Certification barriers affect Canadian industries unevenly. Mining and professional services have the highest rates of interprovincial hiring, while healthcare and transportation also rely heavily on certified or licensed workers from other provinces and territories. Simplifying provincial certification regulations, or recognizing credentials issued by other jurisdictions, could help boost workforce development, support business expansion, and enhance economic resilience.
For insights into the potential gains from easing labour mobility barriers across occupations, sectors, and regions, see this C.D. Howe Institute research paper.
