Canada is actively targeting a wide range of healthcare and social services occupations through its Express Entry system to help fill critical labour shortages. Whether you’re a physician, nurse, technician, or therapist, many roles are in high demand and eligible for category-based Express Entry draws.
This guide includes every targeted job, with National Occupation Classification (NOC) codes and estimated salary ranges. It’s a useful resource if you are exploring Canadian immigration as a healthcare professional.
On This Page, You Will Find:
- Full list of healthcare and social service jobs targeted by Express Entry
- NOC codes and job descriptions
- Estimated salary ranges in Canada
- Tips for qualifying through Express Entry as a healthcare worker
- Frequently asked questions
Canada’s Targeted Healthcare Occupations Under Express Entry
Below is the complete list of healthcare jobs targeted through Express Entry category-based selection, including each role’s NOC code and estimated salary range.
1. Registered Nurses and Registered Psychiatric Nurses
NOC 31301
Provide direct nursing care and support mental health patients.
Salary: $60,000 – $100,000
2. Nurse Practitioners
NOC 31302
Diagnose and treat illnesses independently or in collaboration with physicians.
Salary: $90,000 – $130,000
3. Licensed Practical Nurses
NOC 32101
Provide routine care under the direction of RNs or doctors.
Salary: $50,000 – $75,000
4. Nursing Coordinators and Supervisors
NOC 31300
Oversee nursing activities in hospitals or care homes.
Salary: $75,000 – $110,000
5. Physicians – General Practitioners and Family Doctors
NOC 31102
Diagnose and treat general health conditions.
Salary: $120,000 – $300,000+
6. Specialists in Clinical and Laboratory Medicine
NOC 31100
Diagnose complex conditions using lab techniques.
Salary: $180,000 – $400,000+
7. Specialists in Surgery
NOC 31101
Perform surgical procedures in hospitals.
Salary: $200,000 – $450,000+
8. Dentists
NOC 31110
Diagnose and treat oral health issues.
Salary: $100,000 – $250,000+
9. Dental Hygienists and Dental Therapists
NOC 32111
Clean teeth, educate patients, and assist dentists.
Salary: $70,000 – $100,000
10. Pharmacists
NOC 31120
Dispense medications and provide health advice.
Salary: $85,000 – $120,000
11. Pharmacy Technicians
NOC 32124
Assist in preparing and dispensing prescriptions.
Salary: $50,000 – $70,000
12. Pharmacy Technical Assistants and Pharmacy Assistants
NOC 33103
Support pharmacists in administrative and customer service tasks.
Salary: $40,000 – $55,000
13. Medical Laboratory Technologists
NOC 32120
Perform complex lab tests to aid diagnosis.
Salary: $65,000 – $90,000
14. Medical Laboratory Assistants and Related Technicians
NOC 33101
Prepare samples and assist with lab testing.
Salary: $40,000 – $60,000
15. Medical Radiation Technologists
NOC 32121
Operate imaging equipment for diagnostic purposes.
Salary: $70,000 – $95,000
16. Medical Sonographers
NOC 32122
Perform ultrasound imaging procedures.
Salary: $75,000 – $100,000
17. Respiratory Therapists, Clinical Perfusionists and Cardiopulmonary Technologists
NOC 32103
Treat patients with breathing or heart issues.
Salary: $65,000 – $90,000
18. Cardiology Technologists and Electrophysiological Diagnostic Technologists
NOC 32123
Conduct heart and brain diagnostic tests.
Salary: $55,000 – $75,000
19. Chiropractors
NOC 31201
Treat musculoskeletal disorders, especially back and neck pain.
Salary: $60,000 – $120,000
20. Physiotherapists
NOC 31202
Help patients recover movement and function.
Salary: $70,000 – $100,000
21. Occupational Therapists
NOC 31203
Support patients in regaining daily living skills.
Salary: $70,000 – $95,000
22. Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologists
NOC 31112
Diagnose and treat hearing or speech disorders.
Salary: $75,000 – $110,000
23. Dieticians and Nutritionists
NOC 31121
Provide dietary advice to improve health.
Salary: $65,000 – $90,000
24. Massage Therapists
NOC 32201
Treat clients using therapeutic massage techniques.
Salary: $45,000 – $80,000
25. Psychologists
NOC 31200
Assess and treat mental health issues.
Salary: $80,000 – $130,000
26. Optometrists
NOC 31111
Examine eyes and prescribe corrective lenses.
Salary: $90,000 – $130,000
27. Veterinarians
NOC 31103
Diagnose and treat animal health issues.
Salary: $80,000 – $120,000
28. Animal Health Technologists and Veterinary Technicians
NOC 32104
Assist vets with clinical procedures and patient care.
Salary: $40,000 – $60,000
29. Paramedical Occupations
NOC 32102
Provide emergency medical assistance in pre-hospital settings.
Salary: $60,000 – $90,000
30. Physician Assistants, Midwives, and Allied Health Professionals
NOC 31303
Provide care alongside physicians or independently, depending on the role.
Salary: $75,000 – $100,000+
31. Other Medical Technologists and Technicians
NOC 32129
Work in various medical diagnostic fields.
Salary: $50,000 – $75,000
32. Other Professional Occupations in Health Diagnosing and Treating
NOC 31209
Specialised roles not classified elsewhere.
Salary: $60,000 – $100,000+
33. Other Technical Occupations in Therapy and Assessment
NOC 32109
Support therapy and rehabilitation programs.
Salary: $50,000 – $75,000
34. Therapists in Counselling and Related Specialised Therapies
NOC 41301
Provide counselling and mental health therapy.
Salary: $60,000 – $90,000
35. Social Workers
NOC 41300
Help individuals and families manage social challenges.
Salary: $55,000 – $85,000
36. Social and Community Service Workers
NOC 42201
Support vulnerable groups in community settings.
Salary: $45,000 – $65,000
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my healthcare job is eligible for Express Entry?
If your job is listed above with a valid NOC code, it is targeted through category-based Express Entry draws. You must still meet Express Entry eligibility criteria.
Do I need a job offer to apply for Express Entry as a healthcare worker?
Not always. A job offer helps increase your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score but is not mandatory unless applying through certain Provincial Nominee Programs.
How can I improve my CRS score as a healthcare worker?
Ways to boost your score include gaining more work experience, improving language test scores, or obtaining a Canadian credential.
Can I apply for permanent residence as a nurse or doctor without Canadian work experience?
Yes, if you meet federal Express Entry criteria. However, regulated professions like nursing and medicine often require licensing in Canada.
What is the salary range for healthcare jobs in Canada?
Salaries vary widely. Nurses may earn $60,000 to $100,000, while physicians and specialists can earn over $300,000 depending on experience and location.
