LMIA FinderCan Researchers Immigrate to Canada?
Yes — here are the immigration programs, active jobs, and provinces hiring researchers 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 researchers 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 15 active researchers 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canada | $43.27/hr | $28.57 | $65.38 |
| Alberta | $44.48/hr | $29.15 | $71.97 |
| British Columbia | $43.14/hr | $31.80 | $59.76 |
| Manitoba | $39.87/hr | $24.16 | $61.18 |
| New Brunswick | $41.08/hr | $26.42 | $61.71 |
| Newfoundland and Labrador | $41.59/hr | $31.69 | $58.57 |
| Northwest Territories | $55.24/hr | $40.15 | $93.09 |
| Nova Scotia | $39.32/hr | $24.73 | $53.86 |
| Nunavut | $62.77/hr | $45.01 | $77.76 |
| Ontario | $44.90/hr | $32.31 | $64.04 |
| Prince Edward Island | $34.19/hr | $27.00 | $45.64 |
| Quebec | $43.74/hr | $29.28 | $60.43 |
| Saskatchewan | $42.05/hr | $26.45 | $60.76 |
Top Provinces Hiring
Current Job Openings
Chemistry Researcher
$70,000.00 to $90,000.00 annually (to be negotiated)Nuchem Sciences Inc. · Saint-Laurent, Quebec
Researcher, Natural and Applied Sciences
$97,500.00 to $130,000.00 annuallyMccain Foods · Florenceville-Bristol, New Brunswick
Researcher, Natural and Applied Sciences
$85,000.00 to $95,000.00 annuallyOntario Soil and Crop Improvement Association · Guelph, Ontario
Compensation Researcher-Analyst
$26.00 to $59.77 hourlyEnglobe Corp. · Toronto, Ontario
Social Science Researcher
Starting wage 55,000-60,000Saskatchewan Prevention Institute Inc. · Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
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