Can a Medical Laboratory Assistant Immigrate to Canada?
Yes — here are the immigration programs, active jobs, and provinces hiring medical laboratory assistants in Canada right now.
Key Requirements
Work Experience
One to two years of continuous paid work experience as a medical laboratory assistant or in a closely related role.
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 & Certification
Medical laboratory technologists and technicians typically need certification from the Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science (CSMLS). Internationally educated professionals may need to pass CSMLS certification examinations.
Licensing and Registration
Medical laboratory technology is regulated in several provinces. Registration with the provincial regulatory body may be required.
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 19 active medical laboratory assistant 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.
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.
Salary Information
| Province | Median | Low | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canada | $27.00/hr | $19.18 | $36.11 |
| Alberta | $28.55/hr | $22.85 | $35.29 |
| British Columbia | $28.32/hr | $22.86 | $34.19 |
| Manitoba | $25.85/hr | $18.08 | $37.63 |
| New Brunswick | $24.62/hr | $21.38 | $30.42 |
| Newfoundland and Labrador | $25.84/hr | $20.97 | $31.42 |
| Northwest Territories | — | — | — |
| Nova Scotia | $25.98/hr | $21.51 | $29.94 |
| Nunavut | — | — | — |
| Ontario | $26.99/hr | $20.84 | $35.65 |
| Prince Edward Island | $25.00/hr | $21.63 | $38.00 |
| Quebec | $31.01/hr | $24.11 | $36.47 |
| Saskatchewan | $25.19/hr | $22.11 | $35.46 |
Top Provinces Hiring
Current Job Openings
Medical Laboratory Assistant
$36.92 hourlyGreen Clinic West · North York, Ontario
Medical Laboratory Assistant
$38.00 hourlyWorld Pharmacy · Thornhill, Ontario
Medical Laboratory Assistant
$18.50 to $20.00 hourly (to be negotiated)New Best Care Medical Clinic · Mississauga, Ontario
Collection Direct Health Measures Specialist - Medical Laboratory Technologist/assistant
$71,741.00 annuallyStatistics Canada
Medical Laboratory Assistant
$27.66 to $29.41 hourlyVitalité Health Network · Moncton, New Brunswick
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