As a newcomer to Canada, you may be surprised to learn of the many free programs and services that are available to help you find a job in your community. These programs and services are designed to help you adapt to your new country. Of course for many newcomers, finding employment is a top priority.
To make things easier, here’s a list of programs and services available to you as a newcomer to help you find employment in BC.
Employment Programs and Services Through NewToBC
NewToBC offers a handy web resource to help you find employment programs in your community. While most programs are location-specific, some welcome clients from communities throughout the Lower Mainland. If you’re curious to see what is available in your area, simply head to the immigrant and refugee programs and services section on our website, select your community, and click on ‘Employment Services’ for a list of service providers.
You will find many gems, including, but not limited to:
- Archway Community Services – Archway offers a Career Mentors Program that connects newcomers with professionals of similar vocational or skilled backgrounds for coaching and advice in accessing the Canadian labour market. From providing informational interviews to attending networking events, their mentors assist newcomers in gaining valuable knowledge and an understanding of Canadian workplace culture and employment pathways in Canada.
- BACK in MOTION Career Paths for Skilled Immigrants – This program provides occupation-specific resources and support to help immigrant job seekers move into careers that match their qualifications. This free service is offered under the WelcomeBC umbrella, funded by the Government of Canada and the Province of British Columbia. This program can help you access funding for BC certifications or courses to meet Canada’s job requirements, help you gain valuable work experience, and connect with a mentor to make connections in your occupation.
- Burnaby Public Library – Join Burnaby Public Library for a tour of job search and career materials at the library. Learn about the hidden job market, how to research companies and explore careers and discover the resources available to help you with your resume, job interview, cover letters and networking.
- Douglas College – Career Paths For Skilled Immigrants This program provides eligible participants with the career coaching and resources needed to gain employment in your field of training and expertise. You will receive free coaching on licensing and regulatory requirements for your profession, a designated Career Coach for assistance and job search support, and funding towards a professional designation, English upgrading, or short-term training. This is a free program for internationally trained professionals who meet all edibility requirements.
- Vancouver Public Library – The Skilled Immigrant InfoCentre is an online and in-person resource centre that helps newcomers to Canada find the information they need to get a job, explore carers or start a business. They offer Employment Guides that include labour market outlook, wages/salary information, employment outlooks and more.
Find Help in Your Community
If you’re a newcomer to Canada, this is just a small sample of the many employment resources available to you as a newcomer to BC. Please take some time to review what services are offered in your community. The more you connect with these organizations, and meet the people who are there to help you, the closer you will be to your employment goals. Good luck!