you with lower insurance rates. Click here for government-approved driving schools in Ontario.

9. Children Must Be in Child Car Safety Seats

Another road rule in Canada is that children must be in a child car safety seat from birth until they meet age, height, and weight requirements. Four stages of child car safety seats include: 

1. 1. Rear-facing infant seats

2. Forward-facing child car seats

3. Booster seats for children who weigh 18 kg (40 lb)

4. Seat belts for children who have outgrown their booster seats.

Ensure the safe use of car seats with these child car seat safety resources.

Know How to Install Child Safety Seats Properly

10. You Can Finance a Car with a Loan or a Lease

Operating and maintaining a car in Canada is expensive. From regular maintenance to annual car insurance, costs add up quickly. However, if you must have a car, you can get a loan from the bank or lease a car. Or, you can pay cash if you readily have cash. A car is a big purchase, so most people get a car loan or lease a car.

Whether you finance a car through a loan or a lease, there are key differences to know and understand. So, carefully consider each option to help you make the right choice. 

If buying a used car in Canada, there are additional things to know and do to ensure you get the best value.

These 10 facts will increase your safety and make it easier to drive in Canada confidently.

Lawyer careers are held in high esteem in Canada. Those who hold lawyer jobs put in years of education, articling, and work to get into the profession. It’s a career that can take you in many directions and lawyer salaries are higher than average in Canada. If you’re an internationally trained lawyer interested in continuing your law career in Canada it’s vital to research the profession in Canada and understand job requirements. Continue reading to learn more about the law profession in Canada, job requirements, law salaries, job search techniques, and much more!

Lawyers in Canada require two to three years of undergraduate studies, a bachelor’s degree from a recognized law school, successful completion of the bar exam, and must complete an articling period. In addition, every lawyer in Canada and notary in Quebec is required by law to be a member of a law society and to be governed by its rules and the provincial laws that regulate entry into the legal profession.

How to Immigrate to Canada for Lawyer Careers

You can immigrate to Canada and become a lawyer, but you have to complete a series of steps to get accredited before you can practice law. The National Committee on Accreditation (NCA) which is part of the Federation of Law Societies in Canada (FLSC), assesses the qualifications of all internationally-trained legal graduates, whether they are Canadian citizens who have obtained their legal education abroad or newcomers to Canada with an overseas legal education. You can start the assessment process before moving to Canada. The NCA will not process your application until they get all your documents and the required fees.

Before You Move to Canada to Continue Your Law Career

If you have international qualifications, it’s helpful to know how your qualifications will be assessed. It’s also important to research the Canadian labour market to identify if there is a demand for the type of law that you want to practice. Ensuring that a demand exists will go a long way to continuing your law career in Canada.

There are steps that you can take before you immigrate to improve your chances of practicing law in Canada:

• Attend the webinar How to Find Your First Job in Canada as a Newcomer to learn about job search strategies.

• Contact the provincial or territorial law society where you plan to settle in Canada to find out about the:
  • The process to follow to obtain a law license, and
  • Steps you can take before and after you immigrate to Canada
  • Documents you require
  • Assessment fees.

• Assess your language skills by taking an online self-assessment on the Centre for Canadian Language Benchmarks website.

• Improve your language skills and enroll in language classes while still in your home country and continue them after moving to Canada. You’ll need to prove your English or French (depending on your destination province) language competency or be tested. Good communication skills are essential in lawyer careers.

• Understand how the law is practiced in Canada and familiarize yourself with the provincial legislation where you’ll settle.

• Research lawyer salary, benefits, and compensation. Lawyer salaries can change a lot based on where you live.

• Know the name of your job title in Canada so that you know what job titles to search for.

What to Expect When Pursuing a Lawyer Career in Canada

If you want to continue your law career in Canada, it’s essential to research what’s required. You may need to upgrade your skills and prepare for licensing exams.

Lawyers and notaries belong to a regulated profession in Canada. This means that you must be licensed by the provincial or territorial law society where you settle. It can take both significant time and money to prepare to work as a lawyer in Canada and you need to plan for that reality.

The FLSC is the national body that coordinates the provincial and territorial law societies that exist in the country.

The English-speaking provinces of Canada follow the English common law traditions, while in the French-speaking province of Quebec, the legal tradition is based on civil law.

To practice law in the province of Quebec, a bachelor’s degree in civil law from a recognized law school and a master’s degree in notarial law are required along with licensing by the Chambre des notaires du Québec.

Employment Outlook for Lawyer Jobs in Canada 

The labour market conditions (supply and demand) for lawyer careers in Canada are balanced. It’s expected that 39,200 lawyer jobs will become available from 2022-2031 and there will be enough job seekers to fill these roles, including new immigrants. The Government of Canada’s Job Bank is a valuable resource with key facts and figures about working as a lawyer in Canada. You’ll also find information about wages (national, provincial, and regional averages) job prospects, and a summary of labour market conditions.

Start Your Research with the NOC Code for Lawyer Jobs in Canada

To begin your research, you can refer to the National Occupational Classification (NOC) 41101 for Lawyers and Quebec notaries. Here you’ll get a profile and overview of the main duties, employment requirements, and other job titles that employers may advertise for. This is helpful to know when you begin your job search in Canada.

Requirements to Become a Lawyer in Canada

Whether you are an internationally trained lawyer immigrating to Canada, a Canadian citizen who has obtained a legal education abroad, or even a prospective immigrant, the NCA will assess your qualifications. You can apply while still in your home country – your citizenship, nationality, and residency are not factors in the assessment process.

5 Steps to Accreditation as a Lawyer in Canada

1. Apply for a Certificate of Qualification

Submit your application to the NCA with the right documents and payment.

2. NCA Assessment

The NCA assesses each application on an individual basis, taking into account legal education and professional experience, and determines what further education is required.

3. NCA Assignments

The NCA will tell you what you must do to qualify for law society bar admission (known as “assignments”). Applicants from a common-law jurisdiction may be asked to take several NCA exams or equivalent courses at a Canadian law school. Applicants from a non-common law jurisdiction, who have had minimal or no exposure to common law, are usually required to obtain a Canadian LLB/JD degree.

4. Complete Your NCA Assignments

The NCA will send you a letter to describe the legal education you need to complete your assignments. These assignments ensure that your knowledge of Canadian law is similar to someone who got their degree from a Canadian common law program.

5. NCA Issues a Certificate of Qualification

When you meet the requirements successfully, the NCA will issue you a Certificate of Qualification.

With your NCA Certificate of Qualification in hand, you can apply for student-at-law status with the Law Society of your province (see section: Law Societies and Associations below).

Documents Required for the NCA Assessment

To apply for an NCA assessment, you will have to submit some or all of the following:

• A completed application form

• An original set of your final academic transcripts (copies will not be accepted)

• A current detailed Curriculum Vitae (your education and work experience)

• Payment of a non-refundable application fee.

As well, the institutions referred to below must send the following documents directly to the NCA:

• An official copy of your academic transcripts issued by the institution where you obtained your legal education

• A certificate or letter of membership in good standing issued by the local regulatory authority which governs your admission to the practice of law in that jurisdiction (if applicable)

• An official copy of your transcripts issued by the local regulatory authority that governs your admission to the practice of law in that jurisdiction (if applicable).

While language competency is not a requirement, NCA exams require a high language competency both in reading and writing. As well, to practice law in Canada you need to have high competence in listening, reading, speaking, and writing communication skills.

Once the NCA receives all your documents, it can take up to three months to process your application. The NCA will mail their assessment to you.

Credentials Assessment Services for Lawyers

If you plan to enroll in a college or university program to upgrade your skills before pursuing a lawyer career, you may have to get an educational evaluation. However, before you spend any money, contact the school to find out if they have a preferred credential assessment agency that you should use. This step can save you money.

World Education Services (WES) – Ontario

International Qualifications Assessment Service (IQAS) – Alberta

The International Credential Evaluation Service (ICES) – British Columbia

To find more organizations and agencies providing credential evaluation, assessment and qualification recognition services click here.

Upgrading Your Skills to Meet Lawyer Job Requirements

In addition to accreditation, upgrading your skills through a bridging program or other courses and workshops is an important part of your journey to becoming a lawyer in Canada. You must have strong communication, legal research and writing, and technical skills. Canadian legal employers also expect you to be resilient, flexible, assertive, and innovative.

You may have strong technical skills, but often that is not enough to get a job or maintain it afterward. You may need more training or skills upgrading, especially your soft skills. Any additional skills you add will help your chance of success in your lawyer career.

Language Training for Lawyers in Canada

Having strong skills in one or both of Canada’s official languages – English or French – is extremely important for your future in Canada. Whether you choose to focus on learning or improving English or French will depend on which of the two languages most people speak in the area where you live.

You may be eligible for Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) program. Otherwise, you can find other free or affordable English as a Second Language or French as Second Language classes through local school boards or settlement agencies.

There are even language courses to teach you professional terminologies, such as job-specific language training and if residing in Ontario, Occupation Specific Language Training (OSLT). If you are in Toronto, the Toronto District Board of School offers a fourteen-week Enhanced Language Training program focusing on Customer Service & Administration for immigrant women.

And, if you already speak one of Canada’s two official languages at a high level, learning the other one is a good option, as it may offer you better lawyer career opportunities.

Bridging Programs for Lawyer Careers in Canada

Bridging programs are a helpful way to transition from your international experience and training to the Canadian workplace. You can find more information about bridging programs for lawyer careers in Ontario and Alberta:

Bridging Programs for Lawyer Careers in Ontario

Osgoode Hall Law School

NCA Online Exam Prep

This course is designed for foreign-qualified lawyers planning to write the NCA exams. It offers instruction in: Foundations of Canadian Law; Constitutional Law; Administrative Law; and, Canadian Criminal Law.

Bridging Programs for Lawyer Careers in Alberta

Bredin Centre for Learning

Centre for Skilled and Internationally Trained Professionals

A no-cost program that helps internationally educated professionals (IEPs) understand and navigate the licensure and credential process in Canada.  Bredin staff will support IEPs through the process and assist them with finding employment that is related to their education.

Calgary Region Immigrant Emploment Council (CRIEC)

CRIEC helps internationally trained lawyers to navigate the accreditation process including mentoring, workshops and observerships in legal workplaces and more.

Law Schools in Canada

There are 23 law schools in Canada: seven in the Western Region, eight in Ontario, five in Quebec, and three in the Atlantic Region. 

All these schools offer a professional degree in one or both of Canada’s two systems of law (Common Law; Civil Law). They also offer a variety of programs: the Juris Doctor (J.D.) and traditional Bachelor of Laws (LLB); professional degrees leading to the practice of law, graduate studies in law, and various joint programs. Some offer their programs in English only, others in French only, while others offer partially or fully bilingual programs.

In Ontario, several law schools offer programs to help internationally trained lawyers with the accreditation process:

University of Toronto Faculty of Law

Global Professional LLM (GPLLM)

Juris Doctor (J.D.) Program – admits some foreign-trained lawyers to the program.

York University

Osgoode Hall Law School 

In B.C., the University of British Columbia offers the Master of Laws (Common Law) Program LL.M (CL). This year-long, l program provides foundational training in common law and in Canadian law for foreign-trained or non-common law trained lawyers. 

Learn more about Canadian law school programs and admission criteria:

Law Schools in Ontario

Lakehead University – Faculty of Law

University of Ottawa – Common Law

Université d’Ottawa Faculté de droit – Section de droit civil

Queen’s University – Faculty of Law

Western University – Western Law

Toronto Metropolitan University – Lincoln Alexander School of Law 

University of Windsor – Windsor Law

University of Toronto – Faculty of Law

Western Region Law Schools

University of Alberta – Faculty of Law

Peter A. Allard School of Law – University of British Columbia

Faculty of Law – University of Calgary

University of Manitoba – Robson Hall Faculty of Law

University of Saskatchewan – College of Law

Thompson River University – Faculty of Law

University of Victoria – Faculty of Law

Law Schools in Quebec

Université de Laval – Baccalauréat en Droit

McGill University – Faculty of Law

Université de Montréal – Faculté de Droit

Université du Québec – Faculté de Science Politique et de Droit

Faculté de droit – Université de Sherbrooke

Law Schools in the Atlantic Region

Dalhousie University – Schulich School of Law

Université de Moncton – Faculté de Droit

University of New Brunswick – Faculty of Law

Law Societies and Associations in Canada

The following associations provide information about licensure and certification and offer professional development, education and networking opportunities.

National Law Societies

Federation of Law Societies of Canada

National Committee on Accreditation

Provincial Law Societies

Alberta

Law Society of Alberta

British Columbia

Law Society of British Columbia

Manitoba

Law Society of Manitoba

New Brunswick

Law Society of New Brunswick

Newfoundland and Labrador

Law Society of Newfoundland and Labrador

Northwest Territories

Law Society of the Northwest Territories

Nova Scotia

Nova Scotia Barristers’ Society

Nunavut

Law Society of Nunavut

Ontario

Law Society of Ontario

Prince Edward Island

Law Society of Prince Edward Island

Quebec

Barreau du Québec

Chambre des notaires du Québec

Saskatchewan

Law Society of Saskatchewan

Yukon

Law Society of Yukon

Bar Associations

Canadian Bar Association

Immigrant Networks for Lawyers

Professional immigrant networks are volunteer-run member-based associations or networks created by and for immigrant professionals that seek to:

• Create a forum to contribute to and enrich their respective communities

• Provide opportunities for members to find employment and achieve their professional goals.

These groups organize networking events, mentoring, information sessions, and professional development opportunities that can be beneficial for your job search. Here are some networks you can consult:

National Immigrant Networks

Canadian Association of Black Lawyers

British Columbia

South Asian Bar Association of BC

Ontario

Arab Canadian Lawyers Association

Federation of Asian Canadian Lawyers (Ontario Chapter)

Canadian Hispanic Bar Association

South Asian Bar Association of Toronto

How Much Do Lawyers Make in Canada?

Lawyers in Canada are paid well. Lawyer salaries are much higher than average compared to other professions. According to the Government of Canada Job Bank, lawyer salaries can range from $27,446 to $423,922 annually. The lowest median lawyer salary is $79,485 in New Brunswick. The highest median lawyer salary is in Alberta at $140,808.

Lawyer Salaries in Canada

Lawyer salaries in Canada depend on where you live. Your lawyer salary can vary depending on the province where you practice. So, consider lawyer salaries and earning potential when choosing a location. Here are the most recent Lawyer salary numbers in Canada:

Best Provinces to Work in Canada as a Lawyer Based on Salary and Lifestyle

Demand for lawyers is linked to population growth and the volume of business activity, such as real estate transactions, mergers and acquisitions, and bankruptcy, and can therefore be cyclical. Demand for legal services involving real estate transactions, mergers and acquisitions, for instance, tends to decline during a recession, while those involving bankruptcy activities increase. One growing area of demand in today’s complicated business environment is corporate regulatory compliance – helping companies keep up with government and other regulatory rules.

Because job prospects can vary, it’s best to research national, provincial, and regional job prospects for the legal profession in Canada before you arrive. You can find labour market information and job prospects for lawyers at the Canada Job Bank site.

You can research different cities in Canada to learn which ones would best match the personal, professional, and cultural needs of you and your family. Other important factors to consider when choosing a city in Canada, are the costs for housing (both rental housing and home buying) and other costs such as insurance and other recurring monthly expenses.

While wages for lawyers in Canada are lucrative, living in larger cities such as Toronto and Vancouver can be quite expensive. So when you research possible cities to settle in Canada, you may discover secondary cities such as Edmonton, Alberta where housing costs are more affordable. This means you can probably rent or buy a larger house at a lower cost.

Major Employers for Lawyer Jobs in Canada

The federal, provincial, and municipal governments employ lawyers. So do prosecutor’s offices, educational institutions, and private businesses, particularly businesses providing scientific or technical services. In addition, lawyers can join partnerships or law firms, or open their own private practices.

Some of the biggest law firms in Canada are:

• Borden Ladner Gervais LLP

• Fasken LLP

• Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP

• Gowling Lafleur Henderson LLP

• Norton Rose Fulbright LLP.

You can also visit Canada’s Best Diversity Employers website to check for law firms. This special designation recognizes Canada’s best employers for diversity, inclusion, and equity. On the list, you’ll find many law firms, and large organizations that would have a legal function.

How to Find Your First Job in Canada as a Lawyer

The Canadian job market can be competitive, so you need to understand the job search process and prepare for job interviews. And because you must register as a lawyer in the province where you plan to live, you need to search for jobs in that province.

Take your time to research job requirements in different regions throughout the province and develop a plan to find work.

There are many job-finding techniques to help you search for a job in the legal profession, for example, you can:

• Join legal job-finding or networking clubs through immigrant-serving agencies.

• Attend career job fairs and search online job boards to learn about job requirements and pay. When searching job boards pay attention to any skill gaps you see in job postings and address them if possible.

• Seek out a mentor in the legal sector who would give you valuable insights and advice and introduce you to their professional network.

• Have a strong and active presence on social media channels like LinkedIn. Join groups, where you can contribute content, ask questions, build connections, and also learn about law in Canada.

Use Immigrant Settlement Agencies

Finding a job in Canada may be different than in your home country and you may need help to find job vacancies, update your resume, write cover letters and prepare for interviews. Settlement agencies can also help you to understand what Canadian employers look for.

Click the link to find immigrant services in your area.

Network with Others within the Legal Profession

Networking is all about meeting people, building relationships, and sharing information. It’s also a vital activity that will help you to expand your professional network in Canada. By connecting with others, you can learn more about what it’s like to practice law in Canada, get advice or information about a specific law firm, and even discover job leads. Often, many job vacancies are not advertised. This is known as the “hidden job market”. Making connections through networking is a good way to learn about available jobs.

Good places to network include conferences, law associations, and schools. LinkedIn can also be helpful for online networking. With LinkedIn, you can connect with former colleagues and employers, look for jobs, and search for employers. You can also get introductions to people in the legal field and join related professional groups.

Conduct Informational Interviews

An informational interview is a brief (20–30-minute) meeting you schedule with a lawyer to learn more about the field in Canada. Your goal should not be to obtain a job or to ask the individual for a job. This allows you to learn about the profession and meet others working in the law profession with no pressure on either you or the other individual.

An informational interview with a contact from your network can be an excellent source of career information. You also benefit from hearing their first-hand experiences and personal impressions of practicing law in Canada.

Resume Writing for Lawyers in Canada

Besides your name and contact information, your resume should begin with a brief profile of your legal experience. Be sure to highlight any bar admissions you have at the top of your resume. The legal experience section of your legal resume should be separate from your work history section. Writing your resume in this way will highlight your experience and help potential find information about your achievements and transferable skills.

After your work history and education sections, list any associations you are a member of as well as work you’ve done within the legal community. When writing your resume, use the active voice to make it easy to read.

Interview Techniques for Lawyers in Canada

Interviewing for a law position can be competitive. So, be well-prepared to be a successful interview candidate. It’s helpful to prepare and practice responses to some of these common interview questions:

• What interests you in this law firm/organization?

• What sets you apart from your peers?

• What are your strengths?

• In what areas of your profession do you excel?

• Describe a challenging case that demonstrates your analytical skills.

Research the law firm or organization. Find out what the firm does, the types of law it specializes in, and what it does not do. Some do corporate law, some do litigation. Some are big, some are small. Not to mention how their organizational culture may vary. So, try to find out what you can about the firm, and tailor your interview responses. Present yourself in a favourable light but be careful not to embellish your accomplishments.

With a balanced outlook for lawyer jobs in Canada, it’s wise to carefully research job prospects to ensure that you can continue your career in Canada. Labour market conditions vary by province and city, so carefully examine where the outlook is good.

If you are interested in IT jobs in Canada, the technology industry is strong and continues to grow. Canada is regarded as a leader in technology, and it’s one of the best countries in the world to pursue an IT career. There are many opportunities for different IT jobs, and IT professionals are paid well in Canada. 

The job requirements for many IT occupations usually require a university degree or college diploma, and related employment experience in a specific area of IT expertise. Most information and communications technology occupations are non-regulated in Canada. However, many employers require a professional IT certification.  This depends on the type of IT job. For example, to practice as a software engineer (NOC code 21231) or computer engineer (NOC code 21311), you require a provincial or territorial license from a professional engineering association.

The great thing about working in IT is that Canadian companies are very open to hiring immigrants and newcomers. You just have to follow the proper steps to ensure you’re qualified. Prepare yourself for an IT job in Canada with this helpful overview. 

How to Immigrate to Canada as an IT professional

Before You Move to Canada to Pursue an IT Career

The steps you need to complete to work in an IT job in Canada will depend on your career path. It’s important to research the specific requirements for the job you want. For example, if you want to work as an app developer, research the career requirements for software app developers in Canada.

To improve your chances of finding an IT job in Canada, there are general steps that you can take even before you arrive:

• Attend the free webinar How to Find Your First Job in Canada as a Newcomer to learn more about the job market in Canada.

• Take an online self-assessment on the Canadian Language Benchmarks website to assess your language skills.

• Improve your English or French language skills (depending on your destination province). You will need to prove your language competency or be tested.

• Take language classes while you’re in your home country and continue them when you arrive in Canada.

• Understand how your IT occupation is practiced in Canada and familiarize yourself with the laws and legislation that govern it in the province where you will settle.

• Know the name of your job in Canada and learn about the specific IT job requirements in Canada for your job title.

• Look into certification requirements and skill development options if you need to upgrade.

• Check our resources available from the Information and Communications Technology Council to develop your job search plan.

• Research Canadian companies and join IT groups on LinkedIn to learn about the industry in Canada.

What to Expect When Pursuing an IT Career in Canada

There are dozens of IT career paths to pursue in Canada. Each one has different qualifications and requirements. You need a general overview of how your international qualifications may be viewed in Canada. As well, it’s important to have a general sense of the Canadian labour market and workplace culture. Understanding the current job market and employment outlook will help you set realistic expectations for your job search.

Employment Outlook for IT Jobs in Canada 

There is a positive outlook for the information technology industry in Canada. The information and technology (IT) sector is a major employer in Canada and contributes about $150 billion a year to Canada’s economy. There are more than 41,000 IT firms, with 86% having 10 or fewer employees.

According to the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC), forecasts show the tech industry is in a growth phase. It’s predicted to grow by 22.4% from 2021-24.

BDC has a positive outlook for employment in IT. “Forecasts show that employment growth in the digital economy will continue to outpace that in the general economy. By the end of 2025, employment in the digital economy will reach 2.26 million people, reflecting the addition of 250,000 jobs since 2020.”

Read the full report here.

Start Your Research with the NOC Code for IT Jobs in Canada

Information and Communications Technology (ICT) professionals work in a variety of occupations. Some of these occupations are regulated. However, others may require certification or licensing, or a combination of education and work experience, but no certification or licensing.

The National Occupational Classification (NOC) is Canada’s reference for occupations. The NOC code provides standard definitions of the occupation. For job seekers, you can also learn about other titles that are commonly used for your NOC code. This can be helpful when applying for jobs in Canada. The NOC code also outlines the IT job requirements in Canada for specific IT occupations.

The Canadian IT sector includes the following NOC groups:

Computer and Information Systems Managers

NOC code 20012

Example Job Titles

• Computer and Information Systems Managers
• Business Systems Manager
• Cloud Architect Manager
• Computer Systems Manager
• Systems Development Manager.

IT Job Requirements

A bachelor’s or master’s degree in computer science, business administration, commerce, or engineering is usually required. Employers usually require several years of experience in systems analysis, data administration, software engineering, network design, or computer programming, including supervisory experience.

Cybersecurity Specialists

NOC Code 21220

Example Titles

• Cybersecurity Analyst
• Informatics Security Analyst
• Informatics Security Consultant
• Systems Security Analyst.

Cybersecurity Job Requirements

A bachelor’s degree in computer science, computer security, computer systems engineering, or information systems or completion of a college program in information technology, network administration, or other related computer science program. Some employers may require certification or training that is provided by software vendors.

Business Systems Specialists

NOC code 21221

Example Titles

• Information Systems Business Analyst
• Information Technology (IT) Business Analyst
• Business Systems Analyst
• Business Systems Consultant.

Business Systems Specialist Job Requirements

A bachelor’s degree in computer science, business administration, information systems, or a related discipline or completion of a college program in computer science. Some employers may require certification or training from software vendors.

Information Systems Specialists

NOC code 21222

Example Titles

• Computer Systems Analyst
• Informatics Consultant
• Information Systems Quality Assurance (QA) Analyst
• Systems Auditor.

Information System Specialist Job Requirements

A bachelor’s degree in computer science, computer systems engineering, software engineering, business administration or a related discipline, or computer science at the college level. Employers usually require computer science experience to meet IT job requirements in Canada. Some employers may require certification such as Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA), Certified Internal Auditor (CIA), or another IT designation.

Database Analysts and Data Administrators

NOC code 21223

Example Titles

• Data Administrator
• Database Analyst
• Database Administrator (DBA)
• Technical Architect – Database.

IT Job Requirements

A bachelor’s degree or college program in computer science, computer engineering, or mathematics. Employers usually require computer programming and related experience to meet IT job requirements in Canada.

Software Engineers and Designers

NOC code 21231

Example Titles

• Application Architect
• Cloud Operations Engineer
• Software Designer
• Telecommunication software engineer.

Software Engineer Job Requirements

A bachelor’s degree in computer science, computer systems engineering, software engineering, or mathematics, or completion of a college program in computer science. Some employers may require a master’s or doctoral degree in a related field.

In addition, software engineers belong to a regulated profession in Canada. Therefore, they require a license from a provincial or territorial association of professional engineers to practice as a Professional Engineer (P. Eng.). Engineers are to register upon graduating from an accredited engineering program, completing three to four years of supervised work experience in engineering, and passing a professional practice exam.

Computer Engineers

NOC Code 21311

Example Titles

• Computer Hardware Engineer
• Hardware Development Engineer
• Network Infrastructure Engineer
• Wireless Communications Network Engineer.

Computer Engineer Job Requirements

A bachelor’s degree in computer engineering, electrical or electronics engineering, engineering physics, or computer science. A master’s or doctoral degree in a related engineering discipline may be required.

Computer engineers must have a license from a provincial or territorial association of professional engineers to approve engineering drawings and reports and to practise as Professional Engineers (P. Eng.). Engineers are eligible for registration upon graduating from an accredited engineering program, completing three to four years of supervised work experience in engineering, and passing a professional practice exam.

User Support Technicians

NOC code 22221

Example Titles

• Client Support Agent – Technical Support
• Help Desk Technician
• Technical Support Analyst
• User Support Technician.

IT Job Requirements

Completion of a college program in computer science, computer programming, or network administration. College or other courses in computer programming or network administration. Some employers may require certificates or training provided by software vendors to meet IT job requirements in Canada.

Requirements to Become an IT Professional in Canada

In Canada, the requirements to work in information technology will depend on your job type. Companies can request different education, skills, certifications, and experience based on the role. Therefore, you need to research the IT jobs you want to pursue.

Credential Recognition to Meet IT Job Requirements in Canada

Several agencies assess international education credentials to help newcomers to Canada access the education and employment they need. Most IT occupations are non-regulated in Canada. However, if you intend to practice as an engineer, it is important to know that it is provincially regulated. You will need to have proof of your credentials assessed for Canadian equivalency. To avoid wasting valuable time and money, make sure you first contact the relevant regulatory organization to find out which credential assessment agency you should use.

The same rule applies if you are applying to college or university to upgrade your skills. First, contact the school to find out what steps to take, and the credential assessment agency you should use.

Make sure to highlight your international education and skills. Build on your existing knowledge and skills and explore university and college options thoroughly before deciding if you need to pursue further education. Use your international credentials and experience to gain credit or course exemptions. You may be able to get advanced standing, transfer some of your credits and benefit from prior learning assessment options. This will allow you to complete your program more quickly, without wasting money and repeating the education you already have.

Credentials Assessment Services  

There are several places where you can inquire about the steps to take to have your IT credentials assessed in Canada:

World Education Services (WES) – Ontario

International Qualifications Assessment Service (IQAS) – Alberta

The International Credential Evaluation Service (ICES) – British Columbia

To find more assessment services here.

Upgrading Your Skills to Meet Information Technology Job Requirements

You may need to upgrade your skills, especially your soft skills, to meet IT job requirements in Canada. Having strong skills in one or both of Canada’s official languages – English or French – is important for career success. Whether you choose to focus on improving English or French will depend on which of the two languages most people speak in the area where you live.

You may be eligible for Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) program. Or you can find other free or affordable classes in English as a Second Language (ESL) or French as a Second Language (FSL) classes through local school boards or settlement agencies.

Upgrading Your Language Skills for IT Jobs

There are Job-specific language training programs to teach you professional terminology. And, if you’re in Ontario there is Occupation Specific Language Training (OSLT).

Canadian employers look for friendly and assertive professionals with strong communication skills. They also look for people who will fit into their workplace culture and will become leaders over time. In the IT field, they expect employees to have a strong understanding of the business in addition to the technical aspects of the job. They encourage employees to upgrade their existing skills and acquire new skills.

Bridging Programs to Help IT Professionals Meet Job Requirements in Canada

Bridging programs are a good way to transition your international experience to the Canadian workplace. Many colleges, universities, and immigrant-serving agencies offer IT bridging programs, and you may be eligible. Here are some programs to consider:

Ontario

Global Onboarding of Talent (GO Talent)

The GO Talent program helps IEPs immigrating to Canada as permanent residents and are still in their country of origin. IEPs receive assistance to ensure they are job ready when they arrive.

York University – Bridging Program for Internationally Educated Professionals (IEPs)

This IT bridging program allows you to complete three university-level courses to ensure your soft skills and IT program skills are top-notch. It also helps IEPs to transition into jobs that match their education, credentials, and experience.

ACCES Employment – IT Connections: Digital Economy Connections

This program helps internationally trained IT professionals pursue their careers in Canada.

Humber College Programs

Humber College Bridging Program .NET Developer

This successful program with 98% of graduates securing jobs in their field within six months of graduating. It is a bridging program for internationally trained computer programmers. This program provides participants with the advanced concepts, skills and knowledge required to work as .NET Solution Developers.

Humber College – IT Infrastructure Bridging Program

This bridging program is for internationally trained immigrants with education and experience in information technology, computer science, or engineering (computer, electronics, or electrical). You’ll learn advanced concepts and gain skills in computer networking, information security, installation, and configuration of servers in a virtual environment with an emphasis on operating systems. Graduates from this program work as Systems Analysts, IT/Network Administrators, Network Analysts, and more.

Humber College – Occupation-Specific Language Training

This free technology training course provides immigrants with the workplace culture and language skills to communicate effectively on the job. All Humber OSLT graduates earn a certificate.

Alberta

Bredin Centre for Learning

Centre for Skilled and Internationally Trained Professionals

A no-cost program that helps internationally educated professionals (IEPs) understand and move through the licensure and credential process in Canada.  Those who are not part of a regulated profession will be provided with up-to-date information about their career. Bredin staff will support IEPs through the process and help them find jobs that directly relate to their education.

Continuing Your IT Education in Canada

Some companies provide financial support to employees for professional development. Because IT technology changes so rapidly, you need to upgrade your skills regularly to stay relevant and competitive in your field.

Colleges and universities offer many IT continuing education courses. Taking these courses is a good way to upgrade your skills. And often these courses are offered after business hours which makes them easy to attend after your workday.
If you want to make a career change or enhance your career options, you may be interested in pursuing further education in Canada. Click here for links to Canadian Universities and Colleges.

IT Schools in Canada

There are over 50 schools in Canada offering IT courses, programs, and degrees. They are available at the college, university, and graduate levels.

Information Technology Associations in Canada

The following associations provide information about licensure and certification and offer professional development, education, and networking opportunities.

ICTC – Information and Communications Technology Council: strives to create a strong, aware, prepared, and better-educated Canadian ICT industry and workforce.

CIPS – Canadian Information Processing Society: a non-profit professional association for IT practitioners. It offers networking opportunities, certification (I.S.P. and ITCP), accreditation of IT post-secondary programs, a niche IT job board, and represents Canadian IT professionals in international forums.

CWTA – Canadian Wireless Telecommunications Association: is the authority on wireless issues, developments, and trends in Canada. It promotes the industry with a focus on the sector’s growth in Canada.

TECHNATION: is a leading national technology association committed to increasing Canada’s global competitiveness in tech and innovation.

Professional Immigrant Networks

Professional immigrant networks are organized, volunteer-run member-based networks created by and for immigrants to:

• create a forum to contribute to and enrich their respective communities; and
• provide opportunities for their members to find meaningful employment and achieve their professional goals.

These networks offer mentoring, information sessions, professional development, workshops, speaker events, and connections to jobs.

For example, there is isans: Immigrant Services Association of Nova Scotia. isans helps newcomer professionals integrate economically and socially in Nova Scotia.

Hispanotech.ca brings Hispanics in Canada’s technology markets together, to help them enter the workforce and recognize their contributions to the technology field.

How Much Do IT Professionals Make in Canada?

IT professionals are well paid. How much you can make depends on your job title, experience, skills, and your location. IT jobs are mainly full-time positions, but they can also be part-time jobs, contract jobs, or project-based jobs.

The average annual salary for an IT professional is just over $70,000 annually. This is about $36 per hour. Salary can range from about $50,000 to over $100,000 per year.

IT Salary in Canada by Region

IT Salary in Canada by Job Title

Best Provinces to Work in IT in Canada Based on Salary & Lifestyle

You can find IT jobs in most Canadian cities, however, the Greater Toronto Area and Ottawa offer the highest concentration of IT jobs. Other cities to consider for IT jobs include, Markham, Kitchener-Waterloo, Montreal, and Vancouver. Montreal is the heart of the gaming industry in Canada and Vancouver has many companies in the commercial/entertainment development sector. Markham is the second-largest tech cluster in Canada.

Pursuing an IT Career in Canada

There are many ways to start an IT career in Canada with the right academic credentials, relevant work experience, and a plan for where you want to work. Below is valuable information to help you pursue an IT career in Canada:

Major Employers for Information Technology Jobs in Canada

According to Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada, about 45,000 companies operate in the Canadian IT sector. 91% of these companies are in the software and computer services industries, 4% are in the IT wholesaling industries, and 2% are in manufacturing.

Canadian IT companies employ around 555,978 employees and generate about 168 billion dollars. As well, many people work in the information technology departments of Canadian companies that use technology such as banking, insurance, healthcare, and retail.

You can also learn about Canadian companies by visiting Canada’s Best Diversity Employers website. These employers have been recognized for exceptional diversity and inclusiveness programs in the workplace.

Here are some of the top IT companies in Canada:

• Snapcommerce
• Google
• Microsoft
• Intuit
• Infosys
• Apple
• Sage
• SAP
• Salesforce
• Ericsson
• Computan
• Cisco
• Intel
• Oracle.

How to Become an IT Professional in Canada

If you are a new immigrant to Canada and have an interest in working in IT, these are important steps to follow:

• Choose an area of interest: What type of IT job would you like to pursue? Do you have an interest in web development, coding, database management, or software development? 

• Get an undergraduate degree/diploma: Choose a college or university program to help you get the educational background you need for your chosen IT career. 

• Complete post-graduate education: Some professions will require you to complete a post-graduate diploma. Complete this if required. 

• Get certified: Complete any certification courses and complete all requirements. This may be ongoing. You can add additional certifications as you progress in your career. 

• Search for IT jobs: Start your search for your first job in IT.

How to Find Your First Canadian IT Job

Searching for an IT job in Canada is unique based on your chosen career. The job market in Canada is competitive for IT careers.

Job Search Techniques for IT Professionals

You may need some help, especially since finding a job in Canada may be very different than in your home country. Fortunately, there are many settlement services to help you search for jobs, update your resume, write cover letters, and prepare for job interviews. Click here to find immigrant services in your area.

There are many that you can search for IT jobs in Canada:

• Broaden your search and include other geographical areas, alternative careers, and companies outside the sector, as a lot of them have IT departments or positions.

• Join job-finding or networking groups in the IT sector through settlement agencies.

• Attend career/job fairs, info sessions, and conferences related to the IT sector.

• Do volunteer work to gain Canadian work experience.

• Seek an IT mentor who could give you valuable advice and introduce you to their professional network.

Resume Writing Tips for IT Jobs in Canada

It’s best to write your resume with prospective employers and hiring managers in mind. Your resume should show that you can participate in project planning activities with your team and as a group and be able to peer review your team members to help each other reach the end goal.

Suppose you are a Software Developer, for example. In that case, your resume should show your ability to contribute to the design, development, and release of software updates to a product that’s used by thousands of customers.

Resume Tips:

• Have a portfolio and include samples of your work.

• Highlight your technical skills and your teamwork, leadership, communications, and business experience.

• List specific skills such as database design, Linux, software development, HTML, JavaScript, technical support, etc.

• Ask someone to review your resume and provide feedback.

Below are some examples of common phrases that your resume should include:

• Develop and analyze technical designs and requirements to meet functional specifications.

• Review programming code to ensure development standards are compatible with the software.

• Adapt to changing technology by learning and applying new methods to achieve organizational goals.

• Provide technical support to ensure the stability of networks and applications; diligently respond to user issues.

Interview Techniques for IT Jobs in Canada

IT professionals work in dozens of fields. Therefore, how you prepare for an IT job interview will depend on what type of position you are pursuing.

One way you can separate yourself from the pack is by creating a work portfolio. It expresses what you may not be able to put into words. In addition to taking your portfolio to the interview, you can send a link to the interviewer ahead of time. This way, they can review the portfolio and you can discuss it during the interview.

Informational Interviews Can Help You Learn More About IT Job Requirements in Canada

Reach out to people you might know who work in IT companies or other organizations that you’re interested in working for. Ask them if they will be willing to connect you with someone in the company who works in your related field of expertise. Contact the individual and ask to meet with them at their convenience.

Connecting with people will expand your professional network, give you an insight into their company and help you understand IT job requirements in Canada.

You should not try to get a job during an informational interview but rather find out whether a particular position or employer fits your skills, experience, and interests.

An information interview with a contact from your network can be a great source of career information. In addition to gaining information about the IT industry, you’ll also benefit from learning about their first-hand work experience.

Networking

Networking is a key activity that can help you to find job leads, and gain insights into specific companies and the IT industry. Often, many job vacancies are not advertised, so, connecting with other IT professionals is a great way to discover jobs in what’s known as the “hidden job market”.

Ideal places to network include conferences, association events, and social mixers where you can meet people, build relationships, and share information.

LinkedIn is another important tool for networking and it’s a great way to reconnect with former colleagues and employers, search for companies and jobs, and get helpful introductions to others in the field. Also, you can join related IT groups and engage in group discussions.

Note that it’s not appropriate to ask a networking contact for a job, but if they know of any job leads, they’ll likely share that information with you. Your network can be a great source to learn about IT jobs in Canada.

Remember, that you must allow time to cultivate and grow the ties you establish through networking. Be patient because these relationships take time.

With a positive outlook for IT jobs in Canada, now is the time to check out your options.

Accounting jobs are a popular career choice that employs more than 200,000 people in Canada. Prepare yourself to continue your accounting career in Canada with this helpful overview of job requirements, salaries, and job search techniques. Accountants play an essential role in helping organizations manage the financial function of their business. Currently, many companies need professionals to fill accounting jobs. So, there is a great opportunity for newcomers and internationally trained professionals.  

How to Immigrate to Canada as an Accountant

Accounting is a professional career that requires certification. Accounting job requirements in Canada for chartered professional accountants (CPA), and chartered accountants (CA) require a university degree. Also, you must complete a professional training program approved by a provincial Institute of Chartered Accountants. Some provinces will also require either two years or 30 months of on-the-job training and membership in a provincial Institute of Chartered Accountants upon completing the Uniform Evaluation Exam.

If you plan to continue your career in Canada, getting organized before you arrive is important. If you plan to offer public accounting services, such as auditing the financial statements of corporations, each province and territory has different licensing requirements. Inquire about this when you contact the regulatory body in the province where you plan to settle.

Things To Do Before You Move to Canada to Continue Your Accounting Career

There are steps that you can take before you move to Canada to improve your chances of continuing your accounting career when you arrive in Canada:

• Attend the Working in Canada webinar to learn about the labour market.

• Contact the provincial or territorial accounting regulatory body in the province where you intend to settle. They can provide details about the accountant licensing process and job requirements.

• Check with the regulatory body about other documents you need to bring and verify if the documents need to be translated. You may need to use a professional translation service in Canada.

• Gather and organize your official education, work, and identity documents while still in your home country.

• Research information about accounting salaries and benefits.

• Improve your language skills in English or French and enroll in language classes while you are in your home country.

What to Expect When Pursuing an Accounting Career in Canada

Understanding accounting job requirements can help you find work faster when you arrive in Canada. Newcomers to Canada often discover that they struggle to find work in their chosen profession after they arrive.  This is also true for accountants who will have to get accounting qualifications recognized and gain Canadian work experience.

Financial auditors and accountants belong to a regulated profession in Canada. And each province and territory regulate the profession. In Canada, the Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) is a highly sought business and accounting designation.

Employment Outlook for Accounting Jobs in Canada 

Job prospects for accountants can vary in Canada. Therefore, it’s vital to research provincial and local job prospects and labour markets carefully. This will allow you to match your skills and experience with the accounting job requirements across Canada. This knowledge may even inform the city that you choose to settle in Canada.

Based on the prospects from the Government of Canada Job Bank, the market for accounting jobs is relatively balanced. But there are still a lot of opportunities for newcomers looking to start accounting careers. Projections are good in all provinces and territories across the country. Plus, accounting salaries in Canada are excellent.

Start Your Research with the NOC Code for Accounting Jobs in Canada

The National Occupational Classification (NOC) code for financial auditors and accountants is NOC 11100. The NOC provides a standard definition of accounting jobs in Canada and is used by various groups, including job seekers. Before searching for an accounting job, it’s helpful to read the NOC description to ensure that you perform similar job duties in your home country. You can also find example job titles that accountants use in Canada. This will be helpful when you begin your job search.

Requirements to Continue Your Accounting Career in Canada

The process to become an accredited accountant in Canada depends on your status.

• Are you a professional accountant in your home country?

• Are you a new graduate from an international accounting school? 

• Do you have foreign accounting work experience? 

• Are you licensed in another country?

Your current status will determine your next steps. These steps could involve credential recognition, upgrading your skills, completing a bridging program, or pursuing further accounting education.

Credential Recognition to Meet Accounting Job Requirements in Canada

Provincial and territorial accounting associations provide information about the steps you must take to practice accounting in Canada. However, in most cases, they cannot assess your credentials before you arrive in Canada. For this purpose, you need to contact the national association that governs your branch of the accounting profession. Either they offer the assessment services or they can recommend evaluation services.

Credential Assessment Services

If you are applying to a Canadian university, you may need your academic credentials assessed. And in some cases, an employer may request your academic assessment. You can contact one of the following agencies for assistance:

World Education Services (WES) – Ontario

International Qualifications Assessment Service (IQAS) – Alberta

The International Credential Evaluation Service (ICES) – British Columbia

The Canadian Information Centre for International Credentials (CICIC)

The Alliance of Credential Evaluation Services of Canada

To find more organizations and agencies that provide credential evaluation, assessment, and qualification recognition services click here.

Upgrading Your Skills to Meet Accounting Job Requirements

To become a licensed accountant, you will have to complete an accredited program of study, supervised work experience, and a professional ethics exam. Skills upgrading courses and bridging programs can help you to obtain your license.

Employers in Canada require accountants to have advanced math and finance skills. You are also expected to have strong communication and interpersonal skills, business and report writing skills, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. You’ll also be expected to be familiar with accounting software programs and applications. 

You may also need training or skills upgrading to enhance your “soft skills”. Soft skills can help you to get a job and successfully achieve your career goals. For example, in Canada, effective communication skills are essential and are as important as hard skills. And, if you are applying for a management position, soft skills are even more valuable than technical skills. Having strong soft skills can also help you increase your accounting salary.

Language Training for Accounting Careers in Canada

Even though accountants work with numbers, communication is a vital part of working in accounting careers. Improving your verbal and written language skills can help. You may be eligible for Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) program. Otherwise, you can find free or affordable English as a Second Language (ESL) or French as a Second Language (FSL) classes at school boards or settlement agencies. 

There are even language courses that teach professional terminologies, such as job-specific language training and occupation-specific language Training (OSLT) in Ontario. And, if you already speak one of Canada’s two official languages at a high level, learning the other one is a good option, as it may offer you better job opportunities.

Bridging Programs for Accounting Careers in Canada

Bridging programs help internationally educated and trained accountants develop the professional competencies required to work in Canada. Here are some of the schools and organizations offering bridging programs:

York University Bridging Program for Internationally Educated Professionals

CPAC Bridging Program for Internationally Trained Accounting Professionals

University of Lethbridge – CPA Bridging

isans: Internationally Educated Accountants Bridging Program

Accounting Schools in Canada

More than 100 post-secondary institutions offer college, university, and post-graduate accounting programs. You can choose programs that specialize in specific types of accounting. Some of the top 10 accounting schools in Canada:

Accounting Associations in Canada

Canadian accounting associations can provide information about certification, professional development, education, and accounting job requirements.

National Accounting Associations

Chartered Professional Accountants of Canada (CPA Canada)

Provincial/Territorial Regulatory Bodies

Alberta

CPA-Alberta

British Columbia

CPABC

Manitoba

CPAMB

New Brunswick

CPA New Brunswick

Newfoundland and Labrador

CPANL

Northwest Territories

CPA Northwest Territories/Nunavut

Nova Scotia

CPA Atlantic

Ontario

CPA Ontario

Prince Edward Island

CPA Prince Edward Island

Quebec

CPA Quebec

Saskatchewan

CPA Saskatchewan

Yukon

Institute of Chartered Accountants of the Yukon Territory (ICAY)

Immigrant Networks for Accounting Careers

Professional immigrant networks are volunteer-run member-based associations or networks created by and for immigrant professionals that seek to:

• create a forum to contribute to and enrich their respective communities; and

• provide opportunities for members to find meaningful employment and achieve their professional goals.

These groups offer networking events, mentoring, information sessions, professional development opportunities, and connections to job opportunities.

Association of Filipino Canadian Accountants (AFCA)

AFCA is a non-profit organization based in Toronto. AFCA is affiliated with the National Council of Philippine-American Canadian Accountants (NCPACA), an umbrella organization of Filipino accounting associations from 10 major cities in North America. Membership includes designated accountants and students with various accounting bodies in Canada, the United States and the Philippines who work in various accounting capacities.

Canadian-Chinese Professional Accountants Association (CCPAA-ON)

CCPAA-ON provides a medium for its members to share views and experiences. Its members include professional accountants and students from all three of Canada’s accounting bodies (i.e. CA, CGA, and CMA). Other financial professionals who have joined CCPAA include actuaries, bankers, and financial advisers.

Institute of Chartered Accountants of India – Toronto Chapter (ICAI)

ICAI – Toronto Chapter is a not-for-profit organization in Toronto, Canada for the Alumni (i.e. Associate and Fellow members) of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI). The primary objective of the Toronto Chapter is to provide networking and professional development opportunities to its members.

Sri Lankan Accountants Association of Canada (SAAC)

SAAC works to enhance the knowledge of its members and provide professional development activities, job opportunities, as well as social interaction for members.

How Much Do Accountants Make in Canada?

The average accounting salary in Canada is $38.46 per hour, according to the Government of Canada Job Bank. How much you make per hour ranges from $19.95/hour in Nova Scotia to $90.98/hour in Northwest Territories. 

The highest average accounting salary per hour is in Northwest Territories ($90.98/hour). Alberta follows at $44.18/hour, and Saskatchewan at $40.87/hour.

When you what to expect to earn as an accountant in Canada, you can assess a fair market rate for your skills and experience.

Accounting Salary in Canada

In Canada, the average salary for accounting jobs can vary based on factors such as your specific role and the city you reside. However, salaries can be quite high and many positions have opportunities for advancement over time.

As well, accountants are in demand across Canada and this will also influence salaries. For immigrants to Canada, this can be a benefit as companies will look to recruit new employees from around the world.

Below is accounting salary information by province.

While these figures show an average wage per hour, this will vary based on the following factors:

• Your specific accounting role and specialization (for example payroll; taxation; auditing; etc.)

• Your level of experience, education, and designations you hold

• The job outlook for accounting and finance jobs

• Provincial and regional labour market conditions.

To understand what you can expect to earn, it’s important to research all of these factors. Your research will give you a better understanding of the salary ranges. This information will also be helpful when you apply for jobs in Canada and negotiate your salary.

Additional Compensation for Accounting Jobs in Canada

In addition to a yearly salary, you can expect to receive a benefits package from your employer. Most employers offer accountants a generous benefits package as part of a total compensation package.

These benefits may include things such as:

• Dental insurance

• Supplemental medical insurance

• Short-term and long-term disability insurance

• Pension plan for your retirement

• Bonus pay

• Stock options

• And other incentives.

With these additional benefits, an average salary for accounting jobs in Canada is very rewarding.

Best Cities to Work in Canada Based on Accounting Salary & Lifestyle

Since every business needs accountants, most Canadian cities offer employment opportunities in the accounting sector. However, large cities such as Toronto, Vancouver, and Calgary have a higher concentration of financial companies. So, there will be more accounting career opportunities in these areas. Larger cities also typically have a higher average accounting salary than smaller cities.

Pursuing an Accounting Career in Canada

In Canada, accountants can work in different types of organizations and perform many functions. Accountants can work in:

• Accounting firms

• Banks 

• Financial institutions

• Government

• Education institutions

• Hospitals

• Tax preparation companies

• Law offices

• Private businesses.

Some of the main functions include:

• Creating financial statements

• Taxation

• Manage banking

• Bookkeeping

• Invoicing

• Accounts payable and receivable

• Financial audits

• Consulting

• Payroll.

Major Employers for Accounting Jobs in Canada

There are more than 28,000 businesses offering accounting services in Canada. Some of the top accounting employers in Canada include:

• Deloitte LLP

• KPMG LLP

• PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC)

• Ernst & Young

• MNP LLP

• BDO Canada LLP

You can also visit Canada’s Best Diversity Employers. The award recognizes Canada’s best employers for diversity and inclusion programs.

How to Find Your First Accounting Job in Canada

To continue your accounting career in Canada, your first step is to ensure you get credential recognitions for your international education and experience. 

The next step is to look for an accounting job in Canada. However, looking for an accounting job in Canada may differ from your home country, but these tips can help you with your job search.

Job Search Techniques for Accounting Jobs

The Canadian job market is very competitive, so prepare and understand the steps to follow to gain employment. As well, finding a job in Canada may be very different than in your home country.

Here are a few helpful ways that you can search for accounting jobs:

• Connect with settlement agencies to learn about job-finding or networking clubs for accounting professionals.

• Attend accounting-related career fairs and information sessions and regularly check online job boards.

• Seek out a mentor in the accounting sector who can give you valuable advice and probably introduce you to their professional network.

• Have a strong and active presence on social media channels such as LinkedIn.

• Join accounting groups on LinkedIn where you can contribute content, ask questions, build connections, and also learn about the profession in Canada.

Settlement Agencies

Finding a job in Canada may be different than in your home country and you may need to find jobs, update your resume, write cover letters, and prepare for interviews. Most settlement agencies provide free employment services to help with your job search.

Writing Your Accounting Resume

A strong resume can help you to stand out among other job applicants. These tips can help you to highlight your specific traits and abilities clearly and concisely. Importantly, you want to describe your career accomplishments and the results that you achieved.

• Include an Objective statement below your contact information. This statement clearly outlines your professional objectives, career goals, and specific areas of interest in the accounting field.

• Include a summary of your qualifications below your objective using three to five bullet points.

• List your work experience in reverse chronological order.

• Identify your achievements instead of listing job responsibilities. Employers want to hear about your achievements, and listing tasks will not make you stand out from other job seekers.

• Include titles that pertain to the accounting industry and show your tax, management, and leadership competencies.

• List your professional experience at the top of your resume if you have extensive experience.

• List your education in reverse chronological order and include the school(s) you attended, your location, graduation date, and any professional qualifications you hold.

• Ask someone such as an employment counsellor or job developer to review your resume before you begin to apply for jobs.

Informational Interviews Can Help You Learn about Accounting Job Requirements in Canada

An information interview is a great way to learn about accounting job requirements in Canada. Typically, this is a 20 – 30 minute meeting you schedule with an accountant to learn more about the profession in Canada.

You should not try to get a job during an informational interview but rather find out whether or not a particular position or industry might be a good fit for you, An informational interview with a contact from your network can be a great source of career information. For example, in addition to gathering industry information, you also benefit from hearing about your contact’s first-hand experience within the accounting profession and industry.

Networking for an Accounting Career

Networking is a key activity that can help you discover job leads, gather advice and information about a particular company or industry, and meet others so that you can expand your network.

Good places to network, build relationships, and share information include conferences, associations, and education events.

LinkedIn is another important networking tool. It is great to connect with former colleagues and employers, search for companies, and learn about accounting job requirements in Canada.

You can also build your network with people in the accounting sector and join related professional groups.

Interview Techniques for Accounting Jobs

Most interviews for accounting positions will follow a standard structure including: Introduction, Setting the Scene, Exploration, Selling, and Closure. Naturally, questions will vary depending on the employer, the job level, your experience, and the company’s recruitment practice. However, here are some key areas that interviewers will assess:

In Canada, behavioural-based interviews are quite common. The interviewer(s) will ask questions to explore your actions or behaviours from past activities to discover how you would perform in the job that you are interviewing for. Your response to these questions should clearly demonstrate the situation or task, the actions you took, and the final result.

Training and Qualifications to Meet Accounting Job Requirements

Expect questions that explore your accounting training, plans to become a chartered professional accountant, qualifications, and understanding of the accounting practice in Canada.

Core Competencies

This relates to key skills for accounting job requirements such as analytical skills, communication skills, and the ability to work to tight deadlines and deliver quality and accurate output.

Personality and Motivation

These questions tend to explore how you plan to develop your finance skills and your overall career goals.

If you are applying for more senior Finance positions, expect questions that explore your ability to coach and lead an accounting team, and your ability to build relationships and generate income streams.

Sample Interview Questions

When preparing for your interview, here are some sample questions you can expect to answer for accounting jobs including Analysts and Auditors, Management, Financial and Project Accountants, etc.

• ‘What accounting software do you regularly use and what are the advantages and disadvantages?’

• ‘Describe a time when you had to work exceptionally hard to provide great service to a customer or client. What did you do and what was the outcome?’

• ‘Give me an example of the different approaches you have used when persuading your team, colleagues, or manager to agree with your views.’

• ‘Talk me through an example of how you have used data to improve your team’s productivity.’

In addition to preparing for questions you might be asked during interviews, you should also prepare questions you would like to ask. Researching the company will help you to learn about the company, showcase your interest, and help to craft intelligent questions.

Asking Smart Questions During Your Interview

The interview is a good opportunity to discover how you can progress within the company, like moving from senior associate to managing director. Asking about career paths shows that you are forward-thinking, focused on your career, and able to grow and develop within the firm.

Be sure to ask thoughtful questions and avoid questions where the answer can be found on the company’s website. For example, you may want to inquire about a recent regulatory change and how the organization expects to respond.

Corporate culture is prized at many of the top accounting firms. The interview is a great opportunity to learn about the organizational culture. What is the best way to get a true sense of the company culture? Ask your interviewer why they work there and what keeps them there. Their answer will reveal what you can expect to experience if you join the company.

With a positive outlook for accounting jobs in Canada, now is the time to check out your options. Interested in learning more about working in Canada? Check out our Finding a Job in Canada resource page. We can help you achieve your career goals in Canada.

Are you interested in continuing your software developer career in Canada? The IT industry in Canada is robust and expanding. With its reputation as a technology leader, Canada stands out as one of the best countries globally for building a software developer career. Software developers are a high-demand occupation in Canada. In May 2023, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) included this STEM occupation in Canada’s first-ever launch of category-based selection for Canada’s Express Entry system. There are many jobs available, and software developer salaries are attractive. This helpful overview provides information to help you research the profession, understand software developer job requirements, explore salaries in Canada, and more!

Typically, most software development positions in Canada require a university degree or college diploma, coupled with relevant work experience in a specialized field. While most software jobs are not regulated in Canada, many employers do require professional IT and software certifications, depending on the specific job requirements.

One of the great aspects of working in software development is the openness of Canadian employers to hire immigrants and newcomers. To ensure your eligibility, it is crucial to follow the appropriate steps.

How to Immigrate to Canada as a Software Developer

Before You Move to Canada to Pursue a Software Developer Career

The steps to secure a software developer job in Canada vary depending on your chosen career path. So, it’s vital to research the specific requirements for the job you aspire to. For instance, if your goal is to work as an app developer, you should research job requirements for software app developers in Canada.

To enhance your chances of finding a software developer job in Canada, there are general steps you can take even before your arrival:

• Attend the free webinar How to Find Your First Job in Canada as a Newcomer to learn about the job market in Canada.

• Take an online Canadian Language Benchmarks self-assessment to assess your language skills.

• Improve your English or French language skills (depending on your destination province). You will need to prove your language competency or be tested.

• Take language classes while you’re in your home country and continue them when you arrive in Canada.

• Understand how to practice your job in Canada and become familiar with the laws and legislation that govern it in the province where you will settle.

• Know the name of your job in Canada and learn about the specific software developer job requirements in Canada.

• Look into certification requirements and skill development options if you need to upgrade.

• Research software developer salaries and compensation information.

• Research Canadian companies and join software development groups on LinkedIn to learn about the industry in Canada.

What to Expect When Pursuing a Software Developer Career in Canada

In Canada, there are many software developer career paths with distinct qualification requirements. So, it’s important to understand how your international qualifications meet Canadian standards. Additionally, gaining insights into the Canadian labour market and workplace culture is important. Understanding the job market and employment outlook will help you to set realistic job search expectations.

Employment Outlook for Software Developer Jobs in Canada 

Over 200,000 people work in software development in Canada. Even so, according to the Government of Canada Job Bank, they forecast a labour shortage from 2022-2031. This means there will be job opportunities for newcomers with skills, experience, and qualifications.

Start Your Research with the Software Developer NOC Code

The National Occupational Classification (NOC) provides a general overview and standard definition of software developer careers in Canada. The five-digit NOC code 21232 applies to:

• Software developers

• Software programmers

• Software development project managers

• Application programmers

• E-business software developers

• Multimedia developers

• Interactive media developers

• Computer game developers

You can review this information to understand the main duties and employment requirements.

Requirements to Become a Software Developer in Canada

To work as a software developer in Canada, you typically need a bachelor’s degree in computer science, software development, app development, computer systems engineering, or software engineering. Alternatively, completion of a college program in computer science may also be accepted. In some cases, employers may require candidates to hold a master’s or doctoral degree in a related field. However, if you plan to work as a software engineer, you must be a Professional Engineer (P. Eng.) and obtain a license to practice from a provincial or territorial association of professional engineers. Software engineers belong to a regulated profession in Canada.

Credential Recognition to Meet Software Developer Job Requirements in Canada

Several agencies in Canada assess international education credentials to help newcomers access education and employment opportunities. In Canada, software developers belong to a non-regulated profession. However, some employers may require specific IT certifications to be eligible for software developer jobs.

If you want to apply to a college or university to upgrade your skills, you may need an education evaluation. But, before you pay for an education evaluation, contact the school that you’re applying to and find out what steps to follow and what credential assessment agency to use. Some schools request that you use a specific agency. So taking this step can save you time and money.

It’s vital to emphasize your international education and skills for an education evaluation. Expand upon your existing knowledge and abilities and thoroughly explore university and college options before deciding if further education is necessary. Leverage your international credentials and experience to seek credit or course exemptions. You may have the opportunity to gain advanced standing, transfer certain credits, and benefit from prior learning assessment options. These avenues will enable you to complete your program faster and avoid expenses for education you have already completed.

Credential Assessment Services

Some of the assessment credential services in Canada include:

World Education Services (WES) – Ontario

International Qualifications Assessment Service (IQAS) – Alberta

The International Credential Evaluation Service (ICES) – British Columbia

To find more assessment services here.

Upgrading Your Skills to Meet Software Developer Job Requirements

You may need to upgrade your skills, especially your soft skills, to meet software developer job requirements in Canada. 

Canadian employers look for friendly and assertive professionals with strong communication skills. They also look for people who will fit into their workplace culture and will become leaders over time. In the IT field, they expect employees to have a strong understanding of the business in addition to the technical aspects of the job. They encourage employees to upgrade their existing skills and acquire new skills.

Language Training for Software Developers in Canada

Strong skills in one or both of Canada’s official languages, English or French, are important for career success. Whether you focus on improving English or French depends on which of the two languages is mostly spoken in the area where you live.

There are Job-specific language training programs to teach you professional terminology. And, if you’re in Ontario there is the Occupation Specific Language Training (OSLT).

You may be eligible for the  Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) program. Or you can find other free or affordable classes in English as a Second Language (ESL) or French as a Second Language (FSL) classes through local school boards or settlement agencies.

Bridging Programs for Software Developer Careers in Canada

Bridging programs help people with international software development education and experience meet Canadian industry qualifications. Here are some newcomer bridging programs to explore:

• GO Talent: Global Onboarding of Talent 

• Algoma University: Computer Science Collaborative Online Bridging Program 

• York University: Bridging Program for Internationally Educated Professionals (IEPs)

• ACCES Employment: IT Connections: Digital Economy Connections

• Humber College: Bridging Program .NET Developer

• Humber College: IT Infrastructure Bridging Program

• Bredin Centre for Learning: Centre for Skilled and Internationally Trained Professionals

Software Developer Schools in Canada

Continuing your education is a great way to progress in your career in Canada. And, many Canadian colleges and universities offer software development programs. These schools offer software development programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels:

Colleges

Fanshawe College

Sheridan College

Humber College

Centennial College

Trinity Western University

Institute of Technology Development of Canada

Bow Valley College

Georgian College

Universities

University of Waterloo

Carleton University

University of Guelph

McGill University

University of Calgary

University of Ontario Institute of Technology

Software Developer Associations in Canada

Professional associations can be a valuable resource to help you advance your software developer career. The following associations provide information about licensure and certification and offer professional development, education, and networking opportunities.

• ICTC – Information and Communications Technology Council

• CIPS – Canadian Information Processing Society

• CWTA – Canadian Wireless Telecommunications Association

• TECHNATION.

Immigrant Networks

Professional immigrant networks are organized, volunteer-run member-based networks created by and for immigrants to:

• create a forum to contribute to and enrich their respective communities; and

• provide opportunities for their members to find meaningful employment and achieve their professional goals.

These networks offer mentoring, information sessions, professional development, workshops, speaker events, and connections to jobs. Here are a few examples:

• isans: Immigrant Services Association of Nova Scotia: isans helps newcomer professionals integrate economically and socially in Nova Scotia.

•  Hispanotech.ca: They bring together Hispanics in Canada’s technology markets, help them enter the workforce, and recognize their contributions to the technology field.

How Much Do Software Developers Make in Canada?

Software developer salaries can vary significantly based on your level of experience, job title, and location. According to the Government of Canada Job Bank, the median hourly software developer salary is $40.38. The median software developer salaries can range from $23.60 to $58.97 per hour.

Software Developer Salary in Canada

Alberta has the highest earning potential. Your hourly software developer salary could be up to $64.90 per hour. British Columbia and Ontario also have hourly software developer salaries can reach $60 or more. Here are the most recent software developer salary numbers in Canada (as of November 2022):

Best Provinces to Work in Canada as a Software Developer Based on Salary & Lifestyle

Like other IT careers, you can find software developer jobs in most Canadian cities, however, the Greater Toronto Area and Ottawa offer the highest concentration of jobs. One potential advantage of working in software development is the opportunity to work remotely. 

Other cities to consider for software developer jobs include, Markham, Kitchener-Waterloo, Montreal, and Vancouver. Montreal is the heart of the gaming industry in Canada and Vancouver has many companies in the commercial/entertainment development sector. Markham is the second-largest tech cluster in Canada.

Pursuing a Software Developer Career in Canada

To continue your software developer career in Canada, there are many avenues to explore, provided you possess the academic credentials, work experience, and a clear plan to work in your desired location.

Software Developer Employers in Canada

There are about 45,000 companies in the Canadian IT sector, according to Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada. 91% of these companies are in the software and computer services industries.

Some of the top software development companies in Canada include:

• Altus Group

• Shopify

• OpenText Corporation

• CGI Inc.

• Descartes Systems Group Inc.

• Constellation Software Inc.

• Hootsuite

• Prodigy.

You can also learn about Canadian companies by visiting Canada’s Best Diversity Employers website. These employers have been recognized for diversity, inclusion, and equity programs in the workplace.

How to Find Your First Software Developer Job in Canada

How you search for a software developer job will change based on your chosen career path. The job market in Canada is competitive for software developer careers. Here are tips to help you find your first job in Canada.

Job Search Techniques for Software Developers

You may need help with your job search, especially since finding a job in Canada may differ from your home country. Fortunately, there are settlement services to help you search for jobs, update your resume, write cover letters, and prepare for job interviews.

There are many ways to search for software developer jobs in Canada:

• Broaden your search and include cities across Canada, alternative careers, and companies outside the sector, as most will have IT departments.

• Join job-finding or networking groups in the software development sector through settlement agencies.

• Attend career/job fairs, info sessions, and related conferences.

• Browse online job boards to understand job requirements and current skills that employers are seeking.

• Volunteer to gain Canadian work experience.

• Find a mentor who can give you valuable advice and introduce you to their professional network.

Click here to find immigrant services in your area.

Networking for Software Developer Careers

Networking plays a crucial role in finding jobs and gaining insights into companies and the IT industry in Canada. Often, many companies do not advertise job vacancies, so networking is an effective way to tap into this ‘hidden job market.’ Connecting with fellow software developers can help you discover jobs in the hidden job market.

Conferences, association events, and social mixers are great venues to network and meet other professionals, build relationships, and exchange information.

LinkedIn is another valuable networking tool to connect with former colleagues and employers, search for companies and job openings, and meet other professionals in the field. Joining relevant software development groups and participating in group discussions can further expand your network.

When networking, it’s better to avoid directly asking for a job. However, if your contacts know of any job leads, they will likely tell you. Your network can serve as a valuable resource to learn about software development jobs in Canada.

Informational Interviews Can Help You Learn About Software Developer Job Requirements

Initiate contact with people who work in software companies and organizations that align with your career interests. Politely inquire if they would be open to connecting you with someone in the company who works in your field of expertise. Once connected, reach out to that individual, and request to meet with them at their convenience.

By meeting with others in the industry, you’ll expand your professional network, gain valuable insights into their company, and develop your understanding of software job requirements in Canada. It’s important to note that the purpose of an informational interview is not to secure a job, but rather to assess whether a specific position or employer aligns with your skills, experience, and interests.

An informational interview with a contact from your network can serve as a valuable source of career information. In addition to gaining insights about the software development industry, you will also benefit from their firsthand work experiences and guidance for your career path.

Resume Writing Tips

When crafting your resume, it’s helpful to keep the needs of hiring managers in mind. Your resume should demonstrate your ability to participate in project planning activities, collaborate effectively within a team, and engage in peer reviews to achieve common goals.

Additionally, emphasize your ability to design, develop, and release software updates for products. Consider these resume writing tips to showcase your qualifications and stand out as a strong candidate:

• Highlight both your technical skills and soft skills such as teamwork, leadership, and communication skills.

• List relevant skills such as database design, Linux, software development, HTML, JavaScript, and technical support.

• Ask someone to review your resume and provide constructive input.

Here are some examples of phrases that you might include in your resume:

• Develop and analyze technical designs and requirements to fulfill functional specifications.

• Review programming code to ensure adherence to software development standards.

• Adapt to evolving technologies by acquiring and applying new methodologies to achieve organizational objectives.

• Provide technical support to maintain network and application stability, and promptly address user issues.

Interview Techniques for Software Developer Jobs in Canada

Software developers have diverse roles and can work in many fields, which means that preparing for a software development job interview will depend on the specific position you are seeking.

When applying for software developer positions, employers expect candidates to have relevant experience and demonstrate their software development skills. This may involve presenting a portfolio of your work as part of the application process. This is a good strategy to set yourself apart from other candidates and tangibly showcase your skills and accomplishments.

In addition to bringing your portfolio to the interview, you can provide the interviewer with a link to your portfolio beforehand. The interviewer can review your work and learn more about your capabilities. During the interview, you can discuss your portfolio projects and achievements, and highlight your expertise and suitability for the position. Highlighting your practical and technical experience can enhance your chances of securing a job offer.