On this page you will find:
- The demand for secondary school teachers in Canada
- Eligibility under Express Entry and category-based draws
- Provincial immigration pathways for teachers
- Salary information by province
- A step-by-step immigration guide
- Frequently asked questions
Why Canada Needs Secondary School Teachers
Secondary school teachers are in demand across many Canadian provinces and territories. As experienced educators retire and population growth increases, school boards face staffing challenges, especially in science, math, and French-language instruction. Shortages are particularly acute in rural and northern communities.
To help fill this gap, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has included secondary school teachers under education in its category-based selection under the Express Entry system. This targeted approach makes it easier for qualified teachers to receive Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residence.
The National Occupation Classification (NOC) code for secondary school teachers is NOC 41220. This code covers educators who teach academic or technical subjects to students in grades typically ranging from 7 to 12.
How to Immigrate to Canada as a Secondary School Teacher: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Check if You Meet the Basic Requirements
You must have at least one year of full-time experience as a secondary school teacher within the last ten years. A university degree in education or a related field is required, as well as strong English or French language skills.
Step 2: Get an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)
If your education was completed outside Canada, you must get an ECA to confirm that your degree is equal to a Canadian one.
Step 3: Take a Language Test
You must complete an approved language test such as IELTS (English) or TEF (French). A minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) score of 7 is usually required under the Federal Skilled Worker Program.
Step 4: Create an Express Entry Profile
Submit your profile online through the Express Entry system. Indicate your occupation as NOC 41220 and include your language test scores, ECA, and work history.
Step 5: Wait for a Category-Based Draw or Regular ITA
If your occupation qualifies under the teaching category, you may receive a targeted invitation even with a lower Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. If not, you could still be selected in a general draw if your CRS score is high enough.
Step 6: Submit Your Permanent Residence Application
Once invited, you have 60 days to submit your complete application with all required documents. Processing typically takes six months or less.
Step 7: Apply for Teacher Certification
After arriving in Canada, apply for teacher certification in the province or territory where you want to work. Each has its own education ministry and regulatory authority.
Other Pathways: Provincial Nominee Programs
In addition to Express Entry, several Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) actively target secondary school teachers:
- Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP): Regularly invites teachers under its Express Entry Human Capital Priorities stream
- British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP): Lists secondary teachers as a priority occupation
- Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP): Recognises teacher shortages across multiple regions
- Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP): Has issued targeted invitations to teachers in its Labour Market Priorities stream
PNPs can provide a nomination certificate worth 600 extra CRS points, greatly improving your chances in Express Entry.
How Much Do Secondary School Teachers Earn in Canada?
Salaries vary widely depending on location, seniority, and school board. The following are average salary ranges for full-time secondary school teachers:
- Ontario: $52,000 – $102,000
- British Columbia: $49,000 – $91,000
- Alberta: $55,000 – $100,000
- Quebec: $45,000 – $82,000
- Nova Scotia: $44,000 – $80,000
Salaries are often higher in major cities but come with a higher cost of living. Some rural school boards offer bonuses or relocation support to attract teachers.
Getting Certified as a Teacher in Canada
Each province and territory in Canada has its own certification process. To work legally as a secondary school teacher, you must apply for certification with the relevant regulatory body. Requirements often include:
- A recognised teaching qualification
- Language proficiency
- Recent teaching experience
- Background and reference checks
- Successful completion of certification exams or assessments
For example, teachers in Ontario must register with the Ontario College of Teachers, while those in British Columbia apply through the Teacher Regulation Branch.
FAQ
Is NOC 41220 eligible for category-based Express Entry draws?
Yes. Canada includes secondary school teachers (NOC 41220) in its category-based draws under Express Entry. This improves your chances of receiving an invitation to apply.
Do I need a job offer to immigrate as a teacher?
No. A job offer is not required for Express Entry, though it can increase your CRS score or be essential for some Provincial Nominee Programs.
Can I apply to a provincial immigration program as a teacher?
Yes. Teachers are often targeted in PNP streams, especially in Ontario, British Columbia, Alberta, and Nova Scotia. Each province sets its own priorities.
What are the average salaries for secondary teachers in Canada?
Salaries range from around $44,000 to $102,000 per year. Urban school boards often pay more, and there may be incentives for working in remote communities.
Do I need Canadian teacher certification before applying for immigration?
No. You can apply for permanent residence without being certified, but you will need certification after arrival to be eligible to teach in a public school.
