Can a Data Scientist Immigrate to Canada?
Yes — here are the immigration programs, active jobs, and provinces hiring data scientists in Canada right now.
Key Requirements
Work Experience
At least one year of continuous full-time (or equivalent part-time) paid work experience as a data scientist within the last 10 years.
Language Proficiency
Proof of English or French language skills via an approved test (IELTS, CELPIP for English; TEF, TCF for French). A minimum CLB 7 in all abilities is recommended for Express Entry.
Education Assessment
An Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) from a designated organization (e.g., WES, IQAS) to verify your foreign diploma or degree is equivalent to a Canadian credential.
Job Offer (Optional)
A valid job offer no longer adds CRS points (removed March 2025), but it can satisfy eligibility for certain Express Entry programs and is required for employer-sponsored work permits. There are currently 13 active data scientist openings on Job Bank.
Proof of Funds
You must demonstrate sufficient settlement funds — currently $15,263 for a single applicant, $28,362 for a family of 4. Waived if you have a valid Canadian job offer.
| Family Size | Minimum Funds (CAD) |
|---|---|
| 1 (Single) | $15,263 |
| 2 (Couple) | $19,001 |
| 3 | $23,360 |
| 4 | $28,362 |
| 5 | $32,168 |
| 6 | $36,280 |
| 7 | $40,392 |
| Each additional member | +$4,112 |
Eligible Immigration Programs
Express Entry (FSW)
Medium MatchFederal Skilled Worker program for qualified professionals with work experience.
Provincial Nominee Program
High MatchProvinces nominate workers with in-demand skills. Adds 600 CRS points.
Atlantic Immigration Program
Medium MatchEmployer-driven program for Atlantic Canada with faster processing.
International Experience Canada
Medium MatchWorking holiday or young professional visa for eligible countries.
Salary Information
| Province | Median | Low | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canada | $46.15/hr | $30.00 | $69.74 |
| Alberta | $44.28/hr | $29.18 | $62.48 |
| British Columbia | $48.08/hr | $32.45 | $88.94 |
| Manitoba | $45.00/hr | $29.09 | $60.10 |
| New Brunswick | $41.44/hr | $25.03 | $70.64 |
| Newfoundland and Labrador | $41.76/hr | $20.00 | $66.67 |
| Northwest Territories | — | — | — |
| Nova Scotia | $44.06/hr | $24.09 | $65.75 |
| Nunavut | — | — | — |
| Ontario | $47.69/hr | $30.44 | $68.14 |
| Prince Edward Island | — | — | — |
| Quebec | $45.66/hr | $33.12 | $72.91 |
| Saskatchewan | $42.05/hr | $32.69 | $57.69 |
Top Provinces Hiring
Current Job Openings
Data Scientist
$42.00 to $45.00 hourly (to be negotiated)Onikon Creative Lab · Shediac, New Brunswick
Data Scientist
$41.91 hourlyEquipement D'emballage M.m.c. Ltee · Laval, Quebec
Data Scientist
$71.85 hourlyMaplerecord · Bowmanville, Ontario
Data Scientist
$26.00 to $78.00 hourlyAnalyticsmart · Toronto, Ontario
Data Scientist
$30.00 to $69.74 hourlyCooke Aquaculture Inc. · Saint John, New Brunswick
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