On This Page, You Will Find:
- A breakdown of March 2025 job vacancy trends in Canada
- Which sectors saw the biggest changes in job demand
- Provincial job vacancy rates and regional highlights
- Insights on where job opportunities are growing
- What these trends mean for prospective immigrants
Canada’s labour market continues to show signs of change, with job vacancies holding steady in March 2025 at 529,700. This marks the seventh straight month without major fluctuations. However, job vacancies have fallen by 72,800 compared to March 2024, representing a 12.1% year-over-year drop.
While some sectors and provinces show growth, others are tightening. If you are planning to immigrate to Canada, understanding which industries and regions are hiring can help guide your decisions.
Overall Trends: Fewer Vacancies, More Job Seekers
The national job vacancy rate in March was 3.0%, a slight rise from February (2.9%), but lower than the 3.4% recorded in March 2024. The ratio of unemployed persons to vacancies also grew, with 2.9 unemployed individuals for every available job. This shift was caused by fewer job openings and a rise in unemployment over the past year.
Sectors With Falling Demand
Eleven out of twenty job sectors saw a decline in vacancies year over year. The largest drops occurred in:
- Health care and social assistance (–17,620)
- Retail trade (–11,520)
- Transportation and warehousing (–8,240)
Other sectors with notable decreases include manufacturing, education, accommodation and food services, and construction. While health care remains a large employer, its demand has slowed compared to previous years.
Sectors With Rising Demand
Only two sectors posted strong year-over-year growth:
- Finance and insurance (+2,715)
- Public administration (+1,450)
In March alone, job vacancies also rose in transportation and warehousing (+3,300), utilities (+800), and management of companies (+300). These may offer opportunities for skilled newcomers with the right experience.
Regional Trends: Where Jobs Are Growing
Provincial job market trends varied:
- Alberta recorded the largest gain in job vacancies in March, with 7,500 new openings.
- Manitoba saw a decline of 3,700 vacancies.
- British Columbia had the highest job vacancy rate at 3.5%, followed by Alberta at 3.2%.
- Ontario had the lowest vacancy rate at 2.7%.
Compared to a year ago, job vacancy rates declined in seven provinces. Saskatchewan (–0.8 percentage points) and Manitoba (–0.6) saw the largest drops. Newfoundland and Labrador was the only province where vacancy rates rose, increasing from 2.4% to 3.1%.
What This Means for Immigrants
If you’re considering immigrating to Canada, focus on provinces and sectors with stronger demand. Finance, insurance, public administration, and transportation are showing resilience, while Alberta, British Columbia, and Newfoundland and Labrador currently offer better hiring prospects.
Key Tips for Immigrants Seeking a Job in Canada
Navigating the Canadian job market as a newcomer can be challenging, especially during periods of shifting vacancy trends. Here are some practical tips to help you improve your chances of finding employment:
1. Focus on In-Demand Sectors
Target sectors that are currently seeing job growth, such as finance, insurance, public administration, and transportation. Avoid sectors with sharp declines unless you have highly specialised skills.
2. Consider Regional Opportunities
Look beyond major cities. Provinces like Alberta, Newfoundland and Labrador, and British Columbia currently show higher job vacancy rates, which may lead to better chances of employment.
3. Tailor Your Resume to Canadian Standards
Canadian employers expect clear, concise resumes. Focus on your achievements, use reverse chronological order, and include a brief cover letter that shows why you’re a good fit for the job.
4. Network Actively
Build connections through local immigrant support centres, job fairs, and online platforms like LinkedIn. Many jobs in Canada are filled through referrals and word-of-mouth.
5. Improve Language Skills
Strong English or French language skills significantly improve your employability. Consider taking language courses or certification exams like IELTS or TEF to boost your credentials.
6. Get Canadian Credentials Recognised
If you’re in a regulated profession, such as healthcare, engineering, or accounting, start the process of credential recognition as early as possible. This may involve exams or bridging programs.
7. Use Government and Community Services
Take advantage of free employment services for newcomers offered by both the federal government and local agencies. These include job search workshops, resume writing help, and interview preparation.
By taking a strategic and informed approach, you can increase your chances of securing meaningful employment and building a strong future in Canada.
FAQ
Which job sectors in Canada saw the biggest drop in vacancies?
Health care, retail trade, and transportation experienced the largest year-over-year declines. Health care fell by over 17,000 job postings, indicating a cooling trend.
Are any job sectors seeing increased demand in 2025?
Yes, finance and insurance (+13.7%) and public administration (+11.9%) had more job openings in March compared to last year. These may offer better opportunities for newcomers.
Which provinces have the highest job vacancy rates?
As of March 2025, British Columbia (3.5%) and Alberta (3.2%) have the highest job vacancy rates. These provinces may be more favourable for job-seeking immigrants.
Where are job vacancy rates decreasing the most?
Saskatchewan and Manitoba saw the biggest declines in job vacancy rates, suggesting tougher competition or fewer openings in those areas.
What is the current national job vacancy rate in Canada?
The job vacancy rate across Canada stood at 3.0% in March 2025. This is slightly higher than February but lower than the 3.4% recorded a year ago.
