Apply to be recognized as an Early Childhood Educator in New Brunswick from outside of Canada
Learn how to apply as an Early Childhood Educator (ECE) in New Brunswick as an international candidate.
On this page, you'll find details about the application process for those with ECE education from outside Canada.
Become an Early Childhood Educator in New Brunswick
Explore the recognition process for international candidates: Download our step-by-step interactive map.
See the map
Get the help you need from our dedicated staff by phone or email.
Talk to a personGet your credentials evaluated and recognized
Before applying for certification, international ECE candidates need to have their credentials assessed by an organization such as the World Education Services (WES) or the International Qualifications Assessment Service (IQAS). This assessment will determine the equivalency of your qualifications to Canadian standards.
To learn more about the application process, sign up for our pre-recorded video series: "Pathway to Recognition: A Guide for International Early Childhood Educators (ECEs) in New Brunswick." In the series, you’ll learn how to prepare, complete, and submit your application. This video series includes a tour of the “WES Standard Application: Course by Course.”.
If you are an ECE without credentials or formal training, you will still be able to apply for entry-level jobs at ECE centres and benefit from on-the-job training. That includes a free online course called "Introduction to Early Childhood Education."
ECE Success Unlocked: Video Series for New Brunswick Recognition
Discover our easy-to-follow video series tailored for international Early Childhood Educators seeking recognition in New Brunswick. Master the application process and boost your chances of success!
Watch now
Get hired by a licensed child care centre
You can apply to a licensed child care facility in New Brunswick simply by searching NBJobs.ca for Early Childhood Education (ECE) job listings.
NBJobs.ca is a New Brunswick government-operated job search website that offers comprehensive job listings and employment resources to job seekers and employers across Canada.
As an international ECE looking for a job in the province, you can follow these steps to search for relevant positions:
Keyword search: In the search bar, enter relevant keywords such as "Early Childhood Educator," "ECE," "child care worker," or "preschool teacher." This will help you find job postings that are related to your profession.
Location filter: If you're specifically interested in jobs located in certain cities or regions within New Brunswick, you can use the location filter to narrow down your search. Select the desired location from the dropdown menu or enter the name of the city or town in the search bar along with your keywords.
Advanced search options: You can use the advanced search options to refine your search further. This could include selecting specific job categories or posting dates. To access the advanced search options, click on the "Advanced Search" button and enter your preferences.
Browse job postings: Once you've entered your search criteria, browse through the list of job postings that match your query. Click on the job titles to view the full job descriptions, requirements, and application details.
Apply for jobs: Follow the application instructions provided in each job posting. This could involve submitting your resume and cover letter through an online form, via email, or through an external website. Be sure to tailor your application materials to each specific job and highlight your relevant skills, experience, and education as an international ECE.
Set up job alerts (optional): You may choose to set up email alerts for new job postings that match your criteria. This can help you stay informed about new opportunities and streamline your job search process.
From there, the next step is to collect a formal job offer from an employer.
Get work permit and residency
You do not have to be a permanent resident or Canadian citizen to apply for ECE recognition in New Brunswick. International applicants with ECE qualifications from their home countries can apply for the document.
Once you have applied, you must obtain:
- A work permit via the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act
- Permanent residency
Candidates may be able to work with Opportunities New Brunswick (ONB) on permanent residency.
ONB can provide valuable information and resources related to the immigration process. They can help you understand various provincial and federal immigration programs, such as the New Brunswick Immigration Program Streams or the Atlantic Immigration Program, which can facilitate your path to permanent residency.
By connecting you with the right resources and providing guidance, ONB can help international ECEs navigate the immigration process and settle in the province more efficiently. ONB is not an immigration authority, and you will still need to apply for permanent residency through the appropriate immigration channels.
To learn more about ONB and the support they provide, visit their website or contact them directly for personalized assistance.
View a full list of programs, resources, and services for immigration and settlement in New Brunswick on the NBJobs.ca Newcomers page.
“We came at a good time; New Brunswick is really evolving in education. It allows us to function differently in our profession, and it's good because it's also a renewal for me to work with new ideas and new technology.”
Fabrice, Teacher at the Regional School of Baie-Sainte-Anne, trained in Belgium
Hear more from FabriceDiscover your Wage Grid status
Your validated degree or diploma means you can earn higher pay in New Brunswick!
In order to apply for the Wage Grid, your employer will facilitate this with the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development (DEECD).
To find out what your credentials can earn you, and to learn about additional (free) training requirements, view the ECE Wage Grid guidelines.
Start working
Welcome to our ECE community!
You’ll be able to start work as soon as you arrive in New Brunswick.
In some cases, your employer may be able to help you get settled.
For example, the Atlantic Immigration Program allows employers to endorse overseas applicants. Once endorsed, you can submit your application for permanent residency to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada under the Atlantic Immigration Program. Additionally, you might be granted a temporary work permit while waiting for your permanent residency.
View a full list of programs, resources, and services for immigration and settlement in New Brunswick here.
Upgrade on the job
Once certified, ECEs in New Brunswick are expected to engage in ongoing professional development to maintain and enhance their skills and knowledge.
You can continue to upgrade your credentials and income by taking advantage of on-the-job training programs available.
