Employment Support for Newcomers

Communities throughout Ontario offer a variety of free or low-cost resources and supports to assist newcomers to find employment in their fields. These programs and services fall into six categories:

Some specialized programs for internationally educated professionals and tradespeople offer employment assistance, job development, work experience, and mentoring in one program.

To find out about organizations that offer employment programs and services for newcomers, visit the following websites:

Employment Resource Centres

Employment Resource Centres are funded by Human Resources and Skills Development Canada (HRSDC). They offer a variety of resources to newcomers and others looking for career direction, jobs, or help in starting their own business. These resources include:

  • free or low-cost access to computers, fax machines, photocopiers, and the Internet
  • business directories, job search materials, and other library resources
  • workshops and seminars
  • job posting boards
  • résumé development services

Employment Assistance Services

Employment assistance services are offered at many community-based organizations and community colleges. These are group and individual services that help newcomers and others prepare for, obtain, and maintain employment. Programs vary in length from three- or four-day intensive workshops to several months. These programs and services will help you:

  • find background information on potential employers
  • identify employment opportunities that are not advertised
  • prepare an effective résumé
  • establish professional networks
  • master self-marketing techniques and build confidence
  • conduct a successful employment interview

Some employment assistance programs and services are sector-specific. This means that all the participants are qualified in the same profession. For example, all participants might be accountants, pharmacists, or engineers. Other programs are open to participants with a variety of backgrounds.

Mentoring Programs

Mentoring programs match internationally qualified professional newcomers with individuals working in the same profession in Ontario. The mentor encourages the efforts of the newcomer to become established in his or her profession by offering guidance and advice. This might include helping the newcomer to:

  • understand Canadian workplace culture
  • learn self-marketing techniques
  • locate publications and workshops on recent developments in the field
  • gather information on local industries and potential employers
  • establish professional networks
  • identify employment opportunities

Work Experience Programs

Work experience programs offer newcomers paid or unpaid, short-term (four weeks to six months) work experience opportunities with reputable employers. These programs assist newcomers to establish themselves in their professions by overcoming the barrier of "no Canadian experience."  Sometimes these programs are called “internships” or “co-op programs.”

Job Development Services

Job developers work directly with both local employers and newcomers. They identify local employment opportunities and introduce employers to newcomers who have the required skills and experience. Some job developers also coach clients in résumé development and job interview skills.

Programs for Self-employment and Entrepreneurship

These programs assist people who want to start their own business. Find out more: