Top In-Demand Jobs in Canada for Immigrants (2026 Updated List)

Canada continues to face skill shortages across multiple industries, making it one of the best countries for immigrants seeking employment. If you are planning to move in 2026, knowing the most in-demand jobs in Canada for immigrants can significantly increase your chances of securing a job and permanent residency.

This updated guide highlights the high-demand occupations, salary ranges, and eligibility requirements for foreign workers in Canada.

Why Canada Has High Demand for Immigrant Workers

Canada’s aging population, low birth rate, and economic growth have created long-term labour shortages. As a result:

• Employers actively hire foreign skilled workers
• Immigration programs prioritize high-demand occupations
• Many jobs qualify for Express Entry and PNP programs

If you are new, start with our complete guide: How to Get a Job in Canada as a Foreigner (2026 Step-by-Step Guide)

Top In-Demand Jobs in Canada for Immigrants (2026)

Software Developers & IT Professionals

NOC / TEER: TEER 1
Average Salary: CAD 75,000 – 120,000/year

Canada’s tech sector is booming, especially in Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal.

High-demand roles:

• Software developers
• Data analysts & data scientists
• Cybersecurity specialists
• Cloud engineers

✔ Often LMIA-exempt
✔ Strong Express Entry CRS boost

Healthcare Professionals

NOC / TEER: TEER 1–2
Average Salary: CAD 65,000 – 110,000/year

Healthcare is one of the most critical in-demand sectors.

Popular roles:

• Registered nurses
• Physicians & specialists
• Personal support workers (PSW)
• Medical laboratory technologists

⚠️ Licensing and credential recognition required.

Skilled Trades Workers

NOC / TEER: TEER 2–3
Average Salary: CAD 55,000 – 90,000/year

Canada urgently needs skilled trades workers.

Examples:

• Electricians
• Plumbers
• Welders
• HVAC technicians

✔ Easier PR through Provincial Nominee Programs
✔ Less competition than white-collar jobs

Engineers

NOC / TEER: TEER 1
Average Salary: CAD 70,000 – 110,000/year

Engineering professionals remain in high demand.

Key fields:

• Civil engineering
• Mechanical engineering
• Electrical engineering
• Industrial engineering

📌 Provincial licensing may be required after arrival.

Finance & Business Professionals

NOC / TEER: TEER 1
Average Salary: CAD 60,000 – 100,000/year

Businesses across Canada need skilled professionals in:

• Accounting
• Financial analysis
• Business administration
• Supply chain management

✔ Strong demand in Toronto & Calgary

Education & Early Childhood Educators

NOC / TEER: TEER 1–2
Average Salary: CAD 45,000 – 75,000/year

With population growth, Canada needs:

• Early childhood educators
• Secondary school teachers
• Teaching assistants

⚠️ Provincial certification may be required.

Truck Drivers & Logistics Workers

NOC / TEER: TEER 3
Average Salary: CAD 55,000 – 80,000/year

Logistics and transportation remain critical.

✔ High demand across provinces
✔ Easier job offers with LMIA

Best Provinces for Immigrants (Job Demand)

Different provinces focus on different occupations:

• Ontario: IT, finance, healthcare
• British Columbia: Tech, construction, trades
• Alberta: Engineering, logistics, trades
• Manitoba & Saskatchewan: Healthcare, trucking, agriculture
• Atlantic Canada: Healthcare, education, skilled trades

How These Jobs Help You Get PR Faster

Most in-demand jobs qualify for:

• Express Entry (FSWP & CEC)
  
• Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP)
  
• Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)

✔ Some PNPs target specific occupations directly
✔ Job offer = higher CRS score

Can You Get These Jobs Without Canadian Experience?

Yes—especially if you:

• Have international experience
• Meet language requirements
• Apply for entry-level or niche roles

👉 Read next: High Paying Jobs in Canada Without Canadian Experience

Education as a Strategic Pathway

Many immigrants choose to study first and work later.

Best job-oriented fields:

• IT & Computer Science
• Healthcare programs
• Engineering
• Business analytics
• Skilled trades

👉 Full guide: Best Courses to Study in Canada for Getting a Job After Graduation

Final Thoughts

Canada’s job market in 2026 strongly favors skilled immigrants. By targeting in-demand occupations, choosing the right province, and aligning your skills with Canada’s labour needs, you can greatly improve your chances of securing both a job and permanent residency.