On This Page You Will Find
- Overview of occupational therapy jobs in Canada
- NOC 2021 code and salary information
- Immigration options through Express Entry
- Provincial Nominee Program pathways
- Steps to get licensed as an occupational therapist in Canada
- Frequently asked questions
Overview: Strong Demand for Occupational Therapists in Canada
Canada continues to face a national shortage of occupational therapists as the population ages and healthcare needs expand. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) lists occupational therapy among the priority healthcare occupations targeted in category-based Express Entry draws.
According to the Canadian Occupational Projection System (COPS), there will be more job openings for occupational therapists than available workers between 2022 and 2031. Hospitals, rehabilitation centres, and community clinics across Canada are actively recruiting internationally trained professionals to fill vacancies.
NOC 2021 Code and Job Description
Occupational therapists are classified under the National Occupational Classification (NOC) 2021 system with the code 31203. They help individuals affected by illness, injury, disability, or aging to regain independence and improve their ability to perform daily activities at work, home, and in the community.
Typical duties include:
- Assessing clients’ physical, emotional, and cognitive abilities
- Developing and implementing personalized treatment plans
- Recommending adaptive equipment or modifications
- Supporting return-to-work or independent living goals
Salaries and Job Prospects
Occupational therapists enjoy competitive salaries across Canada. According to Job Bank data for 2025:
- Median wage: $43.50 per hour
- High wage: Up to $52 per hour
- Annual salary range: $75,000 to $90,000, depending on experience and location
Provinces such as Ontario, British Columbia, Alberta, and Nova Scotia report particularly strong demand. The job outlook is rated good to very good in nearly every province.
Express Entry Options for Occupational Therapists
Occupational therapists are eligible under Canada’s category-based Express Entry draws for healthcare occupations.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify, candidates must:
- Have at least six months of continuous paid work experience in NOC 31203 within the last three years (in Canada or abroad)
- Meet the language requirement (minimum CLB 7 for the Federal Skilled Worker Program)
- Obtain an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) for foreign degrees
- Demonstrate sufficient settlement funds (unless working in Canada)
Once eligible, candidates can enter the Express Entry pool under one of three programs:
- Federal Skilled Worker (FSW) – for those with overseas experience
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC) – for those with recent Canadian work experience
- Federal Skilled Trades (FST) – not applicable to this occupation but included in Express Entry management
IRCC periodically conducts draws targeting healthcare workers. Those with experience as occupational therapists have received invitations for permanent residence under this category.
Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) Pathways
Many provinces operate dedicated immigration streams for healthcare professionals, including occupational therapists. Examples include:
- Ontario Health Occupations Stream (OINP) – invites healthcare workers with job offers in Ontario.
- British Columbia Health Authority Pathway – prioritises health professionals working in the provincial healthcare system.
- Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) – accepts applicants in priority healthcare sectors.
- Nova Scotia Labour Market Priorities Stream – often targets healthcare occupations through Express Entry.
- Manitoba and Saskatchewan Health Occupations Streams – recruit through employer-supported nominations.
Candidates with a provincial nomination receive an additional 600 CRS points, virtually guaranteeing an invitation for permanent residence through Express Entry.
Licensing Requirements
Occupational therapists must be licensed by a provincial or territorial regulatory authority to practise in Canada. The process typically involves:
- Submitting an application to the Association of Canadian Occupational Therapy Regulatory Organizations (ACOTRO) for credentialing.
- Passing the National Occupational Therapy Certification Examination (NOTCE).
- Registering with the provincial college (for example, the College of Occupational Therapists of Ontario).
Internationally trained therapists may complete bridging or supervised practice programs depending on the province.
Steps to Immigrate as an Occupational Therapist
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Check Eligibility
Confirm your occupation is listed under NOC 31203 and gather at least six months of recent experience.
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Obtain an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)
Required for all foreign degrees.
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Take a Language Test
IELTS or CELPIP for English, TEF or TCF for French.
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Create an Express Entry Profile
Select the Federal Skilled Worker or Canadian Experience Class.
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Apply for a Provincial Nomination (optional)
Boost your CRS score.
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Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA)
Submit your permanent residence application within 60 days.
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Prepare for Licensing
Apply to ACOTRO and register for the NOTCE exam.
Job Opportunities in Canada
Occupational therapists work in:
- Hospitals and rehabilitation centres
- Schools and community clinics
- Long-term care facilities
- Private practices and insurance agencies
Employers across Canada continue to recruit internationally trained professionals to fill growing demand, particularly in Ontario, British Columbia, Alberta, and the Atlantic provinces.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is occupational therapy in demand in Canada?
Yes. Occupational therapists are in high demand across Canada. The healthcare sector continues to experience a shortage, especially in hospitals, schools, and community care settings. IRCC actively targets this occupation in Express Entry draws.
What is the NOC code for occupational therapists in Canada?
Under the NOC 2021 classification system, occupational therapists fall under code 31203. This code is part of the healthcare occupation category targeted through Express Entry draws.
How much can occupational therapists earn in Canada?
The median wage is around $43.50 per hour, with experienced professionals earning up to $52 per hour. Annual salaries typically range between $75,000 and $90,000 depending on province and experience.
Do I need a licence to work as an occupational therapist in Canada?
Yes. Occupational therapists must register with a provincial or territorial regulatory body and pass the National Occupational Therapy Certification Examination (NOTCE) before practising in Canada.
Can I immigrate without a job offer?
Yes. You can apply through the Federal Skilled Worker or Canadian Experience Class programs under Express Entry. However, having a Canadian job offer or a provincial nomination significantly increases your chances of selection.
