British Columbia is making headway in helping internationally trained professionals enter the workforce, according to the first annual report from the Office for International Credential Recognition.
The report shows steady progress since the International Credentials Recognition Act took effect July 1, 2024, covering 29 regulated professions. The legislation aims to create fairer, faster pathways for qualified professionals to work in BC regardless of where they received their training.
Key milestone approaching for employers
A significant change takes effect July 1, 2025, when regulatory authorities must eliminate Canadian work experience requirements. Instead, they will need to develop alternative assessment methods or apply for exemptions.
This shift could expand the talent pool for BC employers by allowing more applicants to prove their skills through competency assessments rather than local work history.
Progress made with regulators
Over the past year, the office has worked with regulatory bodies to help them understand and comply with the new requirements. This includes updating websites with clearer information and revising policies to align with the legislation.
The office has also focused on educating internationally trained professionals about the new processes and requirements for working in BC.
Oversight and accountability
The Office for International Credential Recognition monitors regulatory authorities covered under the act to ensure credential recognition remains fair, efficient and transparent. The superintendent must submit an annual report to the Minister of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills by May 31 each year.
The changes are expected to help address skills shortages in various sectors by tapping into the expertise of immigrants and other internationally trained workers already living in the province.
More information
For the full report, visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/governments/organizational-structure/ministries-organizations/regulatory-authorities/oicr/policies#annual-report
To read about the introduction of the International Credentials Recognition Act, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2024PSFS0022-000907
To learn more about international credential recognition, visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/governments/organizational-structure/ministries-organizations/regulatory-authorities/oicr
