Starting Your Career in Canada: A Guide for Newcomers from Newcomers

Arriving in Canada is exciting, though settling in can be challenging. From getting a SIN number and opening a bank account to finding housing and a job, there’s a lot to sort out. Should you stay in your field, go back to school, or start fresh? 

Maybe you’ve applied for jobs with little success or taken a minimum-wage job just to get by – now you’re feeling “too tired to work, too poor to quit.” Many newcomers face the same reality and search for a way forward. 

This article shares the experiences of Oraye S., Filipinas B., Edel U., Tolulope O., and Akshay D., newcomers to Canada who found success after graduating from Sundance College. Their insights offer a five-step plan to help you get started. 

Listen to: Starting Your Career in Canada: A Guide for Newcomers from Newcomers

Step 1. Analyze Your Career Pathways

Building a career in Canada starts with an important decision— continue in your current profession or transition to a new one. 

1. Staying in Your Field – Some professions require licenses, industry certifications, or additional training to meet Canadian job market requirements. It can take years to requalify, and you might start in a lower position than you previously held. 
2. Switching Careers – Transitioning to a new field often means gaining industry-relevant skills through education. Many career-focused programs allow you to enter the workforce quickly, though you may start at an entry level while gaining experience. 

Oraye S., a graduate of the Digital Marketing and Social Media Management diploma program, shared his experience:  

“I was a lawyer before moving to Canada, but I didn’t want to practice law here. The process to qualify was long, and my interest had shifted to communications after working in digital communications in Nigeria. Transitioning to a new field made more sense for me.” 

Oraye’s story shows how education can open doors. If you’re continuing in your profession, research the requirements, as well as the time and cost of upgrading your credentials. If you’re considering a new field, explore industries that interest you and look into diploma programs that can help you build the right skills. Taking the time to assess your options can make your next step clearer.  

Step 2: Research Education Requirements and Where to Learn

Once you have planned your career path, the next step is researching the credentials needed to move forward. Knowing what employers expect can help you choose the right education to support your goals. 

• Check Job Requirements: Job postings on JobBank, Indeed, and Glassdoor show the certifications, diplomas, or skills employers look for. 
• Find a Program That Fits: Career-focused programs, often about a year long, help you gain the right skills while balancing work and other commitments. 
• Choose the Right School: Look for institutions with flexible learning options, personalized support, and lifelong career services. 
• Pick a Learning Format That Works for You: Online, in-person, or hybrid—choose what fits your schedule. 

Filipinas B., a Medical Office Administration diploma program graduate, shared her experience: 

“I was hesitant to go back to school because I had already finished a four-year degree in the Philippines. But I wanted a change—not just for myself but for my family. With two kids, I needed something more stable. 

Taking online courses while caring for my newborn was challenging, but Sundance College was supportive. They responded quickly whenever I had questions and gave me the flexibility I needed to complete my program.” 

For many newcomers, career-focused programs provide industry-recognized diplomas that make it easier to study while managing personal and professional commitments. 

Step 3: Gain Career-Focused Education with Hands-On Training

For newcomers, transitioning into the Canadian job market can feel overwhelming—especially if your experience doesn’t align with local employer expectations. That’s where career-focused education makes a difference. 

Unlike theory-based programs, career colleges emphasize industry-relevant training, giving students hands-on experience with real-world projects and practical coursework. This approach ensures graduates are ready to step into their fields with the skills employers are looking for. 

Edel U., who moved to Canada from the Philippines and graduated from Sundance College’s Pharmacy Assistant diploma program, shared how this training helped her succeed. 

“I wanted to get familiar with the Canadian education system because I really didn’t have any background in how medications flow here. 

My program helped me understand how prescriptions move from doctors to pharmacies and then to patients. Now, in my workplace, my team leader and supervisor come to me with questions about medication because they know I studied this course.” 

This kind of training extends past the classroom, helping students build the skills and connections needed to succeed. 

Career College Benefits: 

Benefit	How It Helps
Financial Aid Support	Guidance on applying for government grants and loans.
Industry-Relevant Programs	Training that aligns with employer expectations.
Flexible Learning Options	Online and in-person study choices.
Practical Experience	Hands-on training through practicums.
Networking and Mentorship	Connections with industry professionals.
Career Services	Personalized support with resumes, interviews, and job placement.

Step 4: Get Practical Work Experience in a Canadian Workplace

Work experience plays a major role in securing a job in Canada. A practicum placement as part of your diploma program, allows you to apply your skills, adapt to the Canadian workplace culture, and connect with employers. 

Tolulope O., a newcomer to Canada and graduate of the Addictions and Community Health Professional diploma program, shared how her practicum prepared her for the workforce: 

“As a new immigrant, I did my practicum with private personal care services, where I provided support through counseling. I worked closely with doctors and nurses, which was a valuable experience.” 

How a Practicum Helps You Succeed: 

Benefit	How It Helps
Showcase Your Abilities	Apply your skills in a real workplace and make a strong impression.
Gain Work Experience	Build experience that aligns with Canadian workplace standards.
Build Connections	Network with colleagues and mentors, opening doors to job opportunities.

A practicum increases your chances of securing employment in your field and provides valuable industry experience.

Step 5: Increase Your Job Market Visibility

Building a professional network is one of the biggest challenges for newcomers in Canada. A career college can help by introducing you to classmates, instructors, and industry professionals through work placements and networking events. These connections can provide valuable job leads and mentorship opportunities. 

Beyond the college environment, expanding your network further can open even more doors. Here’s how to make yourself more visible in the job market: 

1. Attend Industry Events – Meet professionals, stay informed about industry trends, and discover job opportunities. 
2. Join Professional Associations – Connect with others in your field and gain access to exclusive job boards and networking opportunities. 
3. Use social media – Build connections on LinkedIn, join industry groups, follow companies, and engage with content. 

Taking these steps allows employers to see your skills and experience, increasing your chances of finding the right job opportunity. 

How Do Career Colleges Support Newcomers?

Starting a career in Canada comes with challenges, but the right education, hands-on training, and industry connections can make the transition easier. Whether you’re upgrading your credentials, gaining in-demand skills, or preparing for a new field, career-focused education helps you move forward with confidence. 

At Sundance College, our diploma programs align with employer expectations, combining practical training, financial aid support, and job placement assistance to help students enter the workforce. 

For many newcomers, financial aid makes education more accessible. 

Akshay D., who moved to Canada from India and graduated from Sundance College’s Hospitality Business Management program, shared: 

“Even though I was familiar with the admissions process, I still reached out to the financial aid team at Sundance College. 

They walked me through everything, making it easy to apply for funding. Within two and a half to three days, my entire application was processed, and I was able to secure financial support for my studies.” 

Along with financial aid, career-focused programs offer the connections and resources to help graduates find jobs. Many secure employment through networking, career services, and practicum placements. Flexible learning options also make it easier to balance education with work and family. 

Connect with us today to explore your options and take the next step toward your career in Canada. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How can I find a job in Canada as a newcomer?  

Start by assessing your career options, upgrading your skills through career-focused education, and leveraging job placement services. Networking and volunteering can also help you gain experience.  

2. Do I need a diploma to get a job in Canada?  

While some jobs accept foreign credentials, many require Canadian-recognized education. Career colleges offer fast-track diploma programs that enhance job readiness. 

3. Does Sundance College help with job placements?  

Yes! Sundance College offers career services, helping students connect with employers and secure practicum placements in their field.  

4. Are there financial aid options for newcomers in Canada?  

Yes, student loans are available for permanent residents and may be available for protected persons. Some career colleges, like Sundance College, have student financial administrators who will help you explore your options.