LMIA FinderCan Software Developers And Programmers Immigrate to Canada?
Yes — here are the immigration programs, active jobs, and provinces hiring software developers and programmers 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 software developers and programmers 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 177 active software developers and programmers 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canada | $48.08/hr | $30.00 | $76.92 |
| Alberta | $45.05/hr | $30.18 | $69.77 |
| British Columbia | $50.00/hr | $31.39 | $77.29 |
| Manitoba | $40.70/hr | $29.56 | $57.89 |
| New Brunswick | $44.07/hr | $28.59 | $71.75 |
| Newfoundland and Labrador | $43.75/hr | $30.39 | $74.52 |
| Northwest Territories | — | — | — |
| Nova Scotia | $41.11/hr | $28.25 | $62.34 |
| Nunavut | — | — | — |
| Ontario | $46.85/hr | $29.49 | $75.44 |
| Prince Edward Island | $29.80/hr | $20.00 | $55.46 |
| Quebec | $44.87/hr | $29.44 | $65.11 |
| Saskatchewan | $46.95/hr | $29.10 | $65.02 |
Top Provinces Hiring
Current Job Openings
Senior Software Developer
$52.50 hourlyInnowave Software Solutions and Consulting Inc. · Langley, British Columbia
Software Developer
$49.00 hourlySapphiretechus · Fergus, Ontario
Computer Numerical Control (cnc) Mastercam Programmer
$40.00 to $45.00 hourly (to be negotiated)Aptech Precision Machining Inc · Richmond, British Columbia
Software Developer
$96,000.00 to $100,000.00 annually (to be negotiated)Corinex · Vancouver, British Columbia
Cad/cam (computer-Aided Design/computer-Assisted Manufacturing) Programmer
$20.00 to $28.00 hourly (to be negotiated)3d Laser & Fabrication Inc. · Brampton, Ontario
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