Top 20 In-Demand Jobs in Canada for Foreign Workers in 2025

Discover the top 20 in-demand jobs in Canada for foreign workers in 2025, including salaries, requirements, and pathways for securing employment as an international applicant.

Introduction

Canada continues to face significant labour shortages across multiple sectors, creating strong opportunities for foreign workers seeking stable employment and long-term prospects. As the population ages and industries expand, employers are increasingly hiring internationally to fill essential roles. For newcomers, understanding which occupations are in highest demand is the first step toward securing a Canadian work permit or permanent residency.

This article outlines the top 20 most in-demand jobs in Canada for foreign workers in 2025, based on data from provincial labour outlooks, the Government of Canada Job Bank, and employer hiring trends nationwide.

1. Registered Nurses (RN)

Canada’s healthcare shortages remain one of the most critical. Hospitals, long-term care homes, and clinics are heavily recruiting internationally.

Average salary: CAD $70,000–$95,000
Requirements: Nursing degree + licensing through provincial nursing bodies
Pathways: Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP), LMIA-supported job offers

2. Truck Drivers

Long-haul trucking remains one of the easiest pathways for foreign workers due to national shortages.

Salary: CAD $55,000–$75,000
Requirements: Class 1/1A license (can be obtained in Canada)
Pathways: LMIA, Provincial priorities (Saskatchewan, Manitoba, New Brunswick)

3. Early Childhood Educators (ECE)

Childcare workers are needed due to Canada’s affordable childcare program rollout.

Salary: CAD $35,000–$52,000
Pathways: PNP streams in BC, Nova Scotia, PEI, and Ontario

4. Software Developers & IT Professionals

Tech talent remains in demand for both startups and enterprise organizations.

Salary: CAD $80,000–$130,000
Specialties: Full-stack developers, cloud computing, AI, cybersecurity
Pathways: Global Talent Stream (fast 2-week processing)

5. Construction Workers & Skilled Trades

Carpenters, welders, electricians, and plumbers are heavily needed for residential and commercial development.

Salary: CAD $50,000–$85,000
Pathways: LMIA, PNPs, Apprenticeship programs

6. Caregivers & Personal Support Workers (PSW)

Elderly care is one of the fastest-growing sectors.

Salary: CAD $30,000–$45,000
Pathways: Home Child Care Provider Pilot, Home Support Worker Pilot

7. Food Service Supervisors & Restaurant Staff

Restaurants, fast-food chains, and hotels are hiring internationally to address shortages.

Salary: CAD $32,000–$48,000
Pathways: LMIA, Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)

8. Farm Workers & Agricultural Labourers

Seasonal agricultural work continues to rely heavily on foreign labour.

Salary: CAD $28,000–$40,000
Pathways: Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP)

9. Industrial Mechanics & Millwrights

Manufacturing, mining, and energy companies are facing significant shortages.

Salary: CAD $60,000–$90,000
Pathways: LMIA, Express Entry (Skilled Trades)

10. Accountants & Financial Auditors

Demand is strong in large firms, banks, and public sector organizations.

Salary: CAD $60,000–$90,000
Requirements: CPA or equivalent experience

11. Retail Supervisors

Retail chains across Canada require foreign workers for supervisory roles.

Salary: CAD $35,000–$50,000
Pathways: Provincial retail supervisor streams

12. Heavy Equipment Operators

Mining, construction, and forestry rely heavily on experienced operators.

Salary: CAD $50,000–$85,000

13. Welders

Welders remain among the highest-demand skilled trades.

Salary: CAD $45,000–$75,000
Pathways: LMIA + Skilled Trades immigration

14. Pharmacists

Pharmacists remain sought after in both community and clinical settings.

Salary: CAD $90,000–$120,000
Requirements: Licensing by provincial pharmacy colleges

15. Business Analysts & Project Managers

Organizations across Canada require business professionals to manage operations and digital transformation.

Salary: CAD $70,000–$110,000

16. Cleaners & Housekeepers

Hotels, hospitals, and commercial cleaning companies are hiring foreign labour.

Salary: CAD $28,000–$38,000
Pathways: LMIA

17. Auto Mechanics

Dealerships and repair shops face persistent shortages.

Salary: CAD $45,000–$70,000
Pathways: Skilled Trades immigration

18. Civil Engineers

Infrastructure development continues nationwide.

Salary: CAD $75,000–$120,000
Pathways: Express Entry (FSWP), PNP

19. Warehouse Workers & Material Handlers

Logistics, e-commerce, and distribution centers are expanding rapidly.

Salary: CAD $32,000–$45,000
Pathways: LMIA + AIP

20. Hospitality Workers

Hotels and tourism businesses rely heavily on foreign workers.

Salary: CAD $30,000–$45,000
Roles: Front desk staff, housekeeping supervisors, cooks, bartenders

Conclusion

Canada’s labour market continues to offer strong opportunities for international applicants seeking stable employment and long-term immigration pathways. Whether skilled, semi-skilled, or entry-level, foreign workers can find jobs in sectors facing critical shortages nationwide. By targeting the most in-demand roles, preparing Canadian-style applications, and choosing the right immigration pathway, newcomers can significantly improve their chances of securing a job offer and building a successful career in Canada.