LMIA FinderCan a Dental Hygienists And Dental Therapists from United States Immigrate to Canada?
Yes — here are the immigration pathways, active jobs, and salary data for dental hygienists and dental therapists from United States looking to move to Canada.
Immigration Pathways for United States Citizens
CUSMA/USMCA Work Permit
Trade AgreementCitizens of United States can access intra-company transfer and professional worker categories under CUSMA without LMIA.
Express Entry
Permanent ResidenceCitizens of United States can apply through Express Entry (FSW, CEC, or FST) based on CRS score.
Employer-Sponsored LMIA
Temporary WorkA Canadian employer can sponsor a worker from United States through the LMIA process for a work permit.
Key Requirements
Work Experience
You usually need at least one to two years of continuous paid work experience as a dental hygienists and dental therapists or in a closely related role.
Language Tests
You must prove your English or French skills by taking an approved language test. IELTS General Training or CELPIP are accepted for English; TEF Canada or TCF Canada for French. A CLB 7 or higher in all abilities is recommended for Express Entry.
Education & Credential Assessment
Dental credentials from United States must be assessed. Dentists typically need NDEB examinations; dental hygienists need NDHCB certification.
Licensing and Registration
Dentistry and dental hygiene are regulated. Provincial registration is required.
Job Offer
While a valid job offer no longer adds CRS points (removed March 2025), it remains an eligibility requirement for some Express Entry programs and is needed for employer-sponsored work permits. There are currently 215 active dental hygienists and dental therapists openings on Job Bank.
Proof of Funds
You must show you have enough money to support yourself and your family when you arrive in Canada. The current minimum is $15,263 for a single applicant and $28,362 for a family of 4. This requirement is 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 |
CUSMA/USMCA Advantage
As a United States citizen, you may qualify for CUSMA professional categories that do not require an LMIA. Check if your occupation is on the CUSMA professions list for expedited work permit processing.
Eligible Programs for Dental Hygienists And Dental Therapists
Express Entry (FSW)
High 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.
Temporary Work Permit (LMIA)
High MatchEmployer-sponsored LMIA work permit — gain Canadian experience, then transition to PR.
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.
Dental Hygienists And Dental Therapists Salaries in Canada
| Province | Median | Low | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alberta | $55.00/hr | $28.71 | $63.24 |
| British Columbia | $45.45/hr | $37.97 | $54.17 |
| Manitoba | $42.00/hr | $37.00 | $48.85 |
| New Brunswick | $35.00/hr | $26.05 | $40.00 |
| Newfoundland and Labrador | $46.52/hr | $35.89 | $65.57 |
| Northwest Territories | — | — | — |
| Nova Scotia | $34.84/hr | $31.71 | $38.93 |
| Nunavut | — | — | — |
| Ontario | $37.23/hr | $29.38 | $43.60 |
| Prince Edward Island | $35.00/hr | $29.00 | $40.00 |
| Quebec | $31.60/hr | $25.85 | $38.40 |
| Saskatchewan | $46.13/hr | $40.32 | $65.19 |
| Yukon | — | — | — |
Top Provinces Hiring Dental Hygienists And Dental Therapists
Current Dental Hygienists And Dental Therapists Openings
Dental Hygienist
$30.00 hourlyCentre Dentaire Lachance · Rimouski, Quebec
Registered Dental Hygienist
$75,000.00 to $90,000.00 annually (to be negotiated)Clinique Dentaire Champlain Dental Clinic Inc. · Dieppe, New Brunswick
Registered Dental Hygienist
$75,000.00 to $90,000.00 annually (to be negotiated)Clinique Dentaire Champlain Dental Clinic Inc. · Shediac, New Brunswick
Registered Dental Hygienist
$50.00 to $60.00 hourly (to be negotiated)Fort Frances Family Dentists · Fort Frances, Ontario
Dental Hygienist
$10,000.00 to $12,000.00 monthly (to be negotiated)Somba Ke Family Dental · Yellowknife, Northwest Territories
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