Colin R. Singer

Top Jobs in Canada’s Health Sector That Attract Temporary Foreign Workers   Most common health care jobs for TFWs in Canada
NOC codes and average salary estimates
Where these roles are most in demand
Immigration pathways linked to each occupation
How to qualify and apply as a TFW in health care
Canada’s Health Sector Needs Foreign Workers More Than Ever  Canada is experiencing long-term shortages in its health care workforce. Hospitals, long-term care homes, and home support services are finding it increasingly difficult to recruit and retain staff. To fill the gaps, employers across the country are turning to  temporary foreign workers   (TFWs) , who now play a growing role in keeping the system running.
TFWs are especially common in direct care and support positions that do not require full medical licensing in Canada. These roles are essential and often provide a clear path toward permanent residency. The most common jobs include nurse aides, orderlies, caregivers, and registered nurses. Below, we explore these top occupations in more detail, including job duties, immigration pathways, and estimated wages.
1. Nurse Aides, Orderlies and Patient Service Associates (NOC 33102)   Why It Attracts TFWs:
This role is highly in demand across Canada, especially in nursing homes and home care. Employers frequently hire through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program or recruit international graduates from local colleges.
National average:  $42,000 – $52,000 per year
Higher wages in Northern communities and urban hospitals
Immigration Pathways:
Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
Canadian Experience Class (CEC) for those with work experience
2. Home Support Workers, Caregivers and Related Occupations (NOC 44101)   Job Overview:
These workers provide personal care and companionship to seniors, people with disabilities, or patients recovering y assist with cooking, hygiene, and sometimes light medical tasks.
Why It Attracts TFWs:
This is a common entry-level role that offers LMIA-supported work permits. It has historically been the backbone of caregiver immigration pathways, especially for Filipinos and Indian nationals.
National average:  $35,000 – $45,000 per year
Often includes free room and board if living with employer
Immigration Pathways:
Home Child Care Provider Pilot (HCCPP)
PNP streams targeting caregivers
Canadian Experience Class (if minimum experience met)
3. Registered Nurses and Registered Psychiatric Nurses (NOC 31301)   Job Overview:
Registered nurses (RNs) provide medical care in hospitals, clinics, and residential care settings. They assess patients, administer medication, and coordinate treatment plans. Psychiatric nurses focus on mental health care.
Why It Attracts TFWs: RNs are in critically short supply across Canada. Provinces like Ontario, British Columbia, and Nova Scotia regularly recruit internationally trained nurses. Bridging programs help foreign-licensed RNs meet Canadian standards.
National average:  $70,000 – $90,000 per year
In northern and remote areas:  $100,000+
Immigration Pathways:
Express Entry (Federal Skilled Worker Program or Canadian Experience Class)
PNP streams prioritising health care occupations
Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP) for refugees with health training
4. Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) (NOC 32101)   Job Overview:
Licensed Practical Nurses work under the supervision of registered nurses and doctors. They monitor patients, give medication, and assist in treatment plans in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care homes.
Why It Attracts TFWs:
It is a recognised health occupation with faster credential recognition than RN roles. LPN positions are frequently used in PNP job offers and TFW applications.
National average:  $55,000 – $65,000 per year
Immigration Pathways:
Provincial Nominee Programs (especially in Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Atlantic Canada)
Express Entry if language and education criteria are met
Employer-driven LMIA work permits
5. Medical Laboratory Technologists and Assistants (NOC 32120, 33101)   Job Overview:
Medical Laboratory Technologists perform tests on blood, tissue, and body fluids to help diagnose medical conditions.…