Canada has become the new home for everyone. Ranked among the most visited countries in 2023, Canada has continued to welcome immigrants in the year 2024. With a strong economy to back up its population, Immigrants have access to a multitude of jobs in Canada.

Immigrants willing to migrate to Canada need to understand how the country works, most especially how to navigate through its job market.

In this article, we will shed light on everything Immigrants need to know about the job market in Canada and most importantly the top-paying skills for Immigrants.

Exploring Canada’s Job Market

Canada’s job market has seen a massive expansion in recent years and the year 2024 is set to deliver more. According to the Canadian Occupational Projection System, the net job vacancies in Canada through the decade 2022 -2031 are estimated to be around 7.7 million, while the expected net job seekers in Canada are just about 7.4 million.

Job vacancies in Canada are set to witness a massive increment in 2024 with 41% of employees set to expand their workforce in the first quarter. These stats prove that there are multiple opportunities for immigrants in Canada.

So, what are the most in-demand job positions in Canada for Immigrants? What are the top-paying skills in Canada? Let’s delve into this as you consider making the switch to Canada.

15 Top Paying Skills In Canada For Immigrants In 2024

1. Software Engineers

Technology has taken over the world and it’s not surprising that software engineers are needed across the globe. With a good working system and better pay, Software Engineer should consider moving to Canada.  Companies across the country seek skilled software engineers to develop and maintain software systems.

Undoubtedly one of the most sought-after occupations in the world, Software Engineering is one of the best jobs in Canada, as opportunities abound for both local talent and skilled immigrants in this in-demand field.

Acquiring the skill before moving to Canada will see such individuals earn an average salary of C$90,000 to C$150,000 annually based on expertise and experience.

2. Physicians or Surgeons

Physicians and Surgeons have also made their way into the list of top-paying skills In Canada For Immigrants. Immigrants possessing such skills will be able to find their place in the country.

A highly trained physician who specializes in specific areas of medicine, such as neurosurgery or cardiology, earns top salaries due to their expertise and the critical nature of their work.

The national average salary a surgeon or physician earns in Canada includes $300,000 to $500,000 annually. To pursue a career in this field, individuals must hold a medical degree and possess a valid license to practice within the country.

3. Dentist

Dental professionals diagnose and treat oral health issues. They also specialize in carrying out dental surgeries. These skills are limited and have become one of the most sought-after in Canada.

As of 2024, Dentists working in Canada earn an average salary of $150,000 to $300,000 annually based on expertise and experience.

4. Aircraft Pilots

Canada’s Aviation Industry has continued to expand its coast across the globe. Driven by this growth, demand for aircraft pilots has continued to increase.

Various opportunities are available for immigrants who are skilled in the aviation industry.  Airlines, charter companies, and flight schools are always on the lookout for a skilled pilot to take up a role in their company.

Aircraft pilots earn an average salary of C$80,000 to C$150,000 annually, a fee that tends to change based on your experience.

5. Petroleum engineers

Petroleum engineers work in the energy industry. Their primary duty is to maximize the recovery of valuable resources from subsurface reservoirs. Canada’s oil and gas industry is ranked among the best in the world and expertise is needed to keep it running.

There are various opportunities available for petroleum engineers in Canada.

The average salary of a petroleum engineer in Canada is C$120,000 to C$250,000 annually and this is based on their expertise and experience.

 6. Business Analyst

Top paying skills in Canada for immigrants also include Business Analyst, as a business analyst, you get the chance to work with notable companies in Canada.

The job description of a business analyst includes budgeting and financing, planning and monitoring, variance analysis, and creating opportunities for businesses.

To get an opportunity to work as a business analyst in Canada, you need a Bachelor’s degree, A master’s degree will prove an added advantage.

The average salary  of a business analyst in Canada is $73,000 to C$150,000 annually or $35.41 per hour

7. Recruitment Specialist

Recruitment specialists are tasked with helping a company secure the right candidate for a specific position. With various job demands available in Canada, Recruitment specialists are adored and well-paid to do their jobs.

With an average salary of $52,424 per year or $25.20 per hour, it’s not surprising that Recruitment Specialist is among the top paying skills in Canada for immigrants.

8. Nurse

With a resounding healthcare system in place, Canada has become a new home for Nurses especially Immigrants who are skilled in that area. Qualified nurses are allowed to carry out their duties in Canada and they are well paid for this.

A nurse in Canada earns at least  $72,874 per year or $37.37 per hour. An Internationally Registered Nurse or IEN will need to complete an application with the National Nursing Assessment Service before they are allowed to work in Canada.

9. Lawyers

Legal professionals specializing in various areas of law. They provide expert advice, represent clients, and ensure legal compliance. There are various opportunities for Lawyers in Canada.

Private law firms, corporate legal departments, government agencies, and non-profit organizations are always on the lookout for lawyers to fill up a role.

Working as a legal professional in Canada comes with good pay. The average salary you could expect to earn ranges between C$80,000 – C$150,000.

10. IT Project Manager

Technology has continued to take its place in our day-to-day activities. With Canada following suit in the advancement of technology, IT project managers have become a wanted commodity in the country.

IT project managers are tasked with developing and management of information technology projects, including their cost, timeline, and scope.

You need to get the necessary certifications to be fit for this role. The average salary of an IT project manager is $95,495 per year or $45.91 per hour.

11. Driver

As odd as it might sound, Driver is also among the top-paying skills for immigrants in Canada. The main responsibility of a driver is to safely transport passengers or cargo from one point to another.

Requirements to become a truck driver in Canada vary on the province and workplace, however, a certified driver’s license is needed.

12. Electrician

Are you a skilled electrician? If yes, Canada is the place to be. Electricians are tasked with installing and repairing electrical wiring, ensuring piping complies with electrical codes, testing electrical systems, and many others.

Canada has various programs for skilled electricians with various job opportunities available.  Electrician in Canada earns an Average Salary of $68,250 per year and $35 per hour.

13.     Hair Stylists

Top paying skills in Canada for immigrants also include Hair Stylist. With the fashion trend in Canada growing alongside the rest of the world, hair stylists are needed in various fashion industries.

Hair stylists are also needed in the community. They cut, style hair, and perform related services. They are also responsible for cleaning their workstations and sterilizing their equipment.

The yearly salary of a hairstylist or hairdresser in Canada is $48,387

14. Welder

Top paying skills in Canada for immigrants also include welding. Welders main task is to assemble pieces of metal or repair damage in metal components.

The requirement for this role is the completion of secondary school and a three-year apprenticeship program. Three years of work experience is also needed.

The average Salary of a welder working in Canada is $63,210 per year or $30.39 per hour.

15. Veterinarian

Top paying skills in Canada for immigrants also included veterinarians. Working as a vet is one of the best jobs for immigrants in Canada.

Veterinarians are tasked with assessing the health conditions of animals, treating wounds, performing surgeries, and prescribing medication amongst others.

The basic requirement needed to work as a vet in Canada is completing at least two years of pre-vet university studies or a college program in health sciences and a five-year degree in vet med.

The average Salary of a vet in Canada is $90,574 per year or $46.45 per hour.

Frequently Asked Question

What  Are The Top Paying Skills In Canada For Immigrants

Various skills can earn an immigrant good cash in Canada. These skills include being a software engineer, a dentist, a driver, a barber, or an architect.

How can an Immigrant secure a Job in Canada?

As an immigrant living in Canada, you can secure a job by following the below steps:

1. Search and apply for jobs

Browse online to apply for vacant jobs. Ensure you meet all requirements as all jobs have their specific role and tasks.

2. Attend Job Fairs

Attending Job fairs is another means of getting a job in Canada.

3. Work as a volunteer

In a bid to get the experience needed, you should work as a volunteer. This will also help you practice your French or English, and network with Canadians.

4. Network

Network with those around you. They might be a source for your next job.

Conclusion

Canada has opened its door to immigrants seeking a greener pasture and a better life. Living in Canada is peaceful and immigrants are allowed to make a living.

Various skills are needed to earn a living in Canada and Immigrants can take advantage of this. These skills include driving, hairdressing, welding, dentistry, software engineering, and so on.