Healthcare Jobs in Canada for Foreign Workers 2023

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Although Canada’s healthcare system is globally renowned for its excellence, It still faces a continuous shortage in the labor force. Hence the massive increase in the healthcare jobs in Canada for the foreign workers in 2023.

Canada’s healthcare sector has experienced a labor shortage even before the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the shortage of healthcare staff worsened after the pandemic. 

To offset this deficiency, the Canadian medical association (CMA) announced the need for more healthcare workers in Canada. In fact, in June 2022, Canada announced the launch of a $1.5 million project structured to help foreign healthcare workers get their documents accessible and recognized by the Canadian government 

Therefore, if you are considering immigrating to Canada as a healthcare worker, the good news is job vacancies are awaiting you. Additionally,you can explore diverse career fields in Canada with little or no restrictions. 

In this article, we will explore the top healthcare jobs in Canada for foreign workers, and also the average salary expectations for these jobs.

Top 12 Healthcare Jobs in Canada for foreign workers

  1. Registered Nurse
  2. Physician
  3. Dentist
  4. Pharmacist
  5. Medical Laboratory Technologist
  6. Physiotherapist
  7. Occupational 
  8. Speech-Language Pathologist
  9. Medical Radiation Technologist
  10. Medical Doctor in Public Health
  11. Home Support Worker

Registered Nurse

Registered nurses (RNs) are in high demand in Canada. RNs provide care to patients in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities. They work alongside other healthcare professionals to develop treatment plans for patients.

As of 2023, the average salary for RNs in Canada is approximately $72,933 per year or $37.40 per hour (According to talent.com) The potential for higher earnings depends on location and experience.

Find out other countries hiring registered nurses with highly competitive salaries in this article on 15 Highest Paying Countries in Need of Nurses 2023

Physician

Physicians are highly skilled medical professionals who diagnose and treat illnesses and conditions. As of 2023, Canada is experiencing a shortage of physicians, particularly in rural and remote areas. 

The average salary for physicians in Canada varies depending on location and specialty. As of 2023, the average salary for family physicians is approximately $250,000 per year, while specialists can earn upwards of $226,992 per year or $116 per according to talent.com. 

Dentist

Dentists are healthcare professionals who specialize in the prevention and treatment of oral health issues. As of 2023, there is a high demand for dentists in Canada, particularly in rural and remote areas. 

The average salary for dentists in Canada varies depending on location and experience. As of 2023, the average salary for dentists is approximately $170050 per year according to indeed.com. Dentists who work in private practice can earn significantly more.

Pharmacist

Pharmacists are healthcare professionals who specialize in the preparation, dispensing, and management of medication. They work in pharmacies, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities. 

The average salary for pharmacists in Canada varies depending on location and experience. As of 2023, the average salary for pharmacists is approximately $95,547 per year or $49 per hour, according to Talent.com. 

Medical Laboratory Technologist

Medical laboratory technologists (MLTs) are healthcare professionals who perform laboratory tests to diagnose and treat diseases. They work in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities.

The average salary for MLTs in Canada varies depending on location and experience. As of 2023, the average salary for MLTs is approximately $69,518 per year or $35.65 per hour, according to Talent. 

Physiotherapist

Physiotherapists are healthcare professionals who specialize in the treatment of movement disorders and injuries. They work in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities. Physiotherapists must have a degree in physiotherapy and be registered with the provincial physiotherapy regulatory authority.

The average salary for physiotherapists in Canada varies depending on location and experience. As of 2023, the average salary for physiotherapists is approximately $83,807 per year or $42.98 per hour, as reviewed by Talent.

Occupational Therapist

Occupational therapists are healthcare professionals who specialize in the treatment of individuals with physical, psychological, or social disabilities. They work in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities. 

The average salary for occupational therapists in Canada varies depending on location and experience. As of 2023, the average salary for occupational therapists is approximately $80,617 per year or $41.34 per hour.

Speech-Language Pathologist

Speech-language pathologists specialize in the assessment and treatment of communication disorders. They work in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities. Speech-language pathologists must have a degree in speech-language pathology and be registered with the provincial speech-language pathology regulatory authority.

The average salary for speech-language pathologists in Canada varies depending on location and experience. As of 2023, the average salary for speech-language pathologists is approximately $80,000 per year.

Medical Radiation Technologist

Medical radiation technologists (MRTs) are healthcare professionals who specialize in the use of radiation to diagnose and treat diseases. They work in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities. MRTs must have a degree in medical radiation technology and be registered with the provincial medical radiation technology regulatory authority.

The average salary for MRTs in Canada varies depending on location and experience. As of 2023, the average salary for MRTs is approximately $75,000 per year.

Medical Doctor in Public Health

Public health physicians specialize in the prevention and treatment of health issues in populations. They work for governments, non-governmental organizations, and other healthcare organizations. To work as a Public health physician, you must have a medical degree and you must have a provincial medical regulatory authority.

The average salary for public health physicians in Canada varies depending on location and experience. As of 2023, the average salary for public health physicians is approximately $200,000 per year. 

Home Support Worker

Home support workers offer essential daily care to individuals requiring medical assistance or companionship within their homes. With Canada’s aging population and a projected increase of 9 million Canadians reaching retirement age by 2030, there is a growing demand for home support workers. 

It is estimated that over the next five years, there will be approximately 33,900 job vacancies in this field throughout Canada. Due to these statistics and the need to address the rising demand for home support services, the recruitment of foreign home support workers remains a top priority for Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). 

In terms of compensation, home support workers in Canada can expect to earn a salary ranging from $26,247 to $45,006 per year. These figures are based on a standard 37.5-hour work week.

The combination of a growing elderly population, anticipated job vacancies, and competitive wages highlight the opportunities available for foreign individuals seeking a career as a home support worker in Canada. 

The demand for these dedicated professionals is expected to remain high, making it an attractive option for those passionate about providing care and support to those in need. This is one of the most sought after healthcare jobs in Canada.

Other High-in-Demand Healthcare Jobs in Canada

  • Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
  • Medical Sonographer
  • Clinical Research Coordinator
  • Psychologist
  • Nurse Practitioner (NP)
  • Health Informatics Specialist
  • Clinical Pharmacist
  • Medical Transcriptionist
  • Medical Illustrator
  • Health Administrator
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Requirements to Work in Canada’s Healthcare System

The requirement to work in Canada’s healthcare system may vary from province to province. However, we have provided a general guideline to help you.

1. Licensing and Certification

Most healthcare professions require foreign workers to obtain licensure or certification from the respective provincial regulatory bodies in Canada. The process involves assessments, exams, and language proficiency tests.

2. Education and Training

Foreign healthcare professionals may need to complete additional educational requirements or bridge programs to meet Canadian standards.

3. Work Permits

Foreign workers must secure a valid work permit to work in Canada. This may involve applying for employer-specific work permits or through programs like the Temporary Foreign Worker Program or International Mobility Program.

4. Language Proficiency

To qualify for any available vacancy in the healthcare sector in Canada, you must demonstrate your proficiency in English or French which is essential for effective communication in the healthcare setting. Language requirements vary by profession and province.

Conclusion on Top Healthcare Jobs in Canada

Canada offers abundant opportunities for foreign healthcare professionals seeking rewarding careers in a world-class healthcare system. The top healthcare jobs outlined in this article represent diverse fields where foreign workers can make significant impact. 

As Canada’s healthcare industry faces labor shortages and seeks to embrace cultural diversity, foreign workers bring valuable skills, knowledge, and perspectives to enhance patient care. 

While the requirements to work in Canada may include licensing, certification, education, and language proficiency, the journey is worthwhile for those who are passionate about contributing to the well-being of Canadians and being part of a thriving healthcare system.

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