Accounting Career Paths for Newcomers to Canada

Canada continues to welcome newcomers with diverse professional backgrounds, and accounting is one field where your skills can truly make a difference. Whether you’ve worked in finance before or are just starting out, accounting offers a range of rewarding career opportunities that are in demand across the country.

But how do you get started in a new country with a new system? What credentials matter most? And what kinds of jobs are available to you?

Let’s explore the career options and practical steps for immigrants hoping to build a successful accounting career in Canada.

Why Accounting is a strong career choice in Canada

Accounting is one of the most stable and growing sectors in Canada’s economy. According to Job Bank Canada, employment in accounting-related occupations is expected to remain steady through 2031, with more than 88,000 job openings projected, driven by both expansion demand and retirements (Job Bank Canada, 2024).

Moreover, accountants and bookkeepers were listed among the Top 10 Most In-Demand Jobs in British Columbia in 2025 (WorkBC, 2025), and among the Top 8 Most In-Demand Jobs for Skilled Foreign Workers in Canada (Immigration.ca, 2025).

If you already have accounting experience or education from another country, you may be able to use that as a foundation to work in Canada. However, some roles require Canadian credentials or specific certifications.

Start by getting your credentials assessed through organizations like World Education Services (WES). This step helps employers and academic institutions understand your background and determine equivalency in the Canadian system.

Depending on your goals, you may also consider:

• Bridging programs offered by colleges or settlement agencies
• Upgrading your skills in Canadian tax, payroll, or business software like QuickBooks, Xero, or Sage
• Networking through local accounting associations or newcomer employment services
• These steps can help you build confidence, meet Canadian standards, and access more opportunities.

Pathways in the Accounting Field

Accounting careers aren’t one-size-fits-all. From entry-level positions to professional designations, here are some of the most common accounting career paths for newcomers:

1. Accounting Clerk or Bookkeeper

These roles are often ideal entry points for newcomers looking to gain Canadian experience. Tasks may include processing invoices, maintaining financial records, reconciling accounts, and using accounting software.

2. Payroll Administrator

Payroll is a specialized area of accounting that involves preparing employee pay, managing deductions, and staying compliant with government regulations. Demand for payroll professionals is rising due to the growth of small and mid-sized businesses across Canada.

3. Tax Preparer or Tax Associate

Many newcomers find success starting in seasonal or part-time tax roles, especially during tax season (February–April). This experience helps build practical knowledge of Canadian tax systems and software.

Popular platforms used by employers include UFile, Profile, and TaxCycle. The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) also offers volunteer training through its Community Volunteer Income Tax Program (CVITP), which can be a great stepping stone.

4. Accounts Payable/Receivable Specialist

These roles involve managing invoices, payments, and vendor/client accounts. Employers seek candidates with strong organization skills and familiarity with ERP systems like SAP, Oracle, or Microsoft Dynamics.

These roles are common in industries like retail, manufacturing, government, and non-profits, and often lead to senior finance positions.

5. Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA)

If you have a background in accounting and want to grow long-term in Canada, earning your Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) designation is a highly respected pathway.

The CPA designation is recognized nationwide and can lead to roles in:

• Financial analysis
• Auditing
• Controllership or CFO positions
• Public practice or consulting

Where newcomers can find support

Transitioning into a Canadian accounting career can be challenging, but support is available.

Here are some organizations and programs that offer valuable help:

• ACCES Employment (Ontario) – Job search support, employer connections, and sector-specific bridging programs
• ISSofBC (British Columbia) – Credential recognition, career advising, and sector-specific programs including accounting
• CPAC (Chinese Professionals Association of Canada) – Mentorship, networking, and certification preparation for internationally trained professionals
• Toronto Region Immigrant Employment Council (TRIEC) – Mentoring partnerships and professional integration support

 

Many colleges across Canada also offer Accounting Certificate or Diploma programs tailored for newcomers. These often include workplace culture, Canadian business practices, and industry-specific technology.

Your Skills Are Needed

If you have an eye for numbers, strong organizational skills, and a desire to grow, the accounting field in Canada offers real opportunity. The journey may involve upgrading your education, gaining local experience, or pursuing a new designation, but the demand is there.

Accounting is more than just managing money, it’s about building trust, helping organizations succeed, and contributing to the economy. With the right support and preparation, newcomers can not only enter the field but thrive in it.