A recent Statistics Canada (StatsCan) report highlights that more immigrants in Canada are finding jobs suited to their qualifications. When immigrants work in Canada in jobs that do not correspond with their advanced education and/or work experience, this is known as overqualification.
The percentage of recent immigrants with a bachelor’s degree or higher working in a job that is or is not below their qualification level has increased by 4.4% between the last two censuses in Canada, according to a report StatsCan released on May 22. Here’s how census data compares between 2016 and 2021.
At the same time StatsCan says there were fewer “over-educated” recent immigrants. In 2016, 31.1% of recent immigrants were over-educated (i.e. they had a university degree and had jobs that were typically requiring a high school diploma or less), but that number declined in 2021 census. Last year 26.7% of recent immigrants were over-educated.
A Historical Perspective on Overqualification in Canada’s Workforce
Overqualification has been an issue for new immigrants to Canada for many years. The share of recent immigrants who experience a “education-occupation mismatch” has exhibited volatility since 2001, according to Statistics Canada data. 28.7% of recent immigrants felt overeducated for their employed in 2001.
Over subsequent five-year periods, this figure fluctuated as follows:
- In 2006, the percentage of recent immigrants facing overqualification stood at 32.9%.
- By 2011, this figure decreased to 27.8%.
- In 2016, it rose again to 31.1%.
- However, in 2021, there was a decline, with only 26.7% of recent immigrants experiencing overqualification.
This means that in 2021, recent immigrants to Canada had the lowest level of overeducation to date over the last 20 years.
Furthermore, data sourced from the same report revealed that in 2021, the level of recent immigrants to Canada whose education and occupation were the best match had the highest proportion (44.4%) to date over the last 20 years.
Reflecting on data from 2001, Statistics Canada disclosed the percentage of recent immigrants whose education matched their occupation as follows:
- In 2016, 40.0% of recent Canadian immigrants had their education aligned with their occupation.
- By 2011, this figure increased slightly to 43.7%.
- Similarly, in 2006, the percentage of recent immigrants with an education-occupation match was also 43.7%.
- However, looking back to 2001, the highest percentage was recorded, with 48.0% of recent immigrants having their education matching their occupation.
Finding Employment Solutions for Newcomers in Canada
Overqualification issues among recent immigrants in Canada, as well as among newcomers in general, can be addressed by making use of bridging programs if eligibility requirements are met. The provincial and territorial governments fund, organize and manage bridging programs to help newcomers reconcile their foreign education and experience with Canada’s systems.
Generally, it must be stated that bridging programs are not always available in every sector. But in sectors where they are offered, the programs serve as a vital mechanism to assist foreign nationals to acquire both the accreditation and the practical experience needed to work in regulated professions across Canada.
Bridging programs enable newcomers to add value to the Canadian labor market. Often, they can continue working in the same sectors they were engaged in prior to migrating to Canada.
Navigating the Job Market for Employment in Canada
It’s true…for many newcomers to Canada, finding a job can be very difficult. Workplace customs, cultures, and requirements are very different in Canada. There are, however, many online resources that help foreign nationals to find work in Canada.
One big part of adjusting to the Canadian workforce is the creation of a Canadian-style resume. Resumes in Canada, unlike in some other countries, often focus on specific skills, accomplishments, and qualifications that support the position that you are applying for. Many of the online resources offer templates and other guidelines to create Canadian resumes. It is important that these resources help newcomers to present their best face to potential employers in Canada.
In addition to resume preparation, though, many job seekers may benefit from guides to help them understand the etiquette and norms of the Canadian workplace. Things like communication style, expectations around teamwork, and professional conduct are very different in Canada. Whether through article publications, videos, or webinars, many online resources aid newcomers in blending more easily into their new workplace.
Becoming proficient in the job interview process is another essential skill for obtaining work in Canada. A plethora of internet resources provide tactics and advice for getting ready for interviews, including answers to frequently asked questions by Canadian companies and ways to successfully communicate one’s skills and experiences. Additionally, there can be mock interview simulations accessible, giving newbies a chance to hone their interviewing techniques and build confidence.
Additionally, a few platforms offer features specifically designed for Canadian job seekers. These resources could include job postings, networking opportunities, and industry-and profession-specific career guidance. Through the use of these services, immigrants can find job opportunities that align with their interests and skill set. They can then take proactive measures to land a job by leveraging the resources provided.