LMIA FinderCan Occupational Therapists Immigrate to Canada?
Yes — here are the immigration programs, active jobs, and provinces hiring occupational therapists in Canada right now.
Key Requirements
Work Experience
One to two years of continuous paid work experience as a occupational therapists 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 & Credential Assessment
Internationally educated occupational therapists must have their credentials assessed by the Association of Canadian Occupational Therapy Regulatory Organizations (ACOTRO). You will need to pass the National Occupational Therapy Certification Examination (NOTCE).
Licensing and Registration
Occupational therapy is a regulated profession. Registration with the provincial/territorial regulatory body is required before you can practise.
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 88 active occupational therapists 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)
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.
Salary Information
| Province | Median | Low | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alberta | $46.90/hr | $40.90 | $52.95 |
| British Columbia | $42.52/hr | $24.92 | $50.50 |
| Manitoba | $38.46/hr | $30.00 | $43.44 |
| New Brunswick | $40.79/hr | $36.00 | $45.00 |
| Newfoundland and Labrador | $45.59/hr | $43.89 | $51.00 |
| Northwest Territories | — | — | — |
| Nova Scotia | $37.38/hr | $28.61 | $42.66 |
| Nunavut | — | — | — |
| Ontario | $42.80/hr | $31.96 | $48.64 |
| Prince Edward Island | $35.79/hr | $26.15 | $42.43 |
| Quebec | $38.76/hr | $29.46 | $46.13 |
| Saskatchewan | $43.00/hr | $35.00 | $48.00 |
| Yukon | — | — | — |
Top Provinces Hiring
Current Job Openings
Ot (occupational Therapist)
$54.48 hourlyCariboo Chilcotin Child Development Centre · Williams Lake, British Columbia
Clinical Occupational Therapist
$43.00 to $53.60 hourlyNl Health Services · Happy Valley-Goose Bay, Newfoundland and Labrador
Occupational Therapist, Community Practice
$36.17 to $55.00 hourlyNew Brunswick Extra-Mural (emp) · Miramichi, New Brunswick
Clinical Occupational Therapist
$43.00 to $53.60 hourlyNl Health Services · Corner Brook, Newfoundland and Labrador
Occupational Therapist (ot)
$150.00 hourlyThe Behaviour Team · North York, Ontario
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