Improving foreign credential recognition processes in Canada

Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) Minister Diane Finley recently met with community leaders in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) to discuss thecurrent economic situation and how plans are moving along to improve the process of assessing and recognizing foreign credentials.

The Government of Canada's Economic Action Plan has set out $50 million over two years to develop a common approach to foreign credential recognition. Thegoal is to help newcomers get their internationally-obtained education and work experience assessed more quickly so that they can work in their fields andintegrate into the Canadian labour market more efficiently.

Earlier this year, provincial and territorial leaders agreed to develop a national framework by September 2009.

According to ESDC, the $50 million investment will be used to do the following:

Develop the principles that the federal, provincial, and territorial governments agree will guide the recognition of foreign credentials;
Develop standards for the timely treatment of those looking to have their qualifications recognized;
Establish the specific occupations that will be the first priority in developing recognition standards; and
Help people who want to come to Canada begin the process of licensure and accreditation while they are still overseas.