Immigrate to Canada as a Surgery Specialist in 2025
Canada is on the lookout for skilled surgeons, as they are among the 79 occupations targeted in the Express Entry draws for 2025. As the demand for healthcare services continues to rise, particularly in surgery, the nation is keen on attracting qualified specialists through its economic immigration programs.
According to the Canadian Occupational Projection System (COPS), by 2031, Canada may face a shortage of around 5,800 specialist surgical positions due to an aging population and increasingly complex health conditions. This gap presents a compelling opportunity for foreign-trained surgeons considering a move to Canada.
What’s Inside This Guide
- Job outlook and earnings for surgical specialists
- Provinces with high demand for surgeons
- How to qualify for Express Entry as a surgeon
- Understanding the surgeon shortage in Canada
- Exploring immigration options through Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
Job Prospects for Surgical Specialists
The COPS projects that from 2022 to 2031, Canada will see approximately 29,800 job openings for specialist physicians, including surgeons. However, a mere 24,000 job seekers are expected to fill these roles, resulting in a shortfall of 5,800 specialists over the decade.
According to current data, the employment outlook for surgeons is:
- Very good in: Ontario, British Columbia, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island
- Good in: Alberta and Quebec
The median salary for surgical specialists is an impressive $273,510 per year, with earnings typically ranging from $100,694 to $557,366, influenced by factors like location and experience.
Navigating the Express Entry Pathway for Surgeons
In 2023, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) implemented category-based selection draws under Express Entry, and surgeons remain a key focus in 2025. Eligible candidates should have:
- At least six months of continuous work experience in surgery within the last three years
- Relevant work experience, whether in Canada or abroad
- Qualifications that align with the NOC code 31101 – Specialists in Surgery
Applying under Express Entry is straightforward if you meet these criteria.
Why Canada is in Need of More Surgeons
The growing population of older Canadians intensifies the demand for healthcare services, especially surgical interventions. With many surgeons approaching retirement, this demand will only increase, creating a significant need for more healthcare professionals.
How to Qualify as a Surgeon
To qualify under Express Entry’s specific occupational draws, foreign-trained surgeons must:
- Have recent and relevant work experience in surgery
- Meet language proficiency and educational requirements
- Secure a valid work permit if temporarily working in Canada before applying for permanent residency
Additionally, surgeons can also explore Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), as many provinces have specific streams aimed at attracting healthcare professionals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the specialist in surgery role (NOC 31101) still targeted under Express Entry in 2025?
Yes, surgeons remain on the list of targeted occupations for Express Entry in 2025.
What is the median salary for surgeons in Canada?
The median annual salary for specialists in surgery is approximately $273,510, with earnings typically ranging from $100,694 to $557,366.
Where are job prospects for surgeons the strongest in Canada?
Opportunities are very good in Ontario, British Columbia, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island, while Alberta and Quebec also show good prospects.
What experience do I need for Express Entry as a surgeon?
Applicants require at least six months of continuous work experience in surgery within the last three years, either in Canada or abroad.
Can temporary foreign workers or international students in Canada qualify as surgeons under Express Entry?
Yes, relevant work experience gained as a temporary foreign worker or during post-graduate employment counts toward eligibility, given it is continuous and aligned with surgery within the last three years.
If you’re considering a move to Canada as a surgeon, our website, VisaJobsCanada.com, focuses specifically on Canadian jobs that offer visa sponsorship. Explore your opportunities and make your dream a reality!
What do you think?
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