Through the Foreign Credential Recognition Program (FCRP), the Government of Canada supports the workplace integration of skilled newcomers by reducing barriers to foreign credential recognition; providing Canadian work experience; and providing loans to support the costs to having their credentials recognized.
The program invests approximately $21 million annually to support provinces and territories, regulatory bodies and other stakeholders to help skilled newcomers get their foreign credentials recognized more quickly and better support them to restart their professional careers in Canada.
The FCRP has two main activities:
1. Since 2003, the program has worked closely with its partners to improve credential recognition systems – focusing on streamlining regulatory processes and harmonization of occupational requirements.
2. In 2017, the program transitioned to also offer direct employment supports to skilled newcomers as they have shown promise in helping newcomers integrate into the Canadian labour market; including:
Loans – Micro-loans to cover FCR related expenses, as well as supports in navigating recognition processes and alternative careers.
Canadian Work Experience – Piloting workplace integration training, short term work placements and mentoring with industry professionals.
The regulation of occupations is mainly a provincial and territorial responsibility and is often further delegated to independent regulatory bodies. These organizations are primarily mandated through legislation to protect the integrity of professions and to protect the public.