Finding employment in a new country can be challenging, but Ontario has a strong network of publicly funded employment services designed to help newcomers connect with jobs, upgrade their skills, and recognize their credentials. This page summarizes the main programs available to you.
Employment Ontario (EO)
Employment Ontario is a province-wide network of publicly funded employment service providers. EO services are free and available to anyone who is legally able to work in Ontario, including CUAET holders with a valid work permit.
Services include:
- Job search support and résumé writing assistance
- Interview preparation and coaching
- Labour market information and job matching
- Access to job postings and employer connections
- Skills assessment and training referrals
- Supports for persons with disabilities
How to Access Employment Ontario
- Visit ontario.ca/page/employment-ontario to find a service provider near you.
- Call or walk into your nearest EO service location — no appointment is usually needed for an initial visit.
- Bring your work permit and any credentials or diplomas you have (originals and copies).
- Work with a case manager to create a personalized employment plan.
- Access workshops, job fairs, and employer connections through your EO provider.
Better Jobs Ontario
Better Jobs Ontario (formerly Second Career) provides funding of up to $28,000–$35,000 for eligible individuals to complete short-duration training programs that lead to employment in high-demand occupations.
This program can fund tuition, books, transportation, and living expenses while you train for a new career. It is particularly useful if your credentials from Ukraine are not recognized in Ontario and you need to complete bridging or retraining.
Eligibility
- You must be legally entitled to work in Ontario (CUAET work permit holders qualify)
- You must be unemployed or at risk of unemployment
- You must have a demonstrated financial need
- Your training must lead to an occupation that is in demand in Ontario
- You must not be eligible for Employment Insurance (EI) training benefits
How to Apply
- Visit ontario.ca/page/better-jobs-ontario for full program details.
- Contact your nearest Employment Ontario service provider to begin the application — they will help you determine eligibility and complete the paperwork.
- Work with your EO case manager to identify an approved training program that matches your goals.
Ontario Bridge Training Program
The Ontario Bridge Training Program (OBTP) helps internationally trained immigrants — including Ukrainians — get their credentials assessed and recognized so they can work in their field in Ontario. Programs are offered through colleges, universities, and professional associations.
Bridge training programs typically include:
- Canadian workplace orientation and sector-specific language training
- Credential assessment support
- Mentorship with Ontario professionals in your field
- Networking opportunities with employers
- Licensing exam preparation where applicable
Requirements
- Internationally trained in a regulated or in-demand profession
- Legally entitled to work in Ontario
- Able to communicate in English or French (varies by program)
- Not currently employed in your profession in Ontario
Full program listings: ontario.ca — Ontario Bridge Training Program
OBPAP Bursary: Some bridge training programs offer the Ontario Bridge Training Program Access and Participation (OBPAP) bursary to help cover costs such as childcare, transportation, and living expenses during training. Ask your program coordinator about eligibility.
Partner Organizations
Several community organizations specifically support Ukrainian newcomers and other immigrants with employment:
ACCES Employment
ACCES Employment provides sector-specific employment programs for internationally trained professionals. Programs cover fields including IT, finance, engineering, supply chain, and more. Services include job search workshops, mentoring, and employer connections.
CUIAS — Citizenship for Ukrainian Immigrants Assisting Society
CUIAS provides employment-related settlement support specifically tailored to Ukrainian newcomers, including résumé help, job search assistance, and referrals to employment programs.
UkrTO Community
UkrTO Community is a Toronto-based Ukrainian community organization offering peer support, community connections, and referrals to employment and settlement services for Ukrainian newcomers.
Your Rights as a Worker in Ontario
As a worker in Ontario with a valid work permit, you have the same legal protections as any other worker, regardless of your immigration status. Ontario’s Employment Standards Act and Occupational Health and Safety Act apply to you.
- Minimum wage: You are entitled to Ontario’s current minimum wage for all hours worked
- Overtime pay: You are entitled to overtime pay for hours worked beyond 44 per week
- Vacation time: You are entitled to at least 2 weeks of vacation per year (or 4% vacation pay)
- Public holidays: You are entitled to public holiday pay for Ontario’s statutory holidays
- Safe workplace: Your employer must provide a safe working environment free from harassment and discrimination
- No retaliation: Your employer cannot fire or punish you for asserting your rights
If you believe your rights as a worker are being violated, contact the Ontario Ministry of Labour or a local legal clinic for free advice.