Coach

Coaching in Canada with Foreign Qualifications

While Canada Soccer does not grant licenses by equivalency, we do recognize coaching qualifications from other countries. This allows foreign-trained coaches to work and continue their development within the Canadian system. We have two pathways for this: Recognition of Qualification and Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR).

Recognition of Qualification

This pathway allows you to have your existing foreign coaching license recognized for a temporary period.

Qualifications from Concacaf Nations

Canada Soccer recognizes diplomas from Member Associations within the Concacaf Coaching Convention. If you hold a prerequisite qualification from one of these associations, you may apply directly for the next level of Canada Soccer certification.

  • Example: A coach with a TTFA B Diploma can apply for the Concacaf A Diploma delivered by Canada Soccer.

Qualifications from Outside Concacaf

If your license is from a FIFA Member Association outside of Concacaf (e.g., UEFA), you can apply for a Recognition of Qualification.

  • Important: This is not an equivalency. For example, a UEFA A Licence does not become a Concacaf A Licence.
  • Benefit: This recognition grants you short-term permission to coach in any environment that requires an equivalent Canada Soccer Licence while you complete your Canadian certification.

How to Apply for Recognition

You must submit an application with the following:

  • A copy of your foreign coaching license.
  • A recent Canadian criminal record check with a vulnerable sector screen.
  • A recent criminal record check from your home country (if applicable).
  • Proof of Canadian work permit, permanent residency, or citizenship.
  • Your National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP) number and proof of completing the Canada Soccer Safe Sport Roster, which includes:
    • NCCP Make Ethical Decisions
    • NCCP Emergency Action Planning
    • NCCP Making Headway in Sport (completed in 2025 or later)
    • NCCP Understanding the Rule of Two
    • Respect in Sport Activity Leader Program
  • Payment of the $300 application fee.

Recognition is valid for up to three years (or the validity of your foreign license, whichever is shorter) and cannot be renewed. To continue coaching, you must enter the Canada Soccer Coach Education Pathway.

To apply for recognition of your foreign coaching licence, please click here.

Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR)

PLAR is for experienced coaches who may qualify for a license or bypass prerequisites based on their extensive background. The highest qualification awarded through PLAR is the Concacaf A Licence.

Who is Eligible?

Consideration is given to coaches with significant experience, such as:

  • Professional or international playing careers.
  • Post-secondary degrees in a related field.
  • Extensive coaching experience and qualifications.

The PLAR Process

  1. Application: Complete the online form, providing your résumé, NCCP number, criminal record checks, and a letter explaining your eligibility.
  2. Assessment: If your application is successful, you will pay the PLAR fee and be assigned a mentor to guide you through the process.
  3. Demonstration of Competence: You will need to show evidence of your skills across four pillars: The Coach, The Player and Team, The Training Environment, and The Match. This may include on-field demonstrations and presentations.

Successful completion can result in being awarded a Canada Soccer Licence or gaining direct entry into a higher-level coaching workshop.