The timing for accountants looking to immigrate to Canada could not be better as there is a huge demand for accountants right now.
Several NOC codes for accountants can be found in the National Occupation Classification (NOC) under NOC 1111, NOC 1311, NOC 1431 and NOC 6411. The country is eager to welcome accountants, especially in the wake of the pandemic.
As one of the most influential and advanced countries in the world, the job opportunities and career developments for accountants are sky high, and best of all, you will always have job security. Canada is planning on welcoming hundreds and thousands of newcomers in 2022 alone, if you act fast, one of those newcomers could be you!
How to Immigrate to Canada as an Accountant?
As an accountant, there are a number of pathways that you can pursue the immigration process.
Immigration Programs for Accountants
The most popular ones used by applicants who are immigrating to Canada as an accountant are:
Express Entry
The Express Entry system manages applications from three main economic programs for individuals with skills and expertise in specific industries and fields.
As a prospective immigrant, you first need to verify whether you meet the eligibility requirements of any of the programs. Then you must create and submit a profile that will be evaluated and ranked. Candidates with the highest Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score are issued Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residency.
Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
PNP works in a similar fashion as the Express Entry system, except that it is narrowed down to one province. When people have a job offer from a province or they really want to settle in a specific province, it’s best to apply through a PNP stream for that province.
Since provinces are eager to welcome foreign talent to fill their labour shortages, the process moves quite efficiently and can take as little as six months from the date of initial application to becoming a permanent resident.
Immigration from Other English-Speaking Countries
Considering Immigrating to Canada as an accountant from the United States? You’re in luck. If you hold a U.S. CPA credential with a license that is in good standing, you may be eligible to obtain the Canadian designation via a mutual recognition agreement (MRA) that was established between the two countries. You will of course have to meet the criterion established in the agreement.
The same is true for accountants from the United Kingdom who are immigrating to Canada. The reciprocal membership agreement (RMA) between Canadian CPA bodies and the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales came into effect on November 1, 2018, and provides UK accountants with a pathway to the Canadian CPA designation.
Canadian CPA bodies and Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand (CA ANZ) also have an RMA in place for accountants from Australia.
Accountants from each of these countries will not only have an easier time transferring their educational and professional credentials into Canadian ones, but chances are high they will score well on the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS).
Similarities in culture, language and work environment are also big positives for these candidates seeking to find employment in Canada.
In fact, many young adults interested in immigrating to Canada take advantage of the IEC Working Holiday visa where countries enter a partnership with Canada allowing their foreign nationals to work in Canada for some time.
Work as an Accountant in Canada
Accounting is a highly specialized field requiring formal education; therefore, it can be difficult for a newcomer to arrive in Canada and land a senior role.
The simple reason being you need some time to familiarize yourself with Canadian taxes or Canadian rules on foreign income or payroll software. Depending on the kinds of jobs you’re applying for you, you may also need some Canadian certifications.
But with hard work and dedication, you can quickly move up the ladder to a high paying, challenging position.
Unsurprisingly, accountants make a very good living in Canada and earn on average close to $60,000 on the lower end, while a well-paid accountant can make close to $200,000.
How to Find a Job in Canada
If you’re looking for an accounting job in Canada, the best place to begin is online since that’s where most jobs are posted nowadays.
While a simple google search for ‘accounting jobs in Canada’ will yield dozens of results, some great sites to check out include:
- Accounting Jobs
- Randstad – this is an employment agency so you’ll have to connect with a recruiter to open a file
- ACCA
When submitting your resume and cover letter make sure to format them according to Canadian standards. After you receive the call for your interview, make sure to do some research on the company you’re interviewing at, dress professionally and have all your credentials on hand.
Where to Find Help with Immigration?
Ready to get started on your immigration to Canada journey? One of the best things you can do for yourself and your family is to hire the services of a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant.
These expert consultants will take the time to understand you and your goals and will be able to provide you with the best pathways to ensure your dreams come true. They will support and guide you every step of the way from your immigration application to preparing you for your job interviews.
Take advantage of their knowledge and experience to simplify the process for you!
