Canada needs more healthcare workers, so it’s a prime chance for foreign healthcare workers to get temporary work permits here.
Healthcare is also a top path to becoming a permanent resident in Canada.
Even before COVID-19, Canada lacked enough healthcare workers. The pandemic made the shortage even worse.
If you’ve got healthcare skills and want to move to Canada, now’s a great time.
How Come About Shortage of Healthcare Workers in Canada
In March, the Canadian Medical Association (CMA) raised a serious concern about the shortage of healthcare workers in Canada. The CMA warned that:
- After two years of dealing with the pandemic, organizations representing health workers nationwide are alarmed that Canada’s healthcare system is on the verge of collapse.
- Without quick action, the outlook for the future is bleak. While Canadians are starting to see improvements and fewer COVID-19 restrictions, the situation for healthcare workers remains challenging.
In addition to extreme exhaustion and burnout from two years of battling COVID-19, healthcare workers now also face significant backlogs in the system and a shortage of colleagues to handle the workload.
So, sit tight for a ride on what you should be preparing for in 2024.
5 Most In Demand Healthcare Jobs in Canada for Foreigners
Here are 5 most in demand healthcare jobs in Canada for foreigners:
#1. Registered Nurse (NOC 3012)
As of September 13, 2022, Indeed.ca lists a substantial 12,939 job postings for registered nursing positions across Canada.
In Canada, registered nurses typically earn a yearly median wage ranging from $51,246 to $94,321 for a standard 37.5-hour work week.
Requirements for the role:
- Possess a valid nursing license.
- Demonstrated ability to work in a team.
- Strong communication skills.
- Familiarity with healthcare protocols and standards.
- Willingness to adapt to evolving healthcare practices.
#2. Licensed Practical Nurses (NOC 3233)
In Canada, healthcare facilities offer Licensed Practical Nurse positions to foreign healthcare workers with less education or experience compared to registered nurses.
As of September 2022, Indeed.ca displays 2,928 job postings for these healthcare workers.
Licensed practical nurses in Canada typically earn yearly wages ranging from $42,900 to $64,798 for a standard 37.5-hour work week.
Requirements for the role:
- Possess a valid practical nursing license.
- Ability to work efficiently within a healthcare team.
- Effective communication skills.
- Understanding of healthcare protocols and standards.
- Adaptability to changes in healthcare practices.
#3. Hospital Administrator (NOC 0014)
Hospital administrators are usually part of the managerial team within hospitals.
Their main responsibility is to make sure that high-quality patient care and clinical services are provided while staying within the hospital’s budget.
In Canada, healthcare managers earn salaries ranging from $38,961 to $182,227, depending on their level of management position.
Requirements for the role:
- Demonstrated experience in hospital management or administration.
- Strong leadership and organizational skills.
- Ability to manage budgets effectively.
- Understanding of healthcare regulations and standards.
- Proficiency in communication and interpersonal skills.
#4. Medical Laboratory Technician (NOC 3212)
Laboratory technicians play a crucial role in conducting medical tests for patients and ensuring the cleanliness and safety of medical laboratory equipment.
In Canada, medical laboratory technicians earn yearly salaries ranging from $36,172 to $78,000 for a standard 37.5-hour work week.
Requirements for the role:
- Completion of a medical laboratory technician program.
- Proficiency in conducting various medical tests.
- Attention to detail for maintaining sanitary conditions.
- Ability to work efficiently within a laboratory team.
- Adherence to safety protocols and procedures.
#5. Home Support Worker (NOC 4412)
Home support workers offer daily assistance to individuals who require medical care or companionship in their homes.
It is projected that there will be 33,900 job openings for home support workers in Canada over the next five years.
With Canada having one of the world’s aging populations, approximately 9 million Canadians are expected to reach the retirement age of 65 by 2030.
Given these statistics, recruiting foreign home support workers will remain a top priority for IRCC.
In Canada, home support workers can earn yearly salaries ranging from $26,247 to $45,006 for a standard 37.5-hour work week
Requirements for the role:
- Completion of relevant training or certification.
- Compassionate and empathetic nature.
- Ability to provide personal care and companionship.
- Understanding of medical conditions and basic healthcare practices.
- Flexibility to adapt to the needs of clients and their families.
FAQs
#1. What is the best healthcare job in Canada?Â
Registered nurses are always in demand in healthcare. Some more options includes:
- Nurse Practitioner.
- Physician Assistant.
- Speech-Language Pathologist.
- Occupational Therapist.
- Veterinarian.
- Nurse Anesthetist.
- Physical Therapist.
#2. What is the most paid health care job in Canada?
Ever thought about Canada’s top-paying job? Not surprising, but some of the highest-paying gigs are in healthcare, like being a Family Physician (median salary: $250,000) or an Orthopaedic Surgeon (median salary: $335,000).
Conclusion
More older folks and retirements mean lots of chances in healthcare. These jobs often rank high on Canadian Business magazine’s list of top 50 jobs.
Government sites like WorkinginCanada.gc.ca also show big opportunities in healthcare.
Healthcare workers rarely struggle to find work. Their unemployment rates are lower, around 1.3 to 2.6 per cent, while other sectors see rates as high as seven to 11 per cent.