Best Accounting Jobs in Canada for Immigrants in 2023

Best Accounting Jobs in Canada for Immigrants
Best Accounting Jobs in Canada for Immigrants

Accounting practices in Canada are all about managing finances and ensuring that businesses and organizations keep their money matters in order. 

In Canada, there are clear rules set by the Canadian Accounting Standards Board (AcSB) to make sure everyone follows the same financial reporting standards. These rules are a lot like international standards, so it's easier to compare financial reports globally.


Becoming a CPA in Canada isn't easy. People typically go through a lot of education and have to pass a tough exam called the Common Final Examination (CFE). Once they do, they get the prestigious CPA designation.

Accounting is a lucrative career, especially if you are working for the big 4 accounting firms. Whether you are migrating from Africa or Asia, you can make it big as an accountant in Canada.

Duties of an Accountant in Canada

Accountants in Canada perform the following duties:
  • Analyze financial data to identify trends, patterns, and anomalies.
  • Prepare financial statements like balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow statements.
  • Assist in creating budgets and financial forecasts.
  • Monitor budgetary performance and report on variances.
  • Prepare and file tax returns for individuals or businesses.
  • Ensure compliance with tax laws and regulations.
  • Conduct internal audits to assess financial controls and compliance.
  • Cooperate with external auditors during financial audits.
  • Interact with clients, management, and stakeholders regarding financial matters.
  • Offer financial advice and support for decision-making.
  • Help businesses plan for future financial needs and opportunities.

How to Become an Accountant in Canada as an Immigrant or Foreigner

Becoming an accountant in Canada as an immigrant or foreigner typically involves several steps:

1. Get the Right Education

First things first, you'll need a bachelor's degree in accounting or something closely related. Just make sure your degree matches up with Canadian standards. You might have to get it evaluated through a place like the World Education Services (WES).

2. Show Off Your Language Skills

Canada speaks English and French officially, so you'll need to prove you're good at one of those languages. Tests like IELTS or CELPIP can help with that.

3. Get Certified

To be a top-notch accountant in Canada, you'll want to aim for a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) designation. This means going through the CPA Professional Education Program (PEP) and acing the Common Final Examination (CFE). But remember, the exact requirements can vary by province, so check that.

4. Rack Up Experience

Hands-on experience is a must. Most provinces want you to have a specific number of work hours, often gained through a CPA-approved training program or working under a licensed CPA.

5. Make Some Friends

Networking is key. Go to industry events, join accounting associations, and find a mentor. Who you know can be just as important as what you know when it comes to landing a job.

6. Sort Out Your Immigration Stuff

You'll need the right immigration status and work permits to stay and work in Canada. This could mean applying for a work permit or even going for permanent residency through programs like Express Entry.

7. Hunt for a Job

Look for accounting job opportunities. Check out job websites, company career pages, and ask your network for leads.

8. Licensing, Maybe

If you're not a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, some provinces might require you to get a provincial license to work as an accountant. Check what's needed where you want to live.

9. Keep Learning

The accounting world keeps changing. Stay up-to-date with new standards and rules by taking courses and staying curious.

10. Get Support

There are settlement services and organizations that help newcomers. They can guide you through immigration, job searches, and adjusting to life in Canada.

Best Accounting Jobs in Canada for Immigrants
Best Accounting Jobs in Canada for Immigrants

Best Accounting Jobs in Canada for Immigrants

There are several accounting job opportunities in Canada for foreigners. Here are 10 accounting jobs in Canada for immigrants, including detailed descriptions and approximate salary ranges:

1. Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA)

CPAs are financial experts who handle everything from financial reports to audits and taxes. They work in accounting firms or within company finance departments.CPAs can earn anywhere from $60,000 to well over $150,000, depending on their experience and specialization.

2. Financial Analyst

Financial analysts look at financial data and market trends to give investment advice. They work in banks, investment firms, and company finance teams. Financial analysts usually make between $50,000 to $100,000 or more.

3. Auditor

Auditors are accounting professionals who examine the financial records of their clients to ensure they comply with accounting rules and regulations.

Furthermore, they audit financial statements of companies to ensure accuracy. They can work in audit firms or in-house at companies. Auditors typically earn between $50,000 to $100,000 or more.

4. Tax Consultant

Taxes are compulsory for individuals and businesses. Tax consultants specialize in tax planning and helping clients with tax-related matters. They can work in tax firms or as independent consultants. Furthermore, tax consultants usually make between $50,000 to $120,000 or more.

5. Management Accountant

Management accountants provide financial information for strategic decisions. They focus on costs, budgets, and forecasts. Management accountants can earn around $60,000 to $110,000 or more.

6. Forensic Accountant

These accounting professionals investigate financial irregularities and fraud. They often work with law firms, government agencies, or specialized firms. Forensic accountants generally earn between $60,000 to $120,000 or more.

7. Cost Accountant

Cost accountants analyze production costs to help companies manage expenses. Furthermore, cost accountants help to ascertain the selling price of products. They're commonly found in manufacturing and retail industries. Cost accountants typically make between $50,000 to $100,000 or more.

8. Financial Controller

Financial controllers oversee an organization's finances, including accounting, budgeting, and reporting. Furthermore, financial controllers generally earn between $80,000 to $150,000 or more, depending on the organization's size.

9. Payroll Manager

Payroll managers ensure employees are paid correctly and on time. They handle payroll systems and tax compliance. Payroll managers usually make between $50,000 to $100,000 or more.

10. Credit Analyst

Credit analysts evaluate the creditworthiness of individuals and businesses, often in financial institutions. Furthermore, credit analysts typically earn around $45,000 to $90,000 or more, depending on their experience and the institution.

Accountants in Canada Salary

How much do accountants in Canada earn? Canada is one of the best countries for chartered accountants in the world. This resulted to increase in demand for accountants in Canada.

The salaries of accountants in Canada depends on where you work, how much experience you have, your level of education, and the industry you're in.

For accountants who are just starting out in their accounting careers, you can typically expect to earn somewhere between $40,000 to $60,000 per year.

As you gain more experience and potentially obtain certifications like the CPA (Chartered Professional Accountant), your earnings can climb quite a bit. Experienced accountants often make between $70,000 to $100,000 or even more annually.

Now, if you've been in the accounting game for a while and have moved up the ranks into senior or managerial positions, your salary can really shoot up. It's not uncommon for senior accountants to pull in well over $100,000 per year.

Conclusion: Best Chartered Accountant Jobs in Canada for Immigrants

The best accounting jobs in Canada for immigrants and foreigners include tax consultants, financial analysts, cost accountants, and many more.

Furthermore, we explained how to become an accountant in Canada as an Immigrant and the salary range of accountants in Canada.

So what are you waiting for? Take advantage of this demand for accountants and start a career in the accounting industry.
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