My girlfriend graduated from a US university, but will have to move to Canada because of Visa issues, is it true that she would need to re do her bachelor’s in order to be a licensed accountant in Canada?

Navigating the Path to Accounting Accreditation in Canada for International Graduates

Moving to a new country is a challenging experience, especially for professionals looking to continue their careers. Such is the case for my girlfriend, who recently graduated from a prestigious university in the United States with aspirations of becoming a licensed accountant in Canada. However, she now faces an unexpected hurdle due to visa complications that have necessitated her relocation to Montreal.

Despite having earned her degree from a top-20 institution and completing the necessary 150 credit hours, along with one year of experience at one of the Big Four Accounting firms and passing two CPA exams, there are questions surrounding her ability to practice Accounting in Canada. According to our research, it appears that she may need to repeat her entire bachelor’s degree at a Canadian university in order to be eligible for certification.

This requirement feels particularly stringent given her existing qualifications and experience. It’s both frustrating and puzzling, especially when considering the rigorous standards she has already met in the US accounting framework.

In light of these challenges, I seek advice and insights from those who have navigated similar situations. Are there alternative routes for international graduates like her? Are there specific exams or certifications that could validate her expertise without the need to start from scratch?

Understanding the Canadian accounting landscape is essential for her as she embarks on a new chapter in life. Any guidance or personal experiences shared would be greatly appreciated, as they could help clarify the options available for skilled professionals facing relocation and certification challenges. Thank you!