According to the Government of Canada, approximately 80% of eligible immigrants were citizens as of 2021. Now, in 2024, with the number of newcomers increasing every year, Canada has strengthened its commitment to developing more affordable housing to meet the demands of a growing population. Additionally, immigration policies have tightened, focusing on admitting skilled workers who can fill high-demand jobs. These needs are expected to be met by 2027. If you are aiming for permanent residency in Canada, researching high-demand careers is essential to align with the country’s workforce needs. Here are some of Canada’s top in-demand career paths:
1) Health Care
Registered Massage Therapists (RMT)
Average Salary: CAD 38.78 per hour / CAD 75,635 per year
Canada’s aging population has increased the demand for healthcare services, with many residents seeking natural methods to address health concerns. As a Registered Massage Therapist (RMT), you will assist clients in managing issues such as arthritis, stress, anxiety, and chronic pain. Although some international students may overlook this physically demanding career, it offers excellent prospects for long-term residency in Canada. Langara College provides a two-year, full-time RMT diploma program, costing CAD 19,926 per year for international students. RMTs are in high demand in Canada, where residents benefit from affordable, insurance-covered massage therapy—a cost-effective and widely utilized healthcare option.
Registered Nurse (RN)
Average Salary: CAD 41.48 per hour / CAD 80,881 per year
According to the Job Bank of Canada, from 2022 to 2031, approximately 155,400 job openings for registered nurses and registered psychiatric nurses are expected due to growth and replacement needs. Demand has surged, particularly with Canada’s aging population, leading to a 43% increase in job listings for these roles from 2022 to 2024.
2) Trades
Cooks
Average Salary: CAD 24 per hour / CAD 46,176
Cooks are highly valued across Canada, especially in bustling cities like Vancouver and Toronto. With its thriving tourism industry and love of nature, Canada has a high demand for hospitality professionals. At Vancouver Community College, you can earn a Culinary Arts Diploma in just two years, where you will learn essential skills such as food industry health and sanitation processes, nutritional and dietary needs, menu writing, and dish presentation. After graduation, cooks with a few years of experience often have opportunities to advance into senior kitchen roles or even launch their own businesses!
Construction Trades / Helpers
Average Salary: CAD 21 per hour / CAD 40,950
Construction tradespeople are the backbone of Canada’s infrastructure, working on projects that range from residential housing to large-scale industrial builds. Roles like electricians, plumbers, and general construction helpers are in high demand, offering both job stability and career growth. With the government’s commitment to affordable housing and urban development, construction workers will find abundant opportunities for work and potential pathways to residency.
For those interested in long-term residency in Canada, trades can be a fulfilling and secure career path that directly aligns with the country’s workforce needs. Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU) offers specialized training programs endorsed by SkilledTradesBC, you’ll gain hands-on skills in areas like carpentry, plumbing, and electrical, making you career-ready for the booming construction sector.
Resources: Stat Canada, Talent.com, Langara College, VCC , KPU Faculty of Trades and Technology
