Recognizing Credentials
If you are new to B.C. or are returning after work or study outside the province, you need to be sure that your qualifications are recognized in the province.
If you are a worker with professional designation, trade certificate or other specialized training, you should invesigate the resources provided below. Depending on your field, you may need to:
- find out how to get credit for courses completed outside of B.C. or take extra courses to ensure your knowledge fulfills industry requirements
- demonstrate your qualifications to industry officials
- write a test to prove your knowledge level
- find out about regulated occupations and what qualifications and credentials they require
- learn about programs that recognize foreign training and experience
Start with the B.C. Foreign Credentials Recognition website which provides an overview of foreign credential recognition. You can then get further assistance by contacting the International Credential Evaluation Service (ICES) which can work with you to assess your particular skills and qualifications. You may also find additional information through the Canadian Information Centre for International Credentials. They also have a page listing the National Professional Organizations in Canada. You may need to contact one of the organizations listed to find out about recognition for your specific career.
If you have a specific professional designation, use the Regulated Occupations in B.C. document to find the association which regulates your specific industry and contact them to determine what steps you need to take to have your designation recognized in B.C.
Labour Mobility refers to the ability of workers to practice their trade or profession anywhere in Canada. Visit the Human Resources and Skills Development Canada website for more on how labour mobility regulations apply in Canada.
For those with a trades certification, visit the Red Seal Program to find out how your out-of-province skills and experience can be recognized in B.C.
If you are an immigrant from outside of Canada, visit the Skills Connect for Immigrants Program to learn more about using your skills in B.C.