Health professionals in Canada: a complete guide to the labor market in 2025
Canada has become one of the most desirable destinations for health professionals seeking international opportunities. With a robust health system and an aging population, the North American country offers a dynamic labor market full of possibilities for doctors, nurses, physiotherapists and several other specialists in the field. For many Brazilians, the most strategic path has been the Public College program in Canada, which offers recognized training and facilitates entry into the local labor market. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore how this market works, what are the necessary requirements, and how you can prepare to start your career in the Canadian healthcare system.
The healthcare labor market in Canada: current overview
The Canadian healthcare sector is constantly expanding and has an increasing demand for qualified professionals. This reality is shaped by several factors that make the country extremely attractive for those seeking international professional development.
The growing demand for health professionals
The aging of the Canadian population is one of the main factors driving the demand for health services in the country. According to the Canadian Occupational Projection System (COPS), the health area is projected to become the largest employer in the country by 2031, reaching an impressive 2.5 million professionals and surpassing traditionally larger sectors such as retail.
In addition, recent changes in federal government health policy, such as the inclusion of dental coverage for more Canadians, are significantly increasing the need for specialized professionals in various areas.
Be Easy tip: Western Canadian provinces, such as British Columbia and Alberta, tend to offer more simplified recognition processes for certain medical specialties, making them an excellent gateway for international professionals.
Areas with the greatest opportunities
According to data from the Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI), there are specific areas with a critical shortage of professionals:
- Long-term care: With life expectancy increasing, the demand for professionals specialized in geriatrics grows exponentially
- Mental health: A rapidly expanding area, especially after the pandemic
- Community Services: Home care and care in remote communities
- Family Medicine: Family doctors are essential in the Canadian system and are in short supply in several provinces
The regions farthest from large urban centers offer special incentive programs, including bonuses and installation assistance, aimed at attracting qualified professionals to these areas.
Essential requirements for working in healthcare in Canada
To act as a health professional in Canada, it is necessary to comply with a series of legal and professional requirements. The process can be complex, but with proper planning, it becomes perfectly achievable.
Validation of credentials and certifications
Recognition of your qualifications is the first fundamental step in working in the Canadian healthcare system. This process includes:
- Diploma validation: Your degree needs to be evaluated by accredited organizations such as World Education Services (WES)
- Work permit: Obtaining authorization issued by the Department of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)
- Professional registration: Registration with provincial regulatory councils specific to your profession
It should be noted that the validation process varies depending on the province and specialty. Some areas, such as nursing and physical therapy, have more direct processes compared to specialized medicine.
Main professions and their regulatory bodies
Each healthcare profession has its own regulatory body in Canada. Below are the 10 main professions and their respective advice:
- Doctor: College of Physicians and Surgeons (specific to each province)
- Dentist: Provincial Dental Regulatory Authorities
- Registered Nurse: Canadian Nurses Association and provincial councils
- Physical Therapist: Canadian Alliance of Physiotherapy Regulators
- Pharmacist: National Association of Pharmacy Regulatory Authorities
- Clinical Psychologist: Canadian Psychological Association
- Radiology Technologist: Canadian Association of Medical Radiation Technologists
- Medical Laboratory Technician: Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon: Royal College of Dentists of Canada
- Occupational Therapist: Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists
Each board has specific requirements that must be met before being able to practice the profession legally in the country.
Language proficiency: essential requirement
Effective communication is essential in healthcare, so proficiency in one of Canada's official languages is a non-negotiable requirement. Depending on the province, you'll need to prove fluency in:
- English: Generally through IELTS or CELPIP exams, with specific minimum scores for health professionals (normally higher than for other professions)
- French: Mainly for Quebec, through the TEF test (Test d'Évaluation de Français)
For doctors, for example, the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario requires a minimum score of 7.0 on each component of the IELTS in the academic version.
Salary and career prospects
Canada offers attractive compensation for health professionals, especially when compared to the Brazilian scenario. Salaries vary based on specialty, experience, and location.
Salary ranges by specialty
According to Canadian Job Bank data updated for 2025, these are the average annual salaries for the main health professions:
In addition to salaries, healthcare professionals in Canada generally receive complementary benefits such as:
- Extensive health plans
- Pension funds
- Paid leave
- Professional Development Aid
- Life and Disability Insurance
Professional development and specialization
The Canadian system values continuing education and offers several opportunities for professional growth:
- Specialization and Subspecialization Programs
- Research Scholarships
- International conferences and workshops
- Exchanges with other health institutions
Many hospitals and institutions offer specific programs for the integration of international professionals, facilitating the transition and adaptation to the Canadian health system.
Migratory paths for health professionals
There are several ways to immigrate to Canada as a healthcare professional. Key programs include:
- Express Entry: Point system that prioritizes qualified professionals
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP): Province-specific programs, many with streams dedicated to health professionals
- Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot: Focused on attracting professionals to smaller communities
- Atlantic Immigration Program: Directed to the Atlantic provinces
Many provinces have specific programs for health professionals, offering simplified immigration processes to meet local demand.
Challenges and practical tips for the process
The path to working in the Canadian healthcare system may present challenges, but with the right guidance, it is possible to overcome them:
- Start early: The validation process can take from 1 to 3 years, depending on the specialty
- Improve your English/French: Invest in specific courses for medical terminology
- Connect with associations: Many professional associations offer mentoring for international professionals
- Consider starting in rural areas: They are more receptive to foreign professionals and offer additional benefits
- Prepare yourself financially: Validation and certification costs can be significant
Be Easy
Na Be Easy, we understand the specific challenges that health professionals face when seeking international opportunities. Our Public College program in Canada offers a strategic path to enter the Canadian market, supplementing your education with locally recognized diplomas. Count on our experience and personalized support to turn your dream of an international career in health into reality. Contact our expert advisors and discover the most suitable path for your professional profile!
