Social workers play a vital role in Canada’s healthcare and community support systems. They assist individuals and families with mental health challenges, housing issues, family support, immigration settlement and access to social programs. According to Statistics Canada, demand for social and community service professionals continues to rise as the population grows and requires more support services. Many organizations report ongoing shortages of qualified social workers, especially in child welfare, mental health and settlement services.

For internationally trained social workers, Canada offers a meaningful and stable career path. However, becoming a Registered Social Worker (RSW) requires meeting provincial licensing requirements. This guide outlines the step-by-step process, provincial differences, timelines, expected costs and career outlook to help internationally trained professionals pursue social work in Canada.

Step 1: Credential evaluation

Before practising as a social worker, internationally trained applicants must have their education assessed. Each province has its own regulatory body, but many use or accept assessments from the Canadian Association of Social Workers (CASW).

The process may include:

• Submitting foreign degrees, transcripts and course descriptions
• Providing proof of supervised practice or field placements
• Having documents translated into English or French
• Completing an Educational Credential Assessment if required

The evaluation determines whether your degree is equivalent to a Canadian Bachelor or Master of Social Work (BSW or MSW).

Step 2: Bridging or upgrading programs

If your education does not fully meet Canadian requirements, you may need to complete additional coursework. Some provinces require specific competencies in:

• Canadian social work ethics and legislation
• Indigenous history and cultural safety
• Trauma-informed practice
• Child and family services in Canada

Many universities offer post-graduate certificates, microcredentials or bridging pathways for internationally trained social workers. These programs help newcomers strengthen their understanding of Canadian standards and prepare for provincial registration.

Step 3: Supervised practice or field experience

Some provinces require supervised practice hours before full registration. This helps ensure internationally trained professionals are prepared for Canadian work environments. Requirements vary but may include:

• 500 to 1,000 hours of supervised practice
• Direct client work
• Case management
• Documentation and assessment practices
• Ethical and professional standards

Candidates may begin as Social Work Candidates, Provisional RSWs or Supervised Practitioners, depending on the province.

Step 4: Licensing and registration

To become a Registered Social Worker, you must apply to the provincial regulatory body. Requirements may include:

• Application forms and fees
• Proof of education and credential assessment
• Criminal record check and vulnerable sector screening
• Liability insurance
• Confirmation of supervised hours
• A jurisprudence or ethics exam in some provinces

Once approved, you receive the RSW designation and can practice independently.

Provincial differences

Social work is regulated at the provincial level, so requirements vary:

• Ontario: Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW). Requires a BSW or MSW and proof of language proficiency.
• British Columbia: BC College of Social Workers (BCCSW). Requires credential evaluation through CASW.
• Alberta: Alberta College of Social Workers (ACSW). Offers a provisional social worker registration pathway.
• Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Nova Scotia and Newfoundland: All have colleges with similar requirements, often involving CASW assessment.
• Quebec: Must join the Ordre des travailleurs sociaux et des thérapeutes conjugaux et familiaux du Québec. French proficiency is required.

Newcomers should always confirm the exact steps with their provincial regulator.

How long does it take to become a registered social worker in Canada

The process varies depending on prior education, but most internationally trained applicants take one to three years to complete all requirements.

Typical timelines include:

• Credential assessment: 6 to 12 months
• Bridging or upgrading programs: 6 to 18 months
• Supervised practice: 6 to 12 months
• Registration and final approval: 3 to 6 months

Applicants with strong, aligned credentials may be approved faster.

How much does it cost to become a registered social worker in Canada

Costs depend on bridging requirements, but internationally trained applicants usually spend CAD 3,000 to 15,000. Typical expenses include:

• Credential evaluation: CAD 350 to 800
• Bridging or upgrading courses: CAD 2,000 to 10,000
• Registration and licensing fees: CAD 300 to 600 annually
• Liability insurance: CAD 200 to 400 per year

If a full certificate program is needed, costs may be higher.

Job outlook and salary for social workers in Canada

Demand for social workers is strong across the country, especially in urban centres and northern regions. Social workers are needed in:

• Hospitals and mental health clinics
• Child and family services
• Schools
• Community and non-profit organizations
• Settlement and newcomer agencies
• Private counselling practices

According to government labour market data, most social workers earn between CAD 60,000 and 90,000 annually, depending on the province and specialization. Senior clinicians and those in private practice may earn more than CAD 100,000.

Start your social work career in Canada with Windmill Microlending

Restarting your career in a new country can be challenging, especially when licensing, credential assessments and training programs come with significant costs. Windmill Microlending offers low-interest loans of up to CAD 15,000 to help internationally trained social workers cover expenses such as credential evaluations, bridging programs, exams and registration fees. Check your eligibility now!