LMIA FinderCan a Scientist Immigrate to Canada?
Yes — here are the immigration programs, active jobs, and provinces hiring scientists 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 scientist 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 32 active scientist 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
Medium 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 | $50.00/hr | $30.77 | $100.00 |
| Alberta | $44.43/hr | $28.85 | $117.95 |
| British Columbia | $52.31/hr | $33.15 | $88.53 |
| Manitoba | $46.18/hr | $28.44 | $60.98 |
| New Brunswick | $48.72/hr | $30.67 | $76.92 |
| Newfoundland and Labrador | $50.00/hr | $25.18 | $99.16 |
| Northwest Territories | — | — | — |
| Nova Scotia | $47.09/hr | $30.60 | $71.36 |
| Nunavut | — | — | — |
| Ontario | $56.09/hr | $33.65 | $83.74 |
| Prince Edward Island | — | — | — |
| Quebec | $48.88/hr | $32.56 | $71.20 |
| Saskatchewan | $52.20/hr | $27.50 | $77.88 |
Top Provinces Hiring
Current Job Openings
Engineering Scientist
$57.69 hourlyOz Optics Ltd. · Carp, Ontario
Data Scientist
$42.00 to $45.00 hourly (to be negotiated)Onikon Creative Lab · Shediac, New Brunswick
Biological Scientist
$75,000.00 annuallyCharles River Laboratories · Senneville, Quebec
Biological Scientist
$36.35 hourlyJenthera Therapeutics Inc · Various Locations
Data Scientist
$41.91 hourlyEquipement D'emballage M.m.c. Ltee · Laval, Quebec
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