One of the best places for immigrants looking for fulfilling jobs in the healthcare sector is Canada. The nation aggressively seeks qualified healthcare professionals from throughout the globe due to its aging population, rising medical service demand, and persistent labor shortages. Personal support workers, doctors, nurses, and pharmacists are some of the most in-demand occupations. Foreign-trained professionals can obtain employment and permanent residency through a variety of channels. To make it easier for healthcare workers to enter Canada, the government has put in place immigration schemes like Express Entry, the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), and specific caregiver streams.
Knowing the most in-demand healthcare professions, their qualifications, and the best immigration channels will help you navigate the journey successfully, regardless of your level of expertise or whether you are a recent graduate hoping to start a career in Canada. This report examines the top healthcare careers in Canada for immigrants in 2025, along with the best provinces for employment, necessary skills, and pay possibilities.
Top Healthcare Professions For Immigrants In Canada
Medicare is a well-known, publicly funded healthcare program in Canada. Healthcare workers are employed in both the public and private sectors, even though the government provides funding for these services. While each province and territory oversees its healthcare system, they all follow federal laws.
Canada is largely dependent on immigration to fill vital positions due to the rising need for medical professionals. The government has implemented several initiatives to make it simpler for certified professionals to work and settle in the nation by facilitating the entry of trained healthcare personnel.
Why Immigrants are Needed in Canada’s Healthcare Sector
An aging population, a lack of workers, and rising medical service needs are all posing problems for Canada’s healthcare system. To close these gaps and guarantee that Canadians obtain high-quality healthcare, immigrants are essential. The main arguments for Canada’s need for more foreign healthcare workers in 2025 and beyond are listed below.
1. Aging Population and Increased Healthcare Needs
With a large percentage of its residents over 65, Canada’s population is aging quickly. Statistics Canada predicts that around 25% of Canadians will be elderly by 2030. The need for hospital care, long-term care, and home healthcare services is rising as a result of this demographic shift. Essential medical and support services are provided by immigrant healthcare professionals, helping to fulfill this expanding need.
2. Shortage of Skilled Healthcare Workers
There is a serious scarcity of physicians, nurses, and other healthcare workers in many parts of Canada, particularly in rural and isolated communities. Longer wait times and more strain on current employees are the results of healthcare facilities’ difficulties filling vacancies, according to reports from the Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI). By filling important posts and bringing in much-needed expertise, immigrants assist in mitigating these shortages.
3. High Retirement Rates Among Canadian Healthcare Workers
Many of Canada’s present healthcare professionals are getting close to retirement. For instance, a large portion of doctors and nurses are anticipated to retire in the upcoming ten years, leaving a gap in the workforce. To ensure continuity in healthcare services and to replace retiring professionals, the government aggressively seeks out talented immigrants.
4. Expansion of Healthcare Services
The Canadian healthcare sector is growing as a result of advancements in medical technology and a greater emphasis on specialized care. More employment prospects are brought about by this expansion in fields including physiotherapy, mental health services, and elder care. The expansion of healthcare facilities is supported and the need is met by immigrants with experience in these disciplines.
5. Contribution to Diverse and Culturally Competent Care
Canada is a multicultural country with a diverse population that includes many immigrants. Having healthcare professionals from different cultural backgrounds improves patient care by ensuring better communication, understanding of cultural sensitivities, and personalized medical treatment. Immigrant healthcare workers help bridge language and cultural barriers, leading to more inclusive healthcare services.
6. Government Initiatives to Attract Healthcare Professionals
Recognizing the urgent need for healthcare workers, the Canadian government has introduced several immigration programs to attract skilled professionals. These include:
Express Entry– Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) with healthcare-specific streams
Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) for hiring healthcare workers in Atlantic Canada
Caregiver Programs for personal support workers and home caregivers
These initiatives make it easier for foreign-trained professionals to immigrate and work in Canada’s healthcare sector.
Top Healthcare Professions for Immigrants in Canada
To address a labor shortage in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities, Canada is aggressively seeking qualified healthcare professionals. Foreign-trained professionals have great employment opportunities in a variety of healthcare professions due to an aging population and rising healthcare demands. The top healthcare occupations in Canada for immigrants are listed below, along with information on employment prospects, pay, and license requirements.
1. Registered Nurses (RNs) & Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs)
Job Outlook
Nursing is one of the most in-demand healthcare professions in Canada. The demand for Registered Nurses (RNs) and Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) continues to grow, especially in hospitals, nursing homes, and home healthcare services.
Average Salary
- Registered Nurses (RNs): CAD 70,000 – $100,000 per year.
- Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs): CAD 50,000 – $75,000 per year.
Requirements for Immigrants
- A nursing degree or diploma from a recognized institution.
- Passing the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) for RNs.
- Meeting provincial licensing requirements through organizations such as:
- College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO).
- British Columbia College of Nurses and Midwives (BCCNM).
- Language proficiency (IELTS or CELBAN).
Best Provinces for Nursing Jobs
- Ontario
- British Columbia
- Alberta
- Nova Scotia
2. Physicians and Specialists
Job Outlook
There is a severe shortage of General Practitioners (GPs) and medical specialists in Canada, especially in rural and remote areas. The government is actively recruiting foreign-trained doctors through programs like the Practice-Ready Assessment (PRA).
Average Salary
General Practitioners (GPs): CAD 120,000 – $250,000 per year.
Medical Specialists (e.g., surgeons, anesthesiologists): CAD 200,000 – $400,000 per year.
Requirements for Immigrants
- A medical degree from a recognized institution.
- Certification through the Medical Council of Canada (MCC).
- Provincial licensure from regulatory bodies like the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO).
- Completion of residency training in Canada or an equivalent assessment.
Best Provinces for Physicians
- British Columbia
- Alberta
- Ontario
- Saskatchewan
3. Pharmacists
Job Outlook
Pharmacists play a crucial role in Canada’s healthcare system by ensuring safe medication use and providing patient counseling. The demand for pharmacists is high, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
Average Salary
CAD 80,000 – $120,000 per year
Requirements for Immigrants
- A degree in pharmacy from a recognized institution.
- Passing the Pharmacy Examining Board of Canada (PEBC) exam.
- Provincial licensure from regulatory bodies such as the Ontario College of Pharmacists (OCP).
Best Provinces for Pharmacists
- Ontario
- British Columbia
- Manitoba
4. Medical Laboratory Technologists
Job Outlook
With increasing reliance on medical diagnostics, there is a strong demand for laboratory technologists in hospitals, research centers, and private clinics.
Average Salary
CAD 60,000 – $90,000 per year
Requirements for Immigrants
- A degree or diploma in medical laboratory science.
- Certification from the Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science (CSMLS).
Best Provinces for Medical Technologists
- Alberta
- Ontario
- Nova Scotia
5. Personal Support Workers (PSWs) & Caregivers
Job Outlook
Personal Support Workers (PSWs) and caregivers provide essential assistance to elderly and disabled individuals in hospitals, long-term care homes, and private residences. The demand for these professionals continues to rise.
Average Salary
CAD 35,000 – $50,000 per year
Requirements for Immigrants
- Completion of a caregiving or PSW training program.
- Certification from provincial organizations.
- Employers often provide job offers with visa sponsorship.
Best Provinces for Caregivers
- Ontario
- Manitoba
- British Columbia
6. Physiotherapists & Occupational Therapists
Job Outlook
As the need for rehabilitation services grows, physiotherapists and occupational therapists are increasingly in demand in hospitals, private clinics, and rehabilitation centres.
Average Salary
CAD 75,000 – $110,000 per year
Requirements for Immigrants
- A degree in physiotherapy or occupational therapy.
- Certification from the Canadian Alliance of Physiotherapy Regulators (CAPR) or the Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists (CAOT).
Best Provinces for Physiotherapists & Occupational Therapists
- British Columbia
- Alberta
- Quebec
7. Radiologic and Medical Imaging Technologists
Job Outlook
Advancements in medical imaging and early disease detection have increased the demand for radiologic technologists in hospitals and diagnostic centers.
Average Salary
CAD 65,000 – $95,000 per year
Requirements for Immigrants
- A degree or diploma in radiologic technology.
- Certification from the Canadian Association of Medical Radiation Technologists (CAMRT).
Best Provinces for Radiologic Technologists
- Ontario
- British Columbia
- Alberta
8. Dentists and Dental Hygienists
Job Outlook
Oral healthcare is a growing industry in Canada, with high demand for dentists and dental hygienists, especially in rural and underserved areas.
Average Salary
Dentists: CAD 100,000 – $250,000 per year
Dental Hygienists: CAD 60,000 – $90,000 per year
Requirements for Immigrants
- A degree in dentistry from a recognized institution.
- Passing the National Dental Examining Board of Canada (NDEB) exam.
- Licensure from a provincial dental association.
Best Provinces for Dentists
- Alberta
- British Columbia
- Saskatchewan
9. Mental Health Professionals (Psychologists & Counselors)
Job Outlook
The demand for mental health services has increased significantly, leading to a growing need for psychologists and counselors in hospitals, schools, and private practice.
Average Salary
Psychologists: CAD 80,000 – $120,000 per year
Mental Health Counselors: CAD 50,000 – $85,000 per year
Requirements for Immigrants
- A degree in psychology or counseling.
- Certification from the Canadian Psychological Association (CPA) or relevant provincial boards.
Best Provinces for Mental Health Professionals
- Ontario
- British Columbia
- Quebec
Immigration Pathways for Healthcare Workers
Canada actively welcomes healthcare professionals through various immigration programs designed to fill labor shortages in the medical sector. If you are a foreign-trained doctor, nurse, caregiver, or other healthcare professional, there are multiple pathways to obtaining permanent residency (PR) and work in Canada. Below are the main immigration programs available for healthcare workers in 2025.
1. Express Entry – Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
Overview
The Express Entry system is one of the fastest and most popular immigration pathways for skilled workers, including healthcare professionals. It operates through a points-based Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), where candidates are ranked based on factors such as age, education, work experience, and language proficiency.
Eligibility Criteria for Healthcare Workers
- A recognized healthcare degree or diploma
- At least one year of work experience in a healthcare profession
- Language proficiency (IELTS or CELPIP)
- Credential assessment through the Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)
- A competitive CRS score to receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency
Healthcare Occupations Eligible Under Express Entry
- Registered Nurses (RNs)
- Medical Laboratory Technologists
- Pharmacists
- Physiotherapists
- Occupational Therapists
Processing Time
- 6 months (after receiving an ITA and submitting the application)
Best for: Skilled healthcare workers with high education and work experience who meet the CRS cut-off.
2. Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) – Healthcare Streams
Overview
Each Canadian province has a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) that allows them to select immigrants based on labor market needs. Many provinces have dedicated PNP streams for healthcare professionals, making it easier for qualified workers to obtain permanent residency.
Top PNPs for Healthcare Workers
| Province | PNP Healthcare Stream | Eligible Occupations |
|---|---|---|
| Ontario | Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) – Health Sector Stream | Nurses, Physicians, Medical Lab Technologists |
| British Columbia | BC PNP Healthcare Professional Stream | Doctors, Nurses, Allied Health Workers |
| Alberta | Alberta PNP – Healthcare Pathway | General Practitioners, Specialists, Dentists |
| Manitoba | Manitoba PNP – Healthcare Stream | Registered Nurses, Physiotherapists, Caregivers |
| Nova Scotia | Nova Scotia PNP – Physician Stream | Doctors, Family Physicians |
| Saskatchewan | Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) – Healthcare Professionals | Nurses, Medical Technologists, Psychologists |
Advantages of PNPs for Healthcare Workers
- Lower CRS score requirements compared to Express Entry.
- Direct nomination from a province adds 600 CRS points, almost guaranteeing PR.
- Some PNPs allow applications without a job offer.
Processing Time
- 6–12 months
Best for: Healthcare professionals who meet a province’s labor needs and want faster PR processing.
3. Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
Overview
The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) is designed for healthcare workers who want to settle in the Atlantic provinces: Newfoundland and Labrador, Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia, and New Brunswick.
Eligibility Requirements
- A job offer from a designated employer in the Atlantic region.
- At least one year of work experience in a healthcare profession.
- High school diploma or post-secondary education.
- Language proficiency (CLB 4 or higher).
Healthcare Jobs in Demand Under AIP
- Personal Support Workers (PSWs)
- Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs)
- Family Physicians
- Medical Radiation Technologists
Processing Time
- 6–12 months
Best for: Healthcare professionals willing to work in Atlantic Canada and who have a job offer.
4. Caregiver Programs
Overview
Canada offers special immigration pathways for caregivers who provide support to children, seniors, and people with disabilities. There are two main caregiver programs leading to permanent residency:
- Home Child Care Provider Pilot (HCCP)
- Home Support Worker Pilot (HSWP)
Eligibility Requirements
- At least one year of experience as a caregiver.
- A valid job offer from a Canadian employer.
- Post-secondary education equivalent to a Canadian diplomat.
- Language proficiency (CLB 5 or higher).
Processing Time
- 12–24 months
Best for: Personal Support Workers (PSWs), nannies, and home caregivers seeking PR.
5. Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP)
Overview
The Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP) is aimed at attracting healthcare workers to smaller communities across Canada. Participating rural communities work with local employers to sponsor foreign healthcare professionals.
Eligibility Requirements
- A job offer from an employer in a participating rural community.
- At least one year of relevant work experience.
- Credential assessment (ECA) for foreign qualifications.
- Language proficiency (CLB 4 or higher).
Healthcare Professions in Demand Under RNIP
- Nurses
- Pharmacists
- Physiotherapists
- Medical Technologists
Best for: Healthcare workers willing to settle in smaller communities with easier immigration pathways.
6. Temporary Work Permits for Healthcare Workers
Overview
Foreign healthcare professionals can work temporarily in Canada before applying for permanent residency through:
- Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA)-Based Work Permits.
- International Mobility Program (IMP) – for LMIA-exempt job offers.
- Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) – for international students in healthcare programs.
Processing Time
- 3–6 months
Best for: Healthcare workers seeking immediate employment with the option to apply for PR later.
Which Immigration Pathway is Right for You?
| Your Situation | Best Immigration Pathway |
|---|---|
| You have high education and work experience | Express Entry – FSWP |
| You have a job offer in a specific province | PNP |
| You want to work in Atlantic Canada | Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) |
| You work as a caregiver | Caregiver Programs (HCCP/HSWP) |
| Do you prefer small-town living | Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP) |
| Do you want to work in Canada before applying for PR | Temporary Work Permit |
Conclusion
Canada’s healthcare sector offers a wealth of opportunities for skilled immigrants looking to build a stable and rewarding career. With increasing demand for professionals in nursing, medicine, pharmacy, and caregiving, the country continues to prioritize healthcare workers in its immigration policies. By obtaining the necessary credentials, meeting licensing requirements, and applying through suitable immigration programs, foreign-trained professionals can find fulfilling jobs and contribute to Canada’s world-class healthcare system.
As Canada’s population ages and healthcare needs expand, the demand for skilled workers will only continue to grow. If you are considering a move to Canada as a healthcare professional, now is the perfect time to take advantage of the available opportunities. With the right preparation and guidance, you can secure a prosperous future in one of the most stable and welcoming countries in the world.
