Can a Principal Immigrate to Canada?
Yes — here are the immigration programs, active jobs, and provinces hiring principals 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 principal 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 18 active principal 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
Medium 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alberta | $46.15/hr | $32.05 | $60.00 |
| British Columbia | $42.57/hr | $20.03 | $54.49 |
| Manitoba | $43.08/hr | $29.33 | $64.90 |
| New Brunswick | $40.38/hr | $20.92 | $47.12 |
| Newfoundland and Labrador | $44.87/hr | $29.74 | $51.10 |
| Northwest Territories | $49.95/hr | $28.23 | $60.55 |
| Nova Scotia | $41.67/hr | $28.26 | $52.88 |
| Nunavut | $53.39/hr | $42.80 | $62.34 |
| Ontario | $48.08/hr | $26.42 | $60.06 |
| Prince Edward Island | $41.83/hr | $30.77 | $48.72 |
| Quebec | $43.96/hr | $27.59 | $54.40 |
| Saskatchewan | $47.42/hr | $31.15 | $64.10 |
| Yukon | — | — | — |
Top Provinces Hiring
Current Job Openings
Principal Estimator - Construction
$37.98 hourlyD.f. Brown Roofing · Thorold, Ontario
Vice-Principal, School
$107,036.00 annuallyRegent Christian Academy Society · Surrey, British Columbia
Principal
$145,000.00 annuallyAz-Zahraa Islamic Academy · Richmond, British Columbia
School Vice-Principal
$29.00 to $39.00 hourly (to be negotiated)Am-Can Business & Tech School · Concord, Ontario
Community School Principal
$103,121.00 to $137,492.00 annuallyKativik Ilisarniliriniq (la Commission Scolaire Du Nunavik) · Inukjuak, Quebec
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