Navigating Accounting Credentials: A Guide for International Graduates Moving to Canada

In today’s globalized world, many professionals are faced with the challenge of transferring their skills and qualifications from one country to another. This is particularly true for my girlfriend, who recently graduated from a recognized university in the United States. She is now preparing to move to Montreal, Canada, due to visa complications related to her work permit. As a registered Canadian Permanent Resident (PR), she is eager to continue her career in Accounting, but is facing a potential roadblock.

The situation appears quite complex. We came across information suggesting that she may need to redo her entire Bachelor’s degree at a Canadian institution in order to hold the necessary credentials to practice as a licensed accountant. This assertion feels rather daunting, especially considering her impressive background: she graduated from a top 20 university in the U.S., completed 150 credit hours required for CPA eligibility, worked for a year at one of the Big Four Accounting firms, and successfully passed two CPA exams.

Given this context, we are left wondering: Is it truly necessary for her to repeat her undergraduate studies in Canada to take the next steps in her accounting career? Or are there alternative pathways, such as certification exams or other credentials, that would validate her existing qualifications?

As someone who isn’t well-versed in the accounting field or the nuances of Canadian regulations, I would greatly appreciate any insights, suggestions, or resources that could illuminate this process. Whether it’s guidance on certification programs, licensing exams, or information from fellow accounting professionals who have navigated similar hurdles, any help would be immensely valuable as she embarks on this new chapter in her career. Thank you in advance for your assistance!