As of early 2025, Canada continues to attract foreign workers across various sectors, offering competitive salaries that vary by industry, occupation, and region. Recent adjustments to wage thresholds and median wages reflect the country’s evolving economic landscape and its commitment to fair compensation for all workers. The Canadian government has implemented measures to ensure foreign workers receive fair wages, maintain proper working conditions, and have opportunities to contribute effectively to the economy. These efforts have made Canada a preferred destination for skilled professionals and labourers worldwide.
In Canada, the compensation for foreign workers varies significantly based on factors such as occupation, industry, experience, and the specific immigration program under which they are employed. As of recent data, the average salary for foreign workers is approximately CAD 48,750 per year, equating to about CAD 25 per hour. Entry-level positions start around CAD 40,706 annually, while experienced workers can earn up to CAD 79,581 per year.
Salary Data For Foreign Workers In Canada
The Canadian government classifies positions for temporary foreign workers into high-wage and low-wage categories, determined by provincial or territorial wage thresholds. For instance, as of November 8, 2024, the wage threshold in Ontario is CAD 34.07 per hour. Positions offering wages at or above this threshold are considered high-wage, while those below are categorized as low-wage.
Wage Thresholds for Foreign Workers
Effective November 8, 2024, Canada implemented a 20% increase in the provincial and territorial wage thresholds used to determine the application stream for the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP). These wage thresholds help classify applications into two categories:
- High-Wage Stream: Employers offering wages at or above the designated threshold must apply under this category. High-wage positions often come with additional benefits such as permanent residency pathways, employer-sponsored perks, and a more streamlined immigration process. Workers in this category may also have access to expedited processing for work permits and support in obtaining permanent residency through economic immigration programs such as the Express Entry system.
- Low-Wage Stream: Employers offering wages below the threshold must apply under this category. While low-wage jobs provide valuable opportunities for foreign workers, they may have stricter conditions, such as limits on work permits and employer-specific restrictions. Workers under this category often find employment in sectors such as agriculture, hospitality, and retail, where demand for labour remains consistently high. However, they may face limitations on career progression and fewer opportunities for transitioning to permanent residency.
For example, in Ontario, the wage threshold increased from $28.39 to $34.07 per hour, and in British Columbia, from $28.85 to $34.62 per hour. These changes reflect inflation adjustments and labour demand trends, ensuring that wages remain competitive for foreign workers. Additionally, provinces experiencing high labour shortages have adjusted their wage thresholds accordingly to attract skilled professionals and support economic growth.
Median Wages by Province/Territory
In addition to wage thresholds, median hourly wages have been updated to reflect current labour market conditions. Median wages are critical in determining application eligibility under the TFWP and can vary significantly by province or territory:
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1. Alberta – $29.50 per hour
Alberta boasts some of the highest wages in Canada, driven largely by its strong oil and gas industry. Engineering, construction, and skilled trades professionals, such as welders, electricians, and mechanics, are in high demand. The province also offers competitive salaries in healthcare and information technology (IT) sectors.
2. British Columbia – $28.85 per hour
As a major hub for technology, tourism, and service industries, British Columbia offers attractive wages, particularly in cities like Vancouver. The province experiences steady growth in IT, finance, healthcare, and construction, which fuels rising salaries. The cost of living, especially housing, is higher than in many other provinces, contributing to wage adjustments.
3. Ontario – $28.39 per hour
Ontario, home to Canada’s financial and technological centers, has strong demand for both skilled and semi-skilled workers. Industries such as banking, fintech, manufacturing, healthcare, and logistics drive wages up. Toronto and Ottawa provide higher salaries, particularly in technology and engineering fields, while rural areas offer steady employment opportunities in agriculture and manufacturing.
4. Quebec – $26.00 per hour
Quebec’s diverse economy includes aerospace, healthcare, manufacturing, and technology. The province offers competitive wages to attract skilled foreign workers, particularly in Montreal, where IT, AI, and software development sectors are booming. Additionally, Quebec has strong opportunities in research, pharmaceuticals, and engineering. French proficiency is often required for many roles.
5. Saskatchewan – $27.50 per hour
Saskatchewan’s economy is largely driven by agriculture, mining, and natural resources. The province offers competitive wages for foreign workers, especially in farming, construction, and skilled trades. There is also a growing demand for healthcare professionals and IT specialists in urban centers like Regina and Saskatoon.
6. Manitoba – $26.50 per hour
Manitoba provides a balanced labour market with opportunities in both urban and rural areas. Key industries include manufacturing, agriculture, transportation, and healthcare. While wages are slightly lower compared to Alberta and Ontario, the lower cost of living makes the province attractive for foreign workers. Winnipeg, the capital city, is a major employment hub.
7. Newfoundland and Labrador – $26.00 per hour
Newfoundland and Labrador’s wages are influenced by its resource-based industries, such as fisheries, oil extraction, and mining. Skilled trade workers, such as offshore drillers, electricians, and engineers, are well-compensated. The province also offers stable employment in healthcare and public services.
8. Nova Scotia – $24.50 per hour
While wages in Nova Scotia are slightly lower than in other provinces, the cost of living is also more affordable. The province has a growing demand for healthcare workers, hospitality professionals, and skilled tradespeople. Halifax, the capital, is a key center for financial services, government jobs, and emerging tech startups.
These figures help foreign workers and employers understand fair market wages and ensure that compensation aligns with industry standards. Higher median wages are often associated with regions that have strong job markets, higher living costs, and increased demand for skilled workers. Understanding these wage differences is essential for job seekers looking to make informed career decisions and optimize their earning potential in Canada.
Average Salaries for Foreign Workers
The average salary for foreign workers in Canada is approximately $47,500 per year, equating to about $24.36 per hour. Salary ranges vary depending on experience, job role, and industry. Here is a breakdown of salary variations:
- Entry-Level Positions: Starting salaries for new foreign workers range from $39,156 to $45,000 annually. These roles typically include generallabourr, administrative assistants, and customer service representatives. Many entry-level foreign workers use these roles as stepping stones to gain Canadian work experience and advance to higher-paying jobs.
- Mid-Level Positions: Foreign workers with a few years of experience can expect salaries between $50,000 and $75,000 per year, which includes roles like IT technicians, healthcare assistants, and skilled trades. Workers in this category often benefit from career progression opportunities and employer-sponsored training programs.
- Experienced Workers: Senior-level professionals and highly skilled foreign workers can earn up to $88,793 or more per year, particularly in high-demand industries such as healthcare, engineering, and technology. These individuals may also qualify for leadership positions and exclusive job openings in their respective fields.
High-Paying Sectors for Foreign Workers
Certain industries in Canada offer higher-than-average salaries for foreign workers, particularly in sectors experiencing labour shortages or requiring specialized skills. Below are some of the highest-paying sectors:
Information Technology (IT)
Canada’s tech industry continues to grow, offering high salaries and numerous job opportunities for foreign workers. Roles such as:
- Software Developers: $80,000 – $120,000 per year
- Data Scientists: $90,000 – $150,000 per year
- Cybersecurity Specialists: $100,000 – $180,000 per year
The demand for tech professionals is particularly high in cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal, which are home to some of the country’s biggest tech companies. Many tech companies offer work-from-home flexibility, which appeals to foreign workers seeking work-life balance.
Healthcare
The healthcare sector remains one of the most critical and highest-paying industries in Canada, with salaries reflecting the growing need for skilled professionals. Common roles include:
- Doctors: $150,000 – $350,000 per year
- Registered Nurses: $70,000 – $110,000 per year
- Pharmacists: $90,000 – $130,000 per year
Due to ageing populations and ongoing healthcare demands, foreign-trained medical professionals are increasingly welcomed in Canada. Various provinces offer programs to fast-track the licensing process for foreign-trained healthcare workers.
Skilled Trades
Skilled trades are in high demand across Canada, providing well-paying opportunities for foreign workers. Key roles include:
- Electricians: $60,000 – $90,000 per year
- Plumbers: $50,000 – $80,000 per year
- Welders: $55,000 – $85,000 per year
These roles are particularly sought after in provinces like Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba, where construction and infrastructure projects are booming. Employers often provide on-the-job training and support for foreign workers seeking certification in Canada.
Conclusion
The Canadian market in 2025 presents diverse opportunities for foreign workers, with competitive salaries across multiple sectors. The recent adjustments in wage thresholds and median wages demonstrate Canada’s commitment to attracting and fairly compensating international talent. Staying updated on industry trends, salary expectations, and job opportunities can help foreign workers navigate the Canadian job market successfully.
It’s important to note that wages offered to temporary foreign workers should align with those paid to Canadian employees in similar roles and locations, considering comparable skills and experience. Employers are required to pay the prevailing wage, defined as the highest of either the median wage listed on Job Bank or the wage range paid to current employees in the same position and location.
Additionally, certain high-demand sectors offer lucrative opportunities for foreign workers. These sectors include technology, healthcare, engineering, finance, and skilled trades. For example, roles such as software engineers, data scientists, physicians, registered nurses, and various engineering positions are among the high-paying jobs available to foreign professionals in Canada.
Foreign workers must research specific industries and regions within Canada to understand the salary expectations and opportunities available, as these can vary widely across the country.
