Training and career-coaching to help you launch a new career. Vocational assistance provides skills and training to find a new career and restore the earning capacity of a Veteran’s family.
About this program
Vocational assistance provides skills development, education or training and other supports to help you establish a new career.
Vocational specialists and other professionals will work with you to build your vocational assistance plan. The plan can include:
- employability assessments
- career counselling
- training, and
- job-search assistance
You will build your vocational assistance plan with the direct assistance of our service provider Partners in Canadian Veterans Rehabilitation Services.
Do you qualify?
You should apply for vocational assistance if you are:
- the spouse/common-law partner of a Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) Veteran who will not be able to take part in vocational rehabilitation due to their health condition, or
- a survivor of a CAF member or Veteran whose death was service-related.
How to apply
Apply online
If you are registered for My VAC Account, you can submit your application for this benefit online. My VAC Account offers a guided web form that makes applying easier. If you aren’t registered, you can register now.
My VAC AccountMail or in person
Download the application form. Then, drop it off at VAC Office or CAF Transition Centre. You can also mail your completed form directly to the address listed on the form.
Go to formIf you are the surviving spouse or common-law partner, please use this form.
Get help with your application
The staff at any VAC office or CAF Transition Centre can assist you or call us at 1-866-522-2122.
Building a rehabilitation plan
We can usually make decisions about Vocational Assistance eligibility within a few weeks of receiving your application. If approved, you will receive the one-on-one support of a VAC case manager and be referred to our service provider, Partners in Canadian Veterans Rehabilitation Services, for an assessment of your vocational assistance needs. Your case manager will work with you (and your family) to identify your goals. Together you will build your vocational assistance plan.
To ensure your success, the plan will identify:
- your goals;
- the services and benefits you will need to reach those goals; and
- a timeframe to complete it all.
You are the most important part of any successful rehab plan. As you work through your plan, it is important to keep in touch about your services or any challenges you face. Give feedback to your case manager or anyone who is working with you.
From start to finish, your VAC case manager will:
- work closely with you and your family;
- respect your privacy and confidentiality;
- help identify information and services you need;
- help you develop support networks;
- coordinate between you, your vocational professional, and other service providers; and
- track and discuss your progress on a regular basis.
Additional information
Related Services
- Vocational rehabilitation – Coaching, support and any other training you need to return to work or find a new job after an injury.
- Case management – A case manager can help you set goals and find the services you need to overcome a challenge in your life.
Frequently asked questions
Does vocational assistance include support for child care so I can go to school for retraining?
Yes. If retraining is part of your vocational assistance plan, we can include support for additional child care expenses. Your case manager will identify the need for this, and other supports, as you develop your vocational assistance plan together.
Are there policies for this program?
Yes. Read more about the policies related to Rehabilitation Services and Vocational Assistance Program.