Matthew Purdey | Manitoba Start
For internationally educated professionals seeking employment in a regulated profession in Canada, it is important to fully understand the qualification recognition process.
Qualification recognition involves verifying that pre-arrival education, training, skills, and practical work experience from outside Canada meet the required standards set by professional regulatory bodies within Canada. To get a job in a regulated profession in Manitoba—for example, as an engineer, accountant, nurse, or teacher—it is essential to have your credentials formally assessed and recognized. Completing qualification recognition will also help employers to understand your skill set.
From my experience as a career development practitioner and having coached many skilled immigrants through the qualifications recognition process, three characteristics stand out as keys to success: preparation, patience, and perseverance.
Preparation
Because there are many regulatory bodies in Manitoba and they each have different requirements, it is important to prepare in advance.
•Research the regulator for your specific occupation. Learn about Manitoba’s regulated professions and trades at www.immigratemanitoba.com.
•Learn as much as possible about the steps in the qualification recognition process, how the steps apply to you, and which third-party organizations (for example, a university or institute) may be involved in the process.
•Collect and complete all necessary documentation; for example, application forms, educational documents (transcripts, degrees, certificates), or proof of language proficiency.
•Research, prepare, and study for exams or assessments. Research any requirements for entry into courses, gap training, or bridging programs to be sure that you meet the prerequisites.
•If applicable, plan and coordinate other forms of support; for example, financial support, child care, language training, or study groups.
Patience
One of the main factors involved in the qualification recognition process is time. In general, the process often takes months or years to complete.
•It will take time to collect and translate all required documents; time to complete credential assessments and improve language levels; time to save money for application, assessment, training, equipment, or registration costs; time to complete prerequisite courses or exams; and time to complete work experience requirements.
•The length of time it takes to complete the qualification recognition process will vary depending on the particular requirements of your profession’s regulatory body, how these apply to you, and the availability of courses or exams.
Perseverance
The road to qualification recognition is demanding; however, with perseverance and a positive attitude, this journey can be successfully completed.
•There are various forms of support that can help you build and maintain momentum, including profession-specific exam preparation resources, profession-specific English language training, study groups, test-taking skills courses, professional practice seminars, mentorship programs, and professional membership associations.
•The qualification recognition process can also be expensive. Be sure to research Employment Manitoba Funding and SEED Winnipeg (Recognition Counts program) to learn how these financial support options may assist you.
Internationally educated professionals thinking about qualification recognition have a lot to consider. However, by preparing thoroughly, progressing patiently and persevering wholeheartedly, licensing or registration with a regulatory body can be achieved, leading to job satisfaction and continued professional development within your field of expertise.
Matthew Purdey is a Career Coach and Career Services Supervisor at Manitoba Start. Manitoba Start connects business to a world-class workforce and supports newcomers with free career development and job matching services to achieve their professional goals and long-term career success in Canada.
