What is an ECA Certificate? | Required Documents | List of Designated Organizations

The Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) is crucial for determining whether you are qualified to apply for Canadian citizenship as a result of your foreign education. As a result of this process, your qualifications are recognized and comparable to those of Canadians.

For many highly skilled international workers, the World Education Services (WES) is a preferred choice for obtaining an ECA report.

What is an ECA?

An Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) verifies the authenticity of your foreign educational qualifications. Especially if you are applying through Express Entry, the ECA is essential. The ECA report is valuable for immigration, but it does not guarantee employment in Canada.

Designated Organization for Architects (Updated)

As of May 20, 2024, the Canadian Architectural Certification Board (CACB) is officially authorized to issue ECA reports for architects. CACB became a designated institute on May 22, 2024.

For detailed information about the ECA process and architect fees, visit the CACB website.

List of Designated Institutes for ECA Reports for Specific Occupations

The following organizations can provide you with the necessary ECA reports for various occupations:

How to Check if You Need an ECA Report

In order to qualify for an immigration program, you must submit an ECA report.

• Employees in the trade industry: Do not need an ECA report.

• Skilled Professionals: Must submit an ECA report in their Express Entry profile.

• Canadian Experienced Workers: May require an ECA report if they have foreign education.

An ECA report can improve your CRS score and increase your chances of better job opportunities in Canada. However, it does not guarantee a job.

Which Documents Are Needed for an ECA?

In order to obtain an ECA report, the following documents may be required:

• Scanned copy of government-issued identification (ID).

• Translation of government-issued ID

• Graduation certificate from an academic institution

• Academic record showing course details

The document size should not exceed 10,240 KB. Accepted formats include doc, docx, jpg, pdf, and png. For specific country requirements, refer to this link.

Do I Need More Than One ECA Report?

If you have completed studies in different countries, you may need separate ECA reports for each country.

When Should You Get Your Secondary Education Assessed?

You generally need to assess your highest education level. For instance, if you have a Master’s degree, you need an assessment for that degree. Assessments are not required for secondary education if you hold a higher degree.

Which Educational Evaluation Services Should I Apply For?

Here are the five designated organizations authorized by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for ECA reports:

• World Education Services (WES)

• Comparative Education Service (CES)

• International Credential Assessment Service of Canada (ICAS)

• International Qualifications Assessment Service (IQAS)

• International Credential Evaluation Service (ICES)

Conclusion

It is possible to significantly enhance your CRS score and your competitiveness for Canadian permanent residency by obtaining a Canadian ECA report. Consult an RCIC for expert advice if you are uncertain which organization to choose for your ECA report.