Top Health Jobs in Canada for Foreign Workers and PR Visas

By Visa Jobs CanadaSeptember 9, 2025September 9, 2025In Demand OccupationsCanadian immigration, health sector jobs, temporary foreign workers, visa sponsorship, work permits

Canada’s Growing Demand for Foreign Healthcare Workers

Canada’s healthcare sector is facing significant staff shortages, creating numerous opportunities for international job seekers. Hospitals, long-term care facilities, and home support services are struggling to fill essential roles. To address this challenge, many employers are looking to temporary foreign workers (TFWs) to help keep operations running smoothly. If you’re considering a move to Canada, this sector might be one of your best bets!

TFWs are increasingly important for direct care positions that don’t require full medical licensing. Common roles include nurse aides, orderlies, caregivers, and registered nurses—positions that not only allow you to contribute meaningfully to the community but can also pave the way for permanent residency (PR) in Canada. Let’s dive into some key healthcare roles that are in high demand.

Nurse Aides and Orderlies (NOC 33102)

Job Overview: Nurse aides, orderlies, and patient service associates primarily assist patients in hospitals or long-term care facilities. Your responsibilities would include tasks like feeding, bathing, helping with mobility, and noting any changes in a patient’s condition.

Why It Attracts TFWs: This role is widely needed across Canada, especially in nursing homes and home care. Many employers are keen on hiring TFWs through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program or recruiting from local colleges.

Average Salary:

National average: $42,000 – $52,000 per year
Higher wages often found in urban hospitals and northern communities.

Immigration Pathways:

Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
Canadian Experience Class (CEC) for those with relevant work experience.

Home Support Workers and Caregivers (NOC 44101)

Job Overview: These workers provide crucial personal care for seniors and individuals with disabilities. Responsibilities may include assistance with daily activities, meal preparation, and sometimes minor medical tasks.

Why It Attracts TFWs: This entry-level position often offers LMIA-supported work permits, forming the backbone of many immigration pathways for caregivers.

Average Salary:

National average: $35,000 – $45,000 per year
Many roles include free room and board if living with the employer.

Immigration Pathways:

Home Child Care Provider Pilot (HCCPP)
Home Support Worker Pilot (HSWP)
PNP streams focused on caregivers.

Registered Nurses (NOC 31301)

Job Overview: Registered nurses assess patients, administer medications, and work closely with doctors in various healthcare settings.

Why It Attracts TFWs: With severe shortages of RNs in provinces like Ontario, British Columbia, and Nova Scotia, many are recruiting internationally trained nurses. Bridging programs can assist foreign-trained RNs in meeting Canadian standards.

Average Salary:

National average: $70,000 – $90,000 per year
In remote areas, salaries can exceed $100,000.

Immigration Pathways:

Express Entry (Federal Skilled Worker Program or CEC)
PNP streams prioritising healthcare roles.

How to Transition to Permanent Residency

Taking a job as a TFW in healthcare isn’t just a temporary solution; it often leads to permanent residency. Many of these positions offer clear immigration pathways. With outstanding performance and experience gained in Canada, you can typically transition to PR in under two years.

The 2025–2027 Immigration Levels Plan highlights health professionals as a priority for both economic immigration and pilot programs. For TFWs with job offers, options include:

Applying for Express Entry with a lower Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score.
Receiving PNP nominations from provinces with urgent labour needs.
Being selected in targeted category-based Express Entry draws for healthcare professions.

Tips for TFWs Seeking Healthcare Jobs in Canada

Check the NOC code to ensure it matches your qualifications.
Enhance your English or French skills to meet Express Entry requirements.
Look at provinces with active PNP streams and high demand for your occupation.
Connect with employers who have LMIA approval or are actively recruiting internationally.

If you’re exploring healthcare job opportunities from overseas, visiting VisaJobsCanada.com can be a fantastic first step. We focus specifically on Canadian jobs that offer visa sponsorship to international applicants.