On July 11, MOSAIC had the pleasure of welcoming Sunita Dhir, Parliamentary Secretary for International Credentials, and her team for an in-person visit. The meeting brought together members of MOSAIC’s employment programs and two newcomer clients who generously shared their stories, offering a real-time look at what it’s like to pursue a professional career in British Columbia as a newcomer.
The visit followed a major milestone in policy. The International Credential Recognition Act came into full effect on July 1, 2024, with its key provision prohibiting Canadian work experience requirements taking effect one year later, on July 1, 2025.
The Act addresses long-standing barriers faced by internationally trained professionals in regulated occupations by making licensing faster, more transparent, and more affordable. It removes common hurdles such as excessive fees and redundant English testing, and ensures Canadian work experience cannot be mandated unless an exemption has been granted.
While the Act lays important groundwork, it’s clear from our clients’ experiences that challenges remain.
One client, a senior finance professional from Nigeria with over 20 years of global experience, described her struggles to re-enter the workforce. Despite applying for roles at every level—entry, mid, and senior—she received no interview opportunities. Even after completing a diploma in data analytics to re-skill, doors remained closed. She faced a lengthy and complex CPA recertification process that felt insurmountable at times. “I have over 20 years of senior-level experience, but when I saw all the steps required to get my CPA, I gave up after I registered, for two or three times… but the only way I can be employed in the field is to get it. So I kept registering and withdrawing,” she shared.
Another client, a registered architect from Tunisia fluent in Arabic, French, and English, spoke about the emotional toll of being unable to break into the labour market. With more than seven years of experience and expertise in high-demand design software, she expected to find entry points into the field. “I started doubting my value until someone at MOSAIC looked at my resume and said, ‘You’re a senior architect,'” she reflected, “That gave me hope.”
These stories echo the experiences of many newcomers: credentials alone are often not enough. Systemic biases in hiring, lack of professional networks, and inconsistent recognition of international experience continue to stand in the way.
Parliamentary Secretary Sunita Dhir listened attentively as clients shared their stories and challenges. We appreciated her thoughtful presence and her willingness to hear directly from those impacted by the credentialing process. She also spoke about the government’s ongoing work with regulatory bodies to improve fairness and accountability. Visits like this one help ensure that policy is shaped by real-world experiences and that progress continues beyond legislation alone.
At MOSAIC, our employment programs are committed to helping newcomers navigate credentialing systems and build meaningful career pathways. We provide pre-arrival services, mentorship opportunities, and targeted career supports, and we work closely with employers and regulators to share insights from clients and advocate for more inclusive systems.
We’re grateful to Parliamentary Secretary Sunita Dhir and her team for taking the time to meet with us and hear directly from our clients. It’s a strong reminder that change is not just about legislation, but about staying connected to the voices of those most affected.
When newcomer talent is recognized and supported, everyone benefits. As MOSAIC’s Beyond the First Job report highlights, helping immigrants move into careers that match their skills and experience strengthens not only individual lives but our collective workforce and economy.
MOSAIC will continue to elevate newcomer voices, share on-the-ground insights, and advocate for practical solutions that move us closer to a labour market that works for all.
