How to Get Certified to Teach in Canada as an International Educator

As Canada faces increasing demand for qualified educators, international teachers looking to pursue a teaching career in the country must meet specific certification requirements — and those requirements vary by province and territory.

Teaching in Canada is a regulated profession, meaning anyone wishing to teach in a Canadian classroom must be certified by the relevant provincial or territorial authority. The process for obtaining certification can differ across jurisdictions, but some general requirements apply to all internationally educated teachers.

Rising Demand and Easier Immigration Pathways

With teaching listed as an in-demand occupation in many parts of Canada, qualified educators are finding it easier to secure job opportunities. Additionally, the federal government has added Education as a category under Express Entry, streamlining the path to permanent residency for teachers planning to settle in Canada.

Steps to Becoming a Certified Teacher in Canada

Step 1: Check Eligibility

To be considered for certification, applicants must typically meet the following criteria:

• Post-secondary education: Most provinces require a bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution. International qualifications must be verified through an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA).
• Teacher training: Applicants must have completed a teacher education program, including coursework and practical teaching experience. The number of semesters and training hours required may vary by province.
• Language proficiency: Teachers must demonstrate fluency in English or French, depending on the teaching province and subject.
• Character verification: Applicants are often required to provide proof of good moral character. This may include criminal background checks, character references, and teacher evaluations.

Some provinces have additional requirements. For example, Ontario mandates completion of the Sexual Abuse Prevention Program (SAPP), while British Columbia requires internationally trained teachers to complete a familiarization program approved by the BC Teachers’ Council.

Step 2: Apply to the Provincial Regulatory Body

Once eligibility criteria are met, candidates must submit an application to the relevant provincial or territorial certifying authority. Required documents may include:

• Passport or ID documents
• Official transcripts and diplomas
• Language test results
• Police clearance certificates
• Proof of name changes (if applicable)

Documents not in English or French must be translated by a certified translator. Application fees vary by province.

Step 3: Fulfill Any Additional Provincial Certification Requirements

In some provinces, candidates may be granted interim certification while gaining the required teaching experience. For example, Alberta offers an Interim Professional Certification, valid for three years. After two years of full-time teaching, candidates may apply for a Permanent Professional Certificate.

Where to Apply for Teacher Certification in Canada

Many of these provinces are also now part of Pathways to Teach Canada, a national initiative launched in 2024 that simplifies certification for internationally educated teachers by offering a single-entry application portal.