On This Page You Will Find:
- Overview of the demand for medical sonographers in Canada
- NOC 2021 code and job description
- Average salaries across provinces
- Immigration pathways through Express Entry and PNPs
- Eligibility requirements and job outlook
Growing Demand for Medical Sonographers in Canada
Medical sonographers are among the most in-demand healthcare professionals in Canada in 2025. Classified under NOC 2021 code 32122, they operate ultrasound imaging equipment to capture images of patients’ internal organs, aiding in diagnosis and treatment.
Canada continues to face a shortage of qualified diagnostic imaging professionals. The federal government and provinces alike have highlighted sonography as a priority occupation in healthcare recruitment strategies, making it one of the best pathways for skilled foreign workers to immigrate.
Strong Salaries and Career Opportunities
According to Job Bank Canada, the median hourly wage for medical sonographers is $43.50, with a range between $32.00 and $56.41 per hour depending on province, experience, and seniority. That translates to annual earnings of about $67,000 to $110,000, based on a 37.5-hour work week.
Top-paying provinces for medical sonographers in 2025 include:
- British Columbia: Up to $56 per hour
- Ontario: Around $45 per hour
- Alberta: Around $47 per hour
- Manitoba and Saskatchewan: Between $40 and $44 per hour
How To Immigrate To Canada As A Medical Sonographer
Foreign-trained medical sonographers have several options to immigrate to Canada:
1. Express Entry – Category-Based Draws
Medical sonographers (NOC 32122) are part of the healthcare occupations targeted in IRCC’s Express Entry draws. Candidates must:
- Have at least six months of continuous work experience in the occupation within the last three years
- Meet language and education requirements under the Federal Skilled Worker (FSW) or Canadian Experience Class (CEC) programs
- Obtain an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) to verify foreign qualifications
2. Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
Several provinces, including Ontario, British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba, actively invite sonographers through PNP healthcare streams. A nomination from a province adds 600 points to an Express Entry profile, virtually guaranteeing an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence.
3. Work Permit Pathways
Candidates who receive a valid job offer from a Canadian employer may apply for a work permit under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) or International Mobility Program (IMP). Gaining Canadian experience often strengthens eligibility for permanent residence later.
Licensing and Accreditation Requirements
To practise in Canada, sonographers must:
- Register with Sonography Canada or a provincial regulatory body
- Pass the Canadian Clinical Skills Assessment (CCSA) and Sonography Canada credentialing exams
- Demonstrate English or French proficiency
Each province may have additional licensing requirements, particularly for positions in hospitals or diagnostic clinics.
Job Outlook for 2025 and Beyond
The shortage of imaging professionals remains a critical concern for Canada’s healthcare system. Long wait times for diagnostic services have prompted provinces to expand recruitment from abroad.
Medical sonographers have excellent job prospects in 2025 in Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, Ontario, and Saskatchewan. Demand is expected to remain strong over the next decade as the population ages and healthcare services expand.
FAQ
What is the NOC code for medical sonographers in Canada?
The NOC 2021 code for medical sonographers is 32122, which covers professionals who perform diagnostic ultrasound imaging to support medical diagnosis and treatment.
What is the average salary for a medical sonographer in Canada?
In 2025, the median hourly wage is around $43.50, ranging from $32 to $56 depending on province and experience. Annual earnings typically fall between $67,000 and $110,000.
Can foreign-trained sonographers work in Canada?
Yes. Foreign-trained sonographers can work in Canada after completing the required credential recognition and licensing through Sonography Canada or the relevant provincial body.
How can I immigrate to Canada as a sonographer?
You can immigrate through Express Entry category-based draws for healthcare workers, or via Provincial Nominee Programs that target medical imaging occupations.
Is there a high demand for medical sonographers in Canada?
Yes. The demand remains high nationwide due to ongoing healthcare staff shortages and increasing diagnostic imaging needs, especially in hospitals and community clinics.
