In-Demand Healthcare Jobs in Canada for Immigrants 2026. Canada is known for its public healthcare system, but with more people getting older and needing care, the demand for healthcare workers is growing fast. For immigrants planning to move to Canada in 2026, this rising need creates a lot of job opportunities in the healthcare field. The high demand is not only for doctors and nurses.
There is also a big need for healthcare assistants, support workers, home care helpers, and other roles. Many areas in Canada, especially rural and northern regions, are facing a shortage of medical staff. These places often struggle to find enough professionals, which opens the door for newcomers to step in and help.
For immigrants, this is more than just a job chance, it can also lead to permanent residency. Healthcare jobs are now seen as key positions for long-term settlement programs.
“The demand is growing mostly due to an aging population, a large number of workers retiring, and limited access to healthcare in certain areas of the country.” – Government of Canada
Overview of the In-Demand Healthcare Jobs in Canada
| Title | In-Demand Healthcare Jobs in Canada |
| Administered By | Healthcare Canada |
| Job Positions | Nursing assistants, home care workers, and similar roles |
| Immigration Route | Apply through Express Entry or receive a PNP nomination |
| Average Salary | Between $35,000 and $100,000 per year |
| Intended Applicants | International or Foreign Job Seekers |
| Post Category | Finance |
| Official Website | Canada.ca |
Top 5 Healthcare Jobs in Canada
1) Nurse Aides, Patient Service Associates & Orderlies in Canada
One of the most in-demand healthcare roles in Canada is for Nurse Aides, Patient Service Associates, and Orderlies. These workers give important support to patients in hospitals, long-term care homes, and even in private homes. Their daily tasks can include helping patients with bathing, dressing, eating, and moving around safely.
This job is key to making sure patients get proper care and comfort, especially in places with staff shortages. There is a strong need for these workers in both big cities and rural or northern areas.
National Average Salary:
- Average salary: $42,000 to $52,000 per year.
- Higher pay available in urban hospitals.
- Remote or northern areas may offer increased wages due to demand.
Immigration Options:
Foreign workers interested in this role can apply to come to Canada through programs like:
- Atlantic Immigration Program.
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC).
These pathways can help lead to permanent residency in the future.
2) Caregivers / Home Support Workers
Caregivers and Home Support Workers help take care of seniors, people with disabilities, or those recovering at home. They provide personal care like helping with daily activities and making sure the person is comfortable.
Jobs like these often come with LMIA-supported work permits, which means employers get approval to hire foreign workers.
National Average Salary:
- $35,000 to $45,000 per year.
- Sometimes it includes a free room if living with the employer.
If you want to work in Canada as a caregiver, there are several ways to apply.
Immigration Pathways:
- Home Support Worker Pilot.
- Home Child Care Provider Pilot.
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC).
- Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) for caregivers.
These programs make it easier for foreign workers to come to Canada and may help them get permanent residency later on.
3) Registered Nurses and Psychiatric Nurses
Registered Nurses and Psychiatric Nurses work in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare places. They give medicines to patients and help take care of their mental health. These jobs are important for making sure patients get the right treatment and support.
The average salary for nurses in Canada is between $70,000 and $90,000 per year. Nurses working in northern or remote areas can earn more, sometimes over $100,000 a year because of higher demand.
If you are a nurse from another country, you can apply to work in Canada through different immigration programs.
National Average Salary:
- $70,000 to $90,000 per year.
- $100,000 or more in northern or remote areas.
Immigration Pathways:
- Express Entry.
- Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot.
- Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) for healthcare jobs.
4) Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs)
Licensed Practical Nurses usually work under the supervision of Registered Nurses or doctors. They help with patient care, such as checking vital signs, giving medications, and assisting with daily tasks. LPNs play an important role in hospitals, clinics, and care homes.
The average salary for Licensed Practical Nurses in Canada is around $55,000 to $65,000 per year. This can vary depending on the region and workplace.
If you are a foreign worker wanting to work as an LPN in Canada, there are several immigration options you can use to apply.
National Average Salary:
- $55,000 to $65,000 per year.
Immigration Pathways:
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).
- Employer LMIA Work Permit.
- Express Entry.
5) Medical Laboratory Technologists and Assistants
Medical Laboratory Technologists and Assistants do important tests like blood work, tissue samples, and checking body fluids to help doctors diagnose and treat patients.
The average salary for Medical Laboratory Technologists in Canada is about $60,000 to $80,000 per year, while Assistants usually earn between $40,000 and $50,000 per year.
If you are a foreign worker, there are different ways to apply to work in these jobs in Canada.
National Average Salary:
- Technologists: $60,000 to $80,000 per year.
- Assistants: $40,000 to $50,000 per year.
Immigration Pathways:
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) in Alberta, British Columbia, Ontario.
- Occupation in Demand Streams (Saskatchewan).
- Express Entry.
FAQs for In-Demand Healthcare Jobs in Canada for Immigrants 2026
Yes, many jobs accept international workers.
Nurse aides, home support workers, and caregivers.
Yes, it’s required.
Ontario, Quebec, BC, plus faster options in rural and Atlantic areas.
Between $35,000 and $100,000 per year.