Steps to Migrate to Canada as an Architect

Before you Migrate To Canada As An Architect, it is essential to understand that the profession of an architect is regulated. The provincial and territorial regulatory bodies set the standards of entry into the profession, and they issue licenses to those who meet the qualifications.

According to the law, you can not practice as an architect in Canada or use the title “architect” if you have not been fully licensed as a member of the regulatory body in the province or territory you intend to work. However, if you are already working under the direction of an architect, it will no longer be necessary to be registered or licensed to work in an architectural firm.

The Royal Architectural Institute of Canada (RAIC) is the national association and the voice for architecture and its practice in Canada. It represents over 4000 architects.

NOC’s Job Description For Architecture

According to the National Occupational Classification listing, every job in Canada has a code.

The job code for architecture is NOC 2151. Architects in Canada are in charge of construction and building.

They work in the construction industry, designing and building new spaces around it. They can help conserve old buildings and devise new ways of using them.

Architects are involved in the construction planning process and must ensure that the project is completed. This is why it is an in-demand job in Canada.

Jobs Under NOC Code 2151

Architects looking to move to Canada to work under this NOC category 2151 might be employed under work titles including:

• Architect
• Architectural standards specialist
• Chief Architect
• Consulting Architect
• Industrial and commercial buildings Architect
• Residential Architect
• Residential building Architect

Duties Performed By Architects In Canada

As an architect who wishes to live and work in Canada, you must be able to perform some or all of the duties listed below

• Consult with clients to determine the type, style, and purpose of renovations or new building construction being considered.
• Conceptualize and design buildings and develop plans describing design specifications, building materials, costs, and construction schedules.
• Prepare sketches and models for clients.
• Supervise the preparation of drawings, specifications, and other construction documents for use by contractors and tradespersons.
• Prepare bidding documents, participate in contract negotiations, and award construction contracts.
• Monitor activities on construction sites to ensure compliance with specifications.
• Conduct feasibility studies and financial analyses of building projects.
• Architects may specialize in a particular type of construction, such as residential, commercial, industrial, or institutional.

Steps To Take To Migrate To Canada As An Architect

To be successful in practicing your profession in your future country, there are numerous steps that you can take before migrating to Canada:

• Make sure you research so that you can have a general overview of how your international qualifications may be viewed in Canada and have a general sense of the Canadian labor market and workplace culture.
• You must contact the Canadian Architectural Certification Board (CACB) and the provincial or territorial regulatory body in the area where you intend to settle and work and find out the specific procedure to follow and the potential costs and time required to obtain a permit. In addition, get more information about the steps in the licensing process you can take before immigrating.
• You need to have advanced English or French practice in the profession. You must have advanced English or French (depending on your choice of a province) language competency. Even though you are very good at speaking English or French, it is helpful to improve your language skills and enroll in language classes while in your home country and continue them after moving to Canada.

Other Important Steps:

• The CACB will require you to provide specific educational documents such as your degrees and original transcripts to assess your education against Canadian standards. Your academic institution(s) must send these documents directly to them. While still in your home country, It is much easier for you to gather and organize your official education, work, and identity documents. When contacting them, also find out if there are any other documents you need to provide for employment purposes or to continue education and verify the translation of these documents. Professional translation services in Canada might be helpful.
• Understand how the profession of architecture is practiced in Canada and familiarize yourself with the procedures, laws, and legislation that govern your profession in the province or territory where you intend to settle and work.
• Know the name of your job in Canada and make a list of potential employers.
• Inquire about the procedure to get a driver’s license in Canada and apply for it right immediately you land, as it would be instrumental when you get a job or even to get a job.
• Another thing that can be very useful is for you to attend a Canadian Immigrant Integration Program (CIIP) seminar, which organizes “pre-departure orientation.”

Requirements for an Architect to Migrate to Canada

Before you can migrate to Canada as an architect, you must meet eligibility requirements. In addition, you must be able to score the maximum point needed for you.

You must also meet the employment.

• A bachelor’s degree from an accredited school of Architecture or completion of the syllabus of studies from the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada (RAIC) is required.
• A master’s degree in Architecture may be required.
• Completing a three-year internship under a registered architect’s supervision is required.
• Completion of the Architect registration examination is required.
• Registration with a provincial regulatory body is required in all provinces and the Northwest Territories.
• Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification is offered by the Canada Green Building Council and may be required by some employers.

 How to Migrate into Canada as an Architect Using Express Entry

One of the best options for architects who want to immigrate to Canada is through express entry.

Express entry is a point-based system that chooses the best ranking candidates through the express entry pool.

The candidates with the highest scores according to the Comprehensive Ranking System are chosen. Candidates who are chosen gain Canada permanent residence through employment.

Your CRS points are calculated based on the following criteria:

• Age
• Academic qualifications
• English ability
• French ability
• Your partner’s skills
• Work experience

Climate In Canada

The work of an architect is an outdoor activity; as an architect in Canada, you will stay most of the time outdoors. So, it is necessary you know the weather you are going to encounter as an architect.

You should first note that the weather depends mainly on the province you choose to live in.

For instance, if you decide to live in the northern province, you must expect a super cold environment and a summer of fewer than two months.

The southern provinces where most people live enjoy warm weather for most of the year.

All things being equal, prepare for cold and warm weather if you wish to live in Canada as an architect.

Frequently Asked Questions About Architects Migrating Into Canada

Can I immigrate to Canada as an Architect without a job offer? 

Yes, you can migrate to Canada as an architect without a job offer through the express entry system.

Express entry is a point-based system in which successful candidates are invited for Canadian permanent residence based on the CRS points grid.

Once you can score the minimum of 67 points required, you can qualify to enter Canada as an architect without any job offer.

Your CRS points are calculated based on the following criteria Age, Academic qualifications, English ability, French ability, Your partner’s skills, and Work experience.

How much does an architect earn in Canada?

An average architect who works in Canada earns around $87,595 per year.

You can earn more than this depending on your experience and qualification. In addition, the salary can vary according to the city and province.

How long does it take to become an architect in Canada?

It takes about 5 to 7 years to become an architect in Canada. First, you must complete your degree (bachelor’s or master’s degree), which takes about 5-7 years to complete.

After the degree, you must go for an internship for three years in your province of residence as part of your professional training.

After the internship, you must take a standard exam that qualifies you to work as an architect in Canada if you pass the exam.

Is Canada suitable for architects?

Yes, Canada is generally good for architects because it is an in-demand job in Canada.

But some cities have high prospects for architects because they are fast-growing cities. The cities include Alberta and Saskatchewan.