On This Page You Will Find:
- How dentists can immigrate to Canada in 2025
- Canada’s shortage of dentists and job outlook
- Express Entry occupation-specific draws for dentists
- Salary expectations and job demand across provinces
- Steps to qualify for permanent residence
Are you a skilled dentist looking to immigrate to Canada? With increasing demand for professionals in this field, Canada offers excellent immigration opportunities. Submit your credentials today.
Canada’s Demand for Dentists in 2025
The IRCC has ongoing efforts to prioritize in-demand professions, which have been a focus since 2023 through occupation-specific Express Entry draws.
Dentists have a strong risk of labour shortage over the period of 2024-2033 at the national level.
Dentists Qualify for Occupation-Specific Express Entry Draws
Under National Occupational Classification NOC 31110, dentists are eligible for occupation-specific Express Entry draws. This means candidates with at least six months of continuous work experience in the past three years—either in Canada or abroad—can apply without requiring a job offer.
Eligible roles include:
- General practice dentist
- Pediatric dentist
- Pedodontist
- Public health dentist
These roles align with other healthcare professions, offering a variety of career pathways for immigrants.
Strong Job Demand and Salary Outlook for Dentists in Canada
According to Job Bank Canada, the job outlook for dentists is very good in 8 out of 13 provinces and territories in Canada.
According to the 2021 Census by Statistics Canada, the median annual wage for dentists in Canada is $110,000, with earnings typically ranging from $32,360 to $228,000 per year. Since many dentists are self-employed, wages are reported annually to better reflect their earnings. Based on a standard 37.5-hour workweek, income can reach up to $228,000 per year.
Given the rising need for dental services, dentists can expect stable employment and career growth opportunities in Canada
How to Immigrate to Canada as a Dentist in 2025
Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility
To qualify for Express Entry, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- At least six months of continuous work experience as a dentist in the past three years
- Language proficiency in English or French at the required Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level
- Educational credentials (foreign degrees may require an Educational Credential Assessment)
- Proof of settlement funds if applying through the Federal Skilled Worker Program
Step 2: Create an Express Entry Profile
Candidates must submit an Express Entry profile and select NOC 31110 as their occupation. If eligible, they may be invited in an occupation-specific draw.
Step 3: Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA)
Candidates selected in an occupation-specific draw will receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence.
Step 4: Submit a Complete Application
Once an ITA is received, candidates must submit all required documents within 60 days, including:
- Proof of work experience
- Language test results
- Educational credential verification
- Medical and police clearance certificates
Express Entry Targeted Draws for Dentists: What You Need to Know
Canada’s Express Entry system consists of three main immigration pathways:
- Federal Skilled Worker (FSW) Program
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
- Federal Skilled Trades (FST) Program
Occupation-specific draws focus on high-demand professions. These draws select candidates based on their job title rather than just their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, increasing the chances of receiving an ITA.
Benefits of occupation-specific draws:
- No job offer required for eligibility
- Higher selection chances compared to general draws
- Additional immigration options through Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP)
Why Choose Canada for Your Dental Career?
- The demand for dentists continues to rise due to population growth.
- Express Entry occupation-specific draws provide a clear immigration pathway.
- Salaries are competitive, and professionals can access universal healthcare and social benefits.
- Professional licensing bodies and networks support newcomer dentists in career development.
Start Your Journey to Canada Today
If you are a qualified dentist, now is the time to apply for Express Entry and build your future in Canada.
FAQ
Do I need a job offer to immigrate as a dentist?
No, a job offer is not required for occupation-specific Express Entry draws. You can qualify with at least six months of continuous work experience in the past three years.
How much do dentists earn in Canada?
The median annual wage is $110,000, with a range from $32,360 to $228,000 per year. Annual salaries can reach up to $228,000, depending on experience and location.
What are the language requirements for Express Entry?
You must meet Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level 7 or higher in English or French, depending on your immigration pathway.
Can I apply if I have experience outside of Canada?
Yes, dental experience from abroad counts if it meets NOC 31110 criteria and includes at least six months of continuous work in the past three years.
Can I apply through a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)?
Yes, many provinces have PNP streams for dentists, providing an additional pathway to permanent residency.
