LMIA FinderCan a Specialist Physician from South Africa Immigrate to Canada?
Yes — here are the immigration pathways, active jobs, and salary data for specialist physicians from South Africa looking to move to Canada.
Immigration Pathways for South Africa Citizens
Express Entry
Permanent ResidenceCitizens of South Africa can apply through Express Entry (FSW, CEC, or FST) based on CRS score.
Employer-Sponsored LMIA
Temporary WorkA Canadian employer can sponsor a worker from South Africa through the LMIA process for a work permit.
Key Requirements
Work Experience
You usually need at least one to two years of continuous paid work experience as a specialist physician or in a closely related role.
Language Tests
You must prove your English or French skills by taking an approved language test. IELTS General Training or CELPIP are accepted for English; TEF Canada or TCF Canada for French. A CLB 7 or higher in all abilities is recommended for Express Entry.
Education & Credential Assessment
Medical credentials from South Africa must be verified by the Medical Council of Canada (MCC). International medical graduates must pass the MCCQE Part I and Part II and complete a Canadian residency program.
Licensing and Registration
Medicine is regulated in all provinces. You must be licensed by the provincial College of Physicians and Surgeons to practise.
Job Offer
A valid job offer supported by a positive LMIA is required for employer-sponsored work permits and can satisfy eligibility criteria for certain Express Entry programs (FSW, FST). Note: as of March 2025, job offers no longer add CRS points.
Proof of Funds
You must show you have enough money to support yourself and your family when you arrive in Canada. The current minimum is $15,263 for a single applicant and $28,362 for a family of 4. This requirement is 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 Programs for Specialist Physicians
Express Entry (FSW)
Medium 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.
Specialist Physician Salaries in Canada
| Province | Median | Low | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alberta | — | — | — |
| British Columbia | $251k/yr | $95k | $512k |
| Manitoba | $325k/yr | $98k | $637k |
| New Brunswick | $287k/yr | $121k | $528k |
| Newfoundland and Labrador | $268k/yr | $130k | $519k |
| Northwest Territories | — | — | — |
| Nova Scotia | $247k/yr | $160k | $455k |
| Nunavut | — | — | — |
| Ontario | $255k/yr | $89k | $526k |
| Prince Edward Island | $308k/yr | $76k | $554k |
| Quebec | — | — | — |
| Saskatchewan | — | — | — |
| Yukon | — | — | — |
Top Provinces Hiring Specialist Physicians
Current Specialist Physician Openings
Specialist Physician
$500,000.00 to $700,000.00 annually (to be negotiated)Physiologix Health Services · Edmonton, Alberta
Specialist Physician
$295,785.00 to $410,000.00 annually (to be negotiated)Sickkids · Toronto, Ontario
Specialist Physician
$298,110.00 to $425,880.00 annually (to be negotiated)Sickkids · Toronto, Ontario
Specialist Physician
$2,000.00 to $10,000.00 weeklyBehealth Medical Centre · Richmond, British Columbia
Specialist Physician
$126,465.00 to $607,184.00 annuallyJackman Eye Institute · St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador
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