Can a Social Worker Immigrate to Canada?

Q: Can a Social Worker immigrate to Canada?

Yes, Social Workers can immigrate to Canada through programs like Express Entry (FSW), Provincial Nominee Programs, and employer-sponsored LMIA work permits. There are currently 112 active job openings and 85 employers hiring.

Yes — here are the immigration programs, active jobs, and provinces hiring social workers in Canada right now.

112

Active Jobs

Employers Hiring

Provinces

Very High

Demand

Key Requirements

Work Experience

One to two years of continuous paid work experience as a social worker 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 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 112 active social worker 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 Match

Federal Skilled Worker program for qualified professionals with work experience.

Provincial Nominee Program

Medium Match

Provinces nominate workers with in-demand skills. Adds 600 CRS points.

Temporary Work Permit (LMIA)

High Match

Employer-sponsored LMIA work permit — gain Canadian experience, then transition to PR.

Atlantic Immigration Program

Medium Match

Employer-driven program for Atlantic Canada with faster processing.

International Experience Canada

Medium Match

Working holiday or young professional visa for eligible countries.

Salary Information

Province	Median	Low	High
Alberta	$37.09/hr	$23.03	$48.96
British Columbia	$39.39/hr	$25.62	$46.02
Manitoba	$35.24/hr	$21.26	$45.68
New Brunswick	$34.73/hr	$22.58	$40.98
Newfoundland and Labrador	$38.76/hr	$28.47	$47.52
Northwest Territories	$36.02/hr	$12.50	$53.55
Nova Scotia	$35.08/hr	$22.86	$46.33
Nunavut	—	—	—
Ontario	$36.10/hr	$24.22	$48.70
Prince Edward Island	$35.90/hr	$24.04	$41.42
Quebec	$35.10/hr	$24.52	$45.14
Saskatchewan	$36.07/hr	$27.47	$42.80
Yukon	$34.43/hr	$13.26	$46.23