Now is a good time to consider moving to Canada and working as a midwife in Canada. There are significant job shortages in the healthcare industry in the country, including midwives. This has created an opportunity for internationally trained midwives who are looking for midwife jobs in Canada. Midwife salaries are good and there are many midwife career opportunities.
A good place to start your research is with the Canadian Association of Midwives (CAM). They are a national organization representing midwives and the midwife profession in Canada. It provides leadership and advocacy for midwifery as a regulated, publicly funded, and vital part of the primary maternity care system in all provinces and territories. CAM also promotes the development of the profession in the public interest and contributes the midwifery perspective to the national health policy agenda.
Another helpful resource to conduct research about the profession is the Government of Canada Job Bank. Here you can explore information about regional wages, job prospects, and requirements.
If you’re interested in continuing your midwife career in Canada, explore the job requirements, job search techniques, professional associations, and more.
Researching midwife career requirements before you come to Canada can give you a head start once you arrive in the country.
Requirements are different than what you are accustomed to in your home country. It can be time-consuming to become a midwife, so it’s helpful to know what to expect.
There are steps that you can take before you immigrate to improve your chances of practicing your midwifery in Canada.
Before You Move to Canada to Pursue a Midwife Career
Contact the provincial midwife regulatory body in the province where you plan to work to determine:
How your international qualifications will be assessed
How to follow the licensing process, costs, and time required to become registered
What documents to bring for employment purposes, or to continue your education? Verify if documents need to be translated. You may need to use a professional translation service in Canada.
Steps that you can take before and after you move to Canada
Check out the Canadian Midwifery Regulators Council (CMRC) website for internationally-educated midwives for information about registering as a midwife in Canada and the required competencies.
Understand how midwifery is practiced in Canada and familiarize yourself with the procedures, regulations, and legislation that govern your profession in the province where you will settle.
Improve your language skills. To practice midwifery, you require advanced English or French (depending on your destination province) language competency.
Enroll in language classes while in your home country and continue them after you move to Canada.
Gather and organize your official education, work, and identity documents while still in your home country.
Explore midwife salary, compensation, and benefits options.
Know example midwife job titles that are used in Canada to help with your job search.
What to Expect When Pursuing a Midwife Career in Canada
The midwife profession is regulated in Canada (except in Newfoundland and Labrador; Prince Edward Island, and Yukon Territory). In regulated provinces, provincial/territorial regulatory bodies set the standards for entry into the profession and issue licenses to practice to those eligible.
Midwives who register with a regulatory body can use the title “Registered Midwife”. This also allows you to perform duties that are restricted to midwives through legislation legally. So, it’s critical to gather information about the registration process before you move to Canada.
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Employment Outlook for Midwife Jobs in Canada
If you have international midwife qualifications, it’s essential to research the profession in Canada. What’s required, the type of duties, and example job titles. All the information will help you to prepare for your job search before and after you arrive in Canada.
According to the Government of Canada’s Job Bank, prospects for midwife jobs are very good in most provinces, including Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Ontario, and Saskatchewan.
It’s projected there will be a shortage of midwives for 2022-2031. This is good news for internationally trained midwives. There will be lots of job opportunities in the coming years. This trend could also see midwife salaries increase in the coming years.
Start Your Research with the NOC Code for Midwife Jobs in Canada
The National Occupational Classification (NOC) is a great place to begin your research. The NOC 31303 provides a standard definition of the midwife’s role. You can use the information to clearly understand the role, main duties, job requirements, and example titles. This information can help you conduct your job search more effectively in Canada.
Use the NOC 31303 to understand job requirements and main duties in Canada.
Canadian Midwife CareerRequirements
To work as a midwife in Canada, employers usually require that you have completed an undergraduate degree program in midwifery (or equivalent program) along with supervised practical training. As well, to get a midwife job you must register with a regulatory body in the provinces of Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Quebec, Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta, British Columbia, the Northwest Territories, and Nunavut.
Below we explain the steps you will need to take to work as a Midwife in Canada:
Credential Recognition to Meet Job Requirements in Canada
Internationally educated midwives must demonstrate that they have the skills, knowledge, and abilities required of a Canadian Registered Midwife. This process known as credentials recognition ensures that your international experience and credentials are assessed fairly and rigorously. Having your credentials recognized will also improve your midwife’s salary.
Requirements for full registration differ by jurisdiction. Please check the CMRC website for the latest requirements.
To find more organizations and agencies that provide credential evaluation, assessment, and qualification recognition services click here.
Upgrading Your Skills to Meet Midwife Job Requirements in Canada
Canadian employers put a high emphasis on soft skills, which are personal attributes that enhance your interactions, job performance, and career prospects. Unlike your technical or hard skills, you can apply your soft skills broadly. If your hard skills get you an interview, often it’s your soft skills that will get you the job and succeed in it.
If you plan to work in private practice, you need to have good business administration skills, such as hiring staff and record-keeping, and have knowledge of medico-legal issues and risk management.
Midwifery is relatively a new profession in Canada, and you must be willing to educate the public about it and deal with the challenges of integrating a new profession into the healthcare system.
If you plan to attend college or university to upgrade your skills, contact the school to find out what steps to take and what assessment agency to use to assess your education credentials.
Be sure to highlight your international education and skills. Build on your existing knowledge, skills, and education before you decide if you need to return to school for more training. You may be able to receive advanced standing, transfer some of your credits and benefit from prior learning assessment options and gain credit or course exemption. Any of these activities will allow you to complete additional education more quickly, save money, and avoid repeating the education you already have.
Language Training in Canada
While you may have strong technical skills, often that’s not enough to get a job or maintain it afterward. You may need more training or skills upgrading.
Having strong skills in one or both of Canada’s official languages – English or French – is extremely important for your future in Canada. Whether you choose to focus on learning or improving English or French will depend on which of the two languages most people speak in the area where you intend to live.
If you already speak one of Canada’s two official languages at a high level, learning the other one is a good option, as it may offer you more employment opportunities.
Bridging Programs for Midwife Careers in Canada
Bridging programs are a good way to transition from your international experience and training to the Canadian workplace. Many colleges, universities, and immigrant-serving agencies offer bridging programs or workshops for newcomers. You may be eligible for one.
There are two bridging programs that are offered in Canada:
The IEMBP program is for midwives who have completed their education at an approved midwifery program outside of Canada. It helps midwives to use their skills in a Canadian context.
The IMPP is a bridging program for qualified midwives educated outside of Canada who wish to practice in Ontario. The program is intended for experienced international midwives, fluent in English, who have practiced midwifery for the past five years. It is not a re-education or re-training program.
Midwife Schools in Canada
Many immigrants take further education after coming to Canada. Some even want to change careers or enhance their careers with a Ph.D. or MBA. Learn more about the benefits of higher education for newcomers.
There are several Canadian universities offering midwifery programs. Each program administers exams recognized by their respective provincial regulatory bodies. The courses and programs will vary to some degree. Here are several schools to consider:
The following associations provide information about licensing, and certification, and offer professional development and networking opportunities. They can help you further your midwife career.
Professional immigrant networks are organized, volunteer-run member-based associations or networks created by and for immigrant professionals that seek to:
Create a forum to contribute to and enrich their respective communities
Provide opportunities for their members to find meaningful employment and achieve their professional goals.
Activities offered include networking events, mentoring, and professional development opportunities. You can also learn about connections to job opportunities.
For more information about working and living in Canada, visit our Finding a Job in Canada page. We’ll help you to achieve your goals in Canada!
How Much Do Midwives Make in Canada?
Midwife salaries can start at $20 per hour and go up to $65 per hour. The median midwife salary is $54.01 per hour. From an annual salary perspective, midwives can expect to make between $41,600 and $135, 200 per year. The average midwife salary is $112, 340.
The compensation you’ll be offered will depend on your level of experience, education, and where you live in Canada. Quebec and Alberta have the lowest median hourly rate. Ontario and British Columbia have the highest median hourly rate.
Midwife Salary in Canada
Your earning potential can vary based on where you choose to work. A midwife’s salary can vary significantly based on your province and home city. Here are the most recent midwife salary numbers in Canada:
Best Provinces to Work in Canada Based on Midwife Salary & Lifestyle
Job prospects can vary across Canada. Identifying the best locations or cities for midwives can help you decide what location offers the greatest job opportunities. Generally, job prospects in this occupation are very positive and demand is soaring for midwives from different cultures.
Though most Canadian cities offer employment opportunities to practice as a midwife, you may find more opportunities in fast-growing cities such as Edmonton or Calgary, Alberta, or the province of Ontario. When looking for jobs, broaden your geographic area to include smaller cities and towns close to your target city. Some smaller regions may be willing to offer a higher midwife salary to recruit you to work in the area.
Before deciding where you want to settle in Canada, research and find out where there is a high demand for midwives.
Pursuing a Midwife Career in Canada
Job prospects for midwife careers can vary across Canada. It’s important to research the profession before you arrive.
Becoming a midwife in Canada is similar to many other healthcare professions. You’ll need to complete rigorous academic and practical training before you can work in the field. The following information can help you to continue your midwife career in Canada.
Top Employers for Jobs in Canada
In Canada, midwives work in collaboration with other health professionals and consult with or refer to medical specialists as appropriate. They attend births in hospitals, birth centres, and at home. Midwives can work in hospitals, clinics, birthing centres, or in private practice.
Visit Canada’s Best Diversity Employers website to locate hospitals or healthcare centres that you might be interested in. The Best Diversity Employers receive this special designation for their commitment to workplace diversity, inclusion, and equity.
How to Find Your First Midwife Job in Canada
The demand for midwives is high in most Canadian cities. However, the Canadian job market is very competitive, so you must understand and prepare to gain employment. As well, finding a job in Canada may be very different than in your home country.
There are many ways through which you can search for opportunities to practice as a midwife.
Seek out a mentor in the midwifery sector – for example, a retired midwife – who would give you valuable insights and advice and introduce you to their professional network.
Join healthcare-related job-finding or networking clubs through immigrant-serving agencies.
Attend industry job fairs and check online job boards regularly.
Some colleges or associations maintain a job bank or can suggest a commercial job site.
Consult Immigrant Settlement Agencies that Work with Midwives
Most settlement agencies and other immigrant-serving organizations offer help to find job vacancies, update your resume, write cover letters, prepare for interviews, understand what Canadian employers are looking for, and educate about self-employment. To find immigrant services in your area, click here.
Resume Writing Tips for Midwife Jobs
As the Canadian job market is competitive, your resume needs to stand out from other midwifery applicants.
Your resume is the most important part of your midwife job search. It’s your marketing tool that shows your credentials and an invitation for employers to learn about your midwifery skills and qualifications.
Submitting a well-written resume along with a strong cover letter is the primary step in your job application process. Your goal is to write an effective resume that highlights your relevant experience and accomplishments to spark interest in that will spark their interest in interviewing you. Your resume must link your experience, education, and skills directly to the midwife job description. As you begin to write your resume, work on the content and composition, then decide on a format that highlights your strengths and career goals. Expect to go through several drafts in this process.
Your application for your midwifery post has been successful and you’ve been invited to interview – well done! Having reached this stage of the selection process, you need to prepare for your interview. The interview is your chance to show potential employers that you have the right personality, qualifications, experience, and proven track record for the role.
During the interview, the hiring manager will ask you standard questions that you can easily prepare for. However, they may ask questions that you do not expect. But the more you prepare, the more confident you will be. So, focus your responses around the key competencies and skills of the midwife job.
Tips to Prepare for the Job Interview
Research your prospective employer before the interview. Visit their website for information such as the size of the organization, key priorities, and other details. Ask other midwives about the reputation, strengths, and weaknesses of the practice.
Read the job description and assess how your knowledge and experience match the job requirements.
Identify why you want to work at the organization. Hiring managers commonly ask why you’re interested in working for the organization.
Common Midwife Job Interview Questions
Here are some common questions that you can expect to answer.
What do you consider your strengths to be as a midwife?
What qualities make you an effective member of the maternity team?
Describe how you stay current on midwifery best practices.
The interviewer may ask questions to gain insight into your approach to work situations and people. For example:
If a woman had a post-partum hemorrhage immediately following the delivery of a baby, what would you do? In this case, you might outline a process similar to this:
Assess the situation
Take appropriate action
Follow procedures and guidelines
Communicate appropriately
Keep proper records
Evaluate and learn from the situation.
Prepare to ask questions at the end of your interview to show that you have a genuine interest in the position. For example:
How do you support employee professional development? This question shows your commitment to learning and development and may help you decide if this is the right employer for you.
How would you describe the work culture? This can help you assess if the employer is attentive to issues such as work-life balance, team dynamics, and a positive work environment. This question indicates your interest to work in a positive environment. Hopefully, you will be seen as someone who would contribute in a positive way.
What are the most significant issues that the organization is facing? This shows that you see your role in the context of the bigger picture. You can also find out how your role may be affected by future changes or projects.
Informational Interviews for Midwife Careers
An informational interview is a brief (20–30-minute) meeting that you schedule with a midwife to learn more about the profession in Canada.
You should not try to get a midwifery job during an informational interview but rather find out more about practising midwifery in Canada. An informational interview with a contact from your network can be an excellent source of career information. In addition to gathering information about the midwife profession in Canada, you’ll gain the benefit of a professional’s first-hand experiences and impressions.
Networking Advice to Help Newcomers Find a Midwife Job
It’s helpful to connect with practising midwives to discover jobs in the “hidden job market”.
Meeting new people, building relationships, and sharing information is really what networking is all about. It’s also an essential activity that can help you discover job leads, learn about the profession in Canada, and expand your network. This is particularly important if you’re new to Canada.
As many midwife job vacancies are not advertised, connecting with other midwives can help you find a job in what’s known as the “hidden job market”. Good places to network include conferences and association events.
LinkedIn is another important professional tool for networking. It is great to connect with former colleagues, search for companies and jobs, and get introductions to people currently working in a midwife job.
You can also join some related professional groups to learn about midwifery in Canada, make contacts, and access important resources. But remember, that you have to allow time to cultivate and grow the ties you establish through networking. Nothing will happen overnight and it’s helpful to be patient. Starting to network before you move to Canada can help you identify opportunities.
With a positive outlook for Midwife jobs in Canada, now is the time to check out your options. Interested in learning more about working in Canada? Check out our Finding a Job in Canada resource page. We can help you achieve your career goals in Canada.
Optometry jobs are one of the many within healthcare experiencing a shortage now or will soon. The Canadian population is aging and many in the profession are retiring. This has created a great opportunity for internationally trained optometrists to pursue optometry careers in Canada. If you’re currently in or have graduated optometry school abroad, moving to Canada is worth considering.
Becoming an optometrist in Canada requires years of education and training. A Doctor of Optometry requires seven to eight years of post-secondary education to obtain a professional designation.
To start, you’ll need to complete a Bachelor of Science degree or higher from a recognized optometry school. Following this, you need to complete a four-year Doctor of Optometry Degree at a school of optometry from an accredited university. In addition to an optometry degree, graduates must meet provincial licensing requirements in the province or territory where they plan to settle. If you plan to continue your optometry career in Canada, you need to familiarize yourself with the necessary steps to complete. Below is an overview of optometrist job requirements, job search strategies, optometry salaries, and much more.
Before You Move to Canada to Pursue an Optometry Career
There are steps that you can take before you move to Canada to improve your chances of practicing your profession in Canada. Completing as many steps as possible can help you make a quicker transition in your optometry career once you move:
Improve your language skills, enroll in language classes in your home country, and continue them after moving to Canada.
Gather and organize your official education, work, and identity documents while still in your home country
Review optometry school options if you plan to upgrade your education.
Become familiar with how the optometry profession is practiced in Canada and the procedures, governing legislation, and regulations in the province where you plan to settle.
What to Expect When Pursuing an Optometry Career in Canada
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Optometrists are independent primary health care providers representing the front line of vision health. They can work in settings such as clinics, hospitals, community health centres, research, teaching, administration, or private practice.
An optometry career can offer routine or flexible working hours, along with a good income, and the option to own your own business. Several factors influence income including provincial healthcare coverage, practice location, optometry school credentials, and the services provided.
To learn more about working as an optometrist, the Government of Canada Job Bank provides information about wages, job prospects, job requirements, and skills. This site is a vital research tool to explore the labour market even before you arrive in Canada.
Employment Outlook for Optometrist Jobs in Canada
The outlook for optometrist jobs is good. Like other healthcare professions, optometry is also facing a critical labour shortage that is forecasted until 2028. This is mainly due to the:
Demand for optometry health services as the Canadian population ages
Prevalence of age-related eye conditions
The number of practicing optometrists who are approaching retirement as well as the field’s growth.
Not enough people in Canada graduating from optometry school.
This bodes well for an optometrist with international qualifications. But, you still need to meet specific optometry job requirements.
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Start Your Research with the NOC Code for Optometrist Jobs in Canada
If you have international qualifications, it’s important to research job requirements before you move to Canada. Careful research will give you an idea of what’s involved to continue your optometry career in Canada, and the length of time and cost to become licensed. The process can be time-consuming and costly, so you need to prepare yourself for this reality.
Using the NOC: 31111
You can start your optometry career research by using the National Occupational Classification (NOC) 31111 (NOC 2021 Version 1.0) for optometrists. The NOC provides a standard definition of the main duties that optometrists perform. You’ll also learn about the types of job titles and requirements.
Use the NOC 31111 to learn about the main duties and job requirements.
Requirements for Becoming an Optometrist in Canada
Credential Recognition to Meet Optometrist Job Requirements in Canada
Optometry is a regulated profession in Canada. Provincial and territorial regulatory bodies set the standards for entry into the profession and issue licenses to practice to those eligible. Licensing requirements include completing the Optometry Examining Board of Canada’s (OEBC) national exam and licensure by the provincial or territorial governing body.
By law, you can only practice as an optometrist in Canada, or use the title, if you have been authorized by a provincial or territorial regulatory body. Graduating from optometry school and having a degree is not enough.
Credential Assessment Services
Regardless of your education or experience, you must have a license to meet optometry career requirements in Canada. Credential assessment is the first of many steps before you can even apply for registration to practice optometry in any province or territory in Canada. The credential assessment process involves a fair and rigorous review of your international qualifications to ensure that they meet Canadian standards.
International graduates may be eligible to obtain a license or certificate of registration to practice in a province or territory in Canada. Optometrists educated outside of North America and who would like to practice in any Canadian province (except Quebec) must contact the Federation of Optometric Regulatory Authorities of Canada (FORAC) to have academic credentials assessed. Credential assessment results are valid for three years.
Before you can apply to FORAC for credential assessment, you must have your university education evaluated by World Education Services (WES). If your academic credentials are similar to the Doctor of Optometry program at the University of Waterloo, you can register for the Internationally Graduated Evaluating Exam.
Upgrading Your Skills to Meet Optometry Job Requirements
If you plan to attend a college or university program to upgrade your skills, contact the optometry school where you plan to study. Find out what steps to take based on your optometry career goals and what credential assessment agency you should use.
Make sure to highlight your international education and skills. Try to build on your existing knowledge and skills and explore university and college options thoroughly before deciding. There are differences between optometry schools in Canada.
You might be able to get advanced standing, transfer some of your credits, and benefit from prior learning assessment options by using your international credentials and experience to gain credit or course exemptions. This way you will complete your program more quickly, without wasting money and repeating the education you already have.
Skills Upgrading to Qualify for Optometrist Jobs in Canada
Canadian employers place a high value on soft skills. These are skills and personal attributes that enhance your interactions, job performance, and career prospects. Unlike your technical or hard skills, you can apply your soft skills broadly. While your hard skills will get you an interview, most likely it’s your soft skills that will get you the job and allow you to succeed.
Soft skills, such as communication, collaboration, and critical thinking skills are important job requirements for optometrists. Patients expect you to listen to them to understand their needs and concerns. If you are working with a team, strong interpersonal skills and teamwork are a necessity. Everyone must work as a unit to effectively assess patient needs and treatment options.
For those who plan to work in private practice, strong business skills are important job requirements for optometry careers. This can include skills such as financial management, budgeting, and knowledge of Canadian insurance plans and regulations. Though not a must, upgrading your education and skills through continuing education can be vital to meet job requirements in Canada.
Language Training for Optometrists in Canada
You may have strong technical skills, but often that is not enough to get a job or maintain it afterward. You may need more training or skills upgrading, especially regarding your communication skills and interpersonal skills.
Having strong skills in one or both of Canada’s official languages – English or French – is important for your future in Canada. Whether you choose to focus on improving English or French will depend on which of the two languages most people speak in the area where you intend to live.
If you already speak one of Canada’s two official languages at a high level, learning the other one is a good option, as it may offer you more job opportunities.
Bridging Programs for Optometrist Careers in Canada
The University of Waterloo also offers an Advanced Standing Optometry Preparatory Program (ASOPP). ASOPP provides an education pathway for individuals who have completed optometry training outside of North America and who want to obtain a license to practice in Canada. It helps internationally trained optometrists get licensed and begin practice in Canada.
Optometry Schools in Canada
The University of Waterloo’s School of Optometry and Vision Science is the only English language school to offer a Doctor of Optometry program in Canada.
Many immigrants pursue more education at optometry schools after arriving in Canada. Some want to continue their education to enhance their career options. For example, if you plan to work in private practice or co-own an optometry practice, additional business skills may be helpful. Learn more about higher education in Canada.
Other optometry schools offer pre-optometry degrees and diploma programs. They are:
Red Deer College
Dalhousie University
University of Regina
Douglas College
University of Alberta
Thompson Rivers University
Stenberg College
University of Winnipeg
Optometry Associations in Canada
The associations listed below provide information about licensure and certification and offer professional development, education, and networking opportunities.
National Optometry Associations
Canadian Association of Optometrists (CAO): The CAO is a national organization that works with ten provincial optometry associations. It is the national voice of optometry and represents the interests of 85% of s in Canada. CAO membership allows you to connect with colleagues through events, education, conferences, research, and networking.
Professional immigrant networks are organized, volunteer-run member-based associations or networks created by and for immigrant professionals that seek to:
Create a forum to contribute to and enrich their respective communities
Provide opportunities for their members to find and keep a job and achieve their professional goals.
These associations provide networking events, mentoring, information sessions, professional development, and connections to job opportunities. When joining a professional immigrant network, it can help you achieve job search and long-term career success.
Toronto Region Immigrant Employment Council (TRIEC): helps newcomers to expand their professional networks and understand the local labour market. For more information about working and living in Canada, visit our Finding a Job in Canada page. We’ll help you to achieve your goals in Canada!
How Much Do Optometrists Make in Canada?
The annual salary for an optometrist in Canada can range from $27,446 up to $167,858 or higher. The average annual salary is about $86,000 per year, according to the Government of Canada Job Bank.
The main factors affecting your earning potential are where you live, your experience, your specializations, and whether you own an optometry business or work for a company.
Optometrist Salary in Canada
Here are the most recent Optometrist salary numbers in Canada. Salary information is not available for all provinces :
Best Provinces to Work in Canada as an Optometrist Based on Salary & Lifestyle
Generally, optometry job prospects are positive in several provinces. Jobs are most commonly found in larger provinces such as British Columbia, Ontario, Alberta, and Quebec. Good prospects can be found in cities such as Calgary and Edmonton, Alberta, and many Ontario cities. When looking for jobs, broaden your geographic area to include smaller cities and towns outside of the large urban cities.
Before you choose a city to live in, research the demand for optometrists. And, once you have identified cities with strong demand, research those cities to see if they meet the personal and practical needs of you and your family.
Pursuing an Optometrist Career in Canada
In Canada, optometrists may work in private practices or the public healthcare system. New job openings in the sector will come mainly from opportunities that arise when practicing s retire or to a lesser degree, from employment increase.
Optometrists usually begin practice as an associate at one or more existing practices. New optometrists may even split their time between a few optometry clinics. Once established, many optometrists will purchase a practice on their own, with a partner, or with a group of partners. Some practices may even run an optical dispensary.
Major Employers for Optometry Jobs in Canada
There are a variety of potential employers in the optometry field. Many are in the private sector. Some of the biggest optical companies in Canada are:
Hakim Optical
Fyidoctors
LensCrafters
Pearl Vision,
How to Find Your First Canadian Optometrist Job
Job prospects for optometrists in Canada are good. So, there will be opportunities to pursue. It’s important to look for jobs in the region where you will settle. Therefore, take your time to research job requirements in that region and develop a plan for finding work.
Job Search Techniques for Optometrists
When looking for optometry jobs, you need to understand the specific requirements of the province where you will live. Use this information to establish a job search process that works for you. There are many ways to search for optometry jobs:
Broaden your search and include alternative careers and sectors.
Seek out a mentor in the optometry sector who would give you valuable insights and advice and probably introduce you to their professional network.
Join healthcare job-finding or networking clubs through settlement agencies.
Attend industry job fairs and regularly check online job boards.
Check university or optometry association job banks.
Consult Immigrant Settlement Agencies
Settlement agencies offer free services to help you find job vacancies, update your resume, write cover letters, prepare for interviews, and understand what Canadian employers are looking for. This can be very helpful since searching for an optometry job in Canada may be different than in your home country.
To find immigrant services in your area, click here.
Informational Interviews for Optometrists
An informational interview can help optometrist candidates learn specifics about working in the industry. An informational interview is a brief (20–30-minute) meeting that you schedule with a person who is currently working in the optometry field.
You should not try to get a job during an informational interview but rather use the opportunity to learn more about the profession in Canada. An informational interview with a contact from your network can be a great source of career information. In addition to gathering information about optometry in Canada, you’ll gain the added benefit of hearing first-hand about their professional experiences.
Networking to Build Your Optometry Career in Canada
Networking is an effective way to discover optometrist jobs in Canada.
A vital activity that can help you build your optometry career in Canada is networking. And effective networking is all about connecting with other professionals, building relationships, and sharing information. It offers many benefits that can help you to discover job leads, better understand the industry in Canada, and expand your optometry network.
In Canada, many job vacancies are found in the “hidden job market”. These are jobs that are filled even before they are advertised. Networking with practicing optometrists is a great way to learn about these jobs and give you a job search advantage.
Great places to network included optometry conferences and associations. In these settings, you’ll be surrounded by other optometrists who are likely eager to collaborate and connect with others who share a similar career path.
LinkedIn is another important networking tool. It’s helpful to connect with former colleagues and employers, search for jobs and learn about recent optometry research and industry news.
You can also join some related professional groups where you can learn more about the profession in Canada, make new contacts, and access important resources and job listings.
But remember, that you must allow time to cultivate and grow the ties you establish through networking. Nothing will happen overnight. True networking is about adding value to both parties and building and maintaining the relationship over time.
Writing Your Resume for Optometry Jobs in Canada
You need to have a polished resume to help you stand out from other applicants. Potential employers highly value clinical, or hands-on, experience, as well as research.
Here are some key elements that you can include on your resume:
Contact Information: Indicate how the hiring manager can contact you and include your name, city, telephone number, and email address.
Summary: Write three or four sentences that summarize your skills, and experience, and highlight what makes you an excellent candidate for the job. Customize the summary section based on the specific job requirements.
Professional Experience: List your relevant employment history and include bullet points to highlight your major accomplishments in each role. Stating accomplishments rather than listing your job responsibilities will help you to stand out among other candidates.
Where possible, quantify achievements such as the number of clients you had, treatment success rates, or patient satisfaction scores. List any volunteer work, internships, work placements or residencies that directly relate to the job that you are applying for. This important experience can illustrate your skills, experience, and knowledge.
Place any research experience such as glaucoma analysis on your resume. Research details will show employers that you have inquiry skills that can contribute to new processes and improved patient care.
Education and Professional Development: List the school(s) that you attended and include the major, and years attended. Include voluntary workshops or supplemental classes that are directly related to optometry.
Optometry Skills: List your technical skills (i.e., diagnostic testing, using specialized instruments and equipment) as well as your soft skills (i.e., patient counselling, strategic thinking, leadership). Review the optometry job requirements and skills found in the job posting and list the skills that you have.
Professional Licenses and Certifications: Identify current licenses and certifications.
When you reach the interview stage of the selection process, you need to prepare well for your optometry job interview. Your interview is your chance to show your potential employer that you have the right personality, qualifications, experience and proven track record for the role.
The hiring manager will ask you many questions. Some will be standard questions that you can expect to answer. But other questions may be unexpected. However, the more you prepare, the more confidence you will convey. So, prepare to answer questions related to the core competencies, skills, and job requirements.
Research your prospective employer before the interview. Go to their website to get general information about the size of the practice, the technical sophistication of the practice, specializations, and other details. Ask other optometrists in the community about the reputation, strengths, and weaknesses of the practice.
Some common interview questions that you can prepare to answer:
What made you interested in applying for this optometry job?
What are your strengths? Weaknesses?
How would your colleagues describe you?
Describe a new optometry skill that you recently learned. How did you go about learning and practicing the skill?
Thinking about your last job, what did you most enjoy doing? What type of work would you rather avoid?
Tell me about a time when you had to deal with an unreasonable patient. How did you handle the situation?
At the end of the interview, you’ll have an opportunity to ask the interviewer any questions that you have about the optometry career opportunity. So, prepare to ask questions to show that you have a genuine interest in the position.
With a positive outlook for Optometrist jobs in Canada, now is the time to check out your options. Interested in learning more about working in Canada? Check out our Finding a Job in Canada resource page. We can help you achieve your career goals in Canada.
The first 90 days in a new job in Canada is an important time to demonstrate to your manager that you have what it takes to achieve success in the role. In addition, some employers may state that you must complete a 90-day probationary period. With these tips for success in your first 90 days, you can be proactive and ensure that you meet and exceed their expectations. This information is vital, especially if this is your first job in Canada and you want to understand the Canadian workplace.
The First 90 Days in Your New Job in Canada: 10 Smart Tips for Success
During your first three months on the job, your new employer will assess your performance, skills, and abilities and determine if you are a good “fit” for the role and the organization. Your direct manager will also assess if you fit the organizational culture. However, it’s also a critical time for you to evaluate if you are happy with your job and employer. If you meet performance expectations within the first 90 days in your new job, and you are satisfied with the job, you can achieve long-term success with these tips.
1. Understand the Canadian Workplace
The workplace culture in Canada will vary for each company and industry. Do your best to make a great first impression and be open and friendly with your colleagues. Your workplace relationships in Canada are important and help to build trust among coworkers and other teams. A high-trust work environment contributes to workplace efficiency, productivity, and a positive work environment.
As a newcomer, you may think that you need to change your behaviour to fit into the Canadian workplace. And while you may find some of the workplace etiquette a little different, you’ll pick up the behaviours when you start working. Canadian employers value diversity in the workplace and recognize how it contributes to improved business outcomes.
2. Know the Company’s Core Values, Products, or Services
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You likely did a great deal of research on the company during the interview process. Now it’s time to expand on that knowledge from the inside of the company. This shows your Canadian employer that you are committed to not only your own success but also that of the organization. Sometimes new employees focus too much on their individual roles and responsibilities and lose sight of what the company is trying to achieve.
Many companies will host a new employee orientation. This orientation can vary in length from a half-day to a day-long session and usually takes place during your first week with the company. This is a great opportunity to learn more about the company’s culture, values, products and services, and key policies and processes. Examples of core policies include:
Business Code of Conduct
Diversity, inclusion, and equity in the workplace
Health & Safety.
A new employee orientation also serves to define the specific behaviours that will contribute to your success in your new job, for example:
Building relationships with others
Expressing ideas and sharing information clearly and concisely
Being open to different ideas and cultures
Generating ideas
Recognizing your personal strengths and pursuing self-development.
Finding a mentor to show you how things get done in the Canadian workplace is invaluable. Some companies may even assign someone on the team to help you succeed in your first 90 days in a new job. This can provide short and long-term benefits for your career success. With a mentor, you will have someone to go to with any questions which can help you to quickly achieve results.
You are new and as such, you get to ask all of the questions you want without judgment. This is the time to focus on learning every aspect of your job and aim to contribute as quickly as you can. The sooner that you can shed the appearance of being the new kid in class and graduate to a confident member of the team the better. Your manager and colleagues want to share their knowledge with you to help you succeed in your first 90 days in your new job.
5. Become a Collaborative Team Member in Your First 90 Days
Canadian employers place a high value on teamwork and collaboration to help them achieve their goals. This means fostering positive relationships and building networks. While you may want to complete your work with a minimal amount of socializing, it’s vital to build connections with your team to achieve results.
6. Get Your Name Out There
It’s important to introduce yourself to other colleagues within the first 90 days. Often called, “meet and greets”, these short 20 – 30 minute meetings allow you to meet others, learn about their roles, and how you can expect to work with them. This will give you an understanding of what others do so you’ll know who to speak to when you have a question. Initiating a “meet and greet” with the key people in your workplace will quickly help you to build relationships.
While it can feel awkward to introduce yourself and ask for help, stepping outside of your comfort zone will be vital to your success in your new job.
7.Be Socialand Positive
The lunch break is a great time to get to know your coworkers within your first 90 days. If everyone brings a lunch and hangs out together then follow suit. Or, join your team occasionally if they go out to eat lunch. You’ll get to explore the area around your office as you get to know your coworkers.
While all of this is good advice, you need to be on top of your game in your new job so you should allow yourself some time to acclimate to the new position and work environment. The important thing is to stay positive while you navigate your first 90 days in your new job.
8. Share Your New Ideas
As a new employee, you bring a fresh set of eyes and you may be able to see something that could improve how the team or company operates. Your input can generate ideas and innovation. However, you also want to avoid being critical. So be sure to convey a compelling message and rationale for providing your ideas.
9.Dress for the Job
Many companies in Canada have a “business casual” dress code.
If there is a dress code then you need to make sure that you adhere to it and that you are presentable. The dress code is something that you can learn more about in the employee orientation. However, you can also observe what others wear in your office. It is possible that the official dress code does not align exactly with what you are expected to wear. For example, your manager may dress more formally every day, especially if they are meeting with senior leaders or external clients. However, they may not expect you to dress formally. But, it’s important to find out how you are expected to dress to get it right.
In Canada, many companies have a business casual dress code. This means that men don’t have to wear a suit and tie, and women are not required to wear a structured blazer with a matching skirt or slacks. In some cases, the organization may allow you to wear denim. However, be sure to look presentable and avoid wearing distressed denim.
10. Go the Extra Mile
You would be amazed at how far a little extra effort can take you, especially in your first few weeks and months. Once you have established yourself as someone who gets things done you can look forward to a promising career beyond your first 90 days!
It’s an exciting time when you land your first job in Canada. But it can also be overwhelming when you want to exceed expectations. Recognizing the importance of your first three months in your new job, these tips will help you navigate the road to career success in Canada!
The Canadian construction industry and skilled trade companies are always on the lookout for workers. With many vacancies for construction jobs in Canada combined with a shortage of skilled trades workers, Canada is looking to newcomers to help fill this void. Currently, newcomers make up 16% of the construction workforce in Canada. Learn more about job requirements, credentials assessment, construction salaries, and free pre-arrival services to help you build your construction career.
Construction job requirements will vary based on the target occupation. For example, some trades and construction jobs in Canada are regulated in specific provinces while others are not. Currently, there are over 400 skilled trades in Canada. And about 20% of jobs are regulated. Jobs that are regulated require a license or certificate of qualification to practice to ensure the health and safety of all Canadians.
If your trade is regulated in the province or territory where you plan to settle, you may need to get a license from a regulatory body.
If you are a construction professional such as an architect, or an engineer, you must also meet professional licensing requirements. Or, you may work in a specific functional area such as Human Resources, Finance, or IT, and would like to make a career switch to the construction industry. In that case, it’s important to explore the licensing requirements of those professions.
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Now is a great time to join Canada’s construction industry. And, if you have the right skills and experience, you’ll find great jobs in cities across Canada.
How to Immigrate to Canada as a Construction Professional in the Skilled Trades
Before You Move to Canada to Pursue a Construction Career
For newcomers, it’s important to understand the what’s happening in the construction before moving to Canada. There are steps that you can take before you arrive to improve your chances of working in Canada’s construction industry:
Learn about the construction industry in the local area where you will land or live in Canada
When researching Canada’s construction industry, consider these questions to guide you:
Do Canadian construction employers value my skills, education, and work experience?
What construction professions are in-demand and are there regional differences?
Is my education equivalent to Canadian standards? Do I need to get my education assessed?
Is my profession or skilled trade regulated or unregulated and how does this impact me?
Will my professional licence (credential) be recognized?
What wages can I expect to earn in the province or territory that I’m heading to?
What to Expect When Pursuing a Construction Career in Canada
Before you even arrive in Canada, you need to know the job requirements so that you’ll be in an advantageous position to land a job that matches your skills and experience. It’s also important to know where the jobs are because labour market conditions can vary across the country.
With over 400 skilled trades jobs and other licensed professions, it can be difficult to know where to begin. Pre-arrival services can help you find your way. BCCA-Integrating Newcomers (BCCA-IN) offers free pre-arrival services to people who would like to join Canada’s construction workforce. They know the construction industry and can help you to:
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Build local connections
Work with the right credential authorities
Connect with construction associations and employers in different regions in Canada.
Employment Outlook for Skilled Trades and Construction Jobs in Canada
Canada is facing a labour shortage in the construction industry. This is largely due to the number of construction projects in progress, as well as a shrinking labour force. As Canada’s workforce ages, employers now need to replace employees who are retiring and will look to labour from around the world to meet the demand. And the industry can offer a diverse and rewarding construction career in Canada.
Immigration will help to meet the increasing labour needs. The construction industry is working to create greater equality and diversity among its workforce by recruiting groups such as women, Indigenous Peoples, and newcomers.
Demand for construction trades is likely to remain high. According to BuildForce Canada, the industry needs to recruit 309,000 new construction workers over the next decade (2021 – 2030), driven by the expected retirement of 259,100 workers (or 22% of the current workforce).
Many employers accept applications from experienced tradespeople from around the world. But the outlook for construction jobs varies depending on the province or territory, and the trades or professions that are in demand. Some provinces facing the greatest labour shortages include Ontario, British Columbia, Nova Scotia, and Alberta.
What Kinds of Construction Jobs are Available in Canada?
The construction industry provides high-paying jobs for tradespeople, licensed professionals, and business function professionals. With experience in the following areas, you can build a great career in Canada:
Business Consultant HR IT Sales/Marketing Finance Logistics Supply Chain Operations…
Construction is a multi-billion-dollar industry in Canada that offers careers that are in high demand.
Requirements for Working in Construction in Canada
Internationally trained construction workers must meet the licensing requirements in Canada to practice (if applicable to the role). But there are many entry-level construction jobs that require little to no experience. If you are an experienced construction worker, you could qualify for higher-level roles, depending on the trade.
Construction companies will look for newcomers with the ability to write, read, listen, communicate, and speak English (or French if you plan to live in Quebec).
Language Training for Construction Jobs in Canada
You may have strong technical skills, but you may need to upgrade your communication skills. Strong skills in one or both of Canada’s official languages, English or French – are important for your future in Canada. Whether you choose to focus on learning or improving English or French will depend on which of the two languages most people speak in the area where you intend to live.
You may be eligible for Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) program. Otherwise, you can find free or affordable classes in English as a Second Language (ESL) or French as a Second Language (FSL) classes through school boards or settlement agencies.
There are even language courses to teach you professional terminologies, such as job-specific language training and Occupation Specific Language Training (OSLT) in Ontario. And, if you already speak one of Canada’s two official languages at a high level, learning the other one is a good option, as it may offer you better job opportunities.
Skilled Trade and Construction Schools in Canada
There are many trade and construction schools in Canada. And, continuing your education when you move to Canada can help you to advance your construction career. Most diploma and certificate programs are offered at the college level.
Below is a list of construction schools across Canada.
Provincial and Territorial Construction and Trades Regulatory Bodies
Most trades are regulated by provincial or territorial agencies. For more information about certificates of qualification for specific trades, click on the link for the province or territory where you plan to settle.
There is a wide salary range for construction jobs in Canada. Your salary is based on your experience, specialized skills, trade, and location. It’s important to consider both the provincial and regional labour market conditions for your specific trade. Construction job salaries typically range from $15 to $35 per hour. The average hourly rate is $21 per hour. The average annual salary range for workers based on a 40-hour work week is $43,680. The highest annual salary tops out at about $72,800.
Note: Salary numbers are for construction labourer jobs. Construction professionals with specialized skills have the potential to make a high yearly salary.
Construction Salary and Wages in Canada
It’s important to research trades that are most in demand in Canada. It’s also good to know what skills, licenses, and certificates you require to practice your trade. You can browse jobs here to get an idea of the skills employers are seeking.
To get an idea of pay, here are the 2022 pay scales for different trades in Canada. The figures provided are based on 2022 national averages. Wages will vary based on the province and region.
2022 national average wages for some of the well-paying trades jobs in Canada. Source Government of Canada Job Bank.
Best Provinces to Work in Construction Jobs
Available construction jobs in Canada are relative to the size of the population. So, you can expect to find more construction jobs where there are more people. For example, Ontario, Canada’s second largest province geographically represents about 37.5% of construction employment in Canada. British Columbia represents 16.7% of construction activity, while Alberta, represents 15% of construction activity. (Source: BuildForce Canada)
Before deciding where you want to settle in Canada, research where there is a high demand for your specific job that will allow you to build your construction career.
Click on Job Prospects links to learn about wages, job outlook, and requirements for construction jobs that are in demand in Canada.
Research job prospects by province and by local economic regions. Source: Job Bank Canada
How Big is the Construction Industry in Canada?
Whether it’s building new hospitals, schools, skyscrapers, or new homes, there has never been a more exciting time to join Canada’s construction industry! According to the Canadian Construction Association, the industry employs more than 1.4 million people and about 7% of Canada’s workforce. It is one of the leading sources of employment in Canada. The industry has two primary sectors: residential and non-residential construction sector.
Residential Construction Sector
Canada’s construction industry employs more than 1.4 million people in the residential and non-residential construction sectors.
Work in the residential sector includes both new home building and home renovation. Employers in residential construction are usually:
New home builders and renovation contractors hire tradespeople on staff.
Trade contractors that specialize in a specific area such as plumbing contractors or heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) contractors.
There are many opportunities in residential construction across Canada. But some regions are more active than others. So, it’s vital to research job demand at the national, provincial, and local levels. BCCA-IN can help you connect with construction associations and employers across Canada.
Non-residential Construction Sector (institutional, industrial, commercial, and engineering)
Within the non-residential construction sector, there is also high demand. For example, there are large, resource-based construction projects underway across the country. The table below outlines examples of projects in several provinces:
Alberta
British Columbia
New Brunswick
Ontario
Manitoba
Wind and gas-fired utilities
Liquified natural gas facilities and natural gas plans
Oil refinery (capital & maintenance)
Nuclear refurbishments, hydro, wind and solar utilities
Hydro development projects
Transmission lines
Hydro and wind utilities
Utilities – water treatment and dam replacement
Transmission lines
Transmission line
Examples of Industrial Construction Projects in Canada
Major Employers for Skilled Trade and Construction Jobs in Canada
While Canada has many large construction companies such as PCL and Aecon, according to the Canadian Construction Association, 70% of the industry is small (fewer than five employees) to medium-sized companies. With a growing industry, starting your construction career with a small company can allow you progression opportunities and higher earning potential as the company grows.
How to Work in Your Trade in Canada
Construction has many regulated trades and professions. BCCA-IN can help you determine if your job is regulated and connect you with the right credential authority to get your career off to a great start.
To meet labour shortages, Canada will rely on tradespeople with experience from other countries. If you have trade experience, you may need to have your work experience or training assessed to receive certification. Each province and territory have its own certification requirements.
With trade experience from another country, you can complete a Trade Equivalency Assessment. This assessment shows you:
Past training
Work experience
Level of education
Level of language ability.
And, based on your previous work experience you may be qualified to write the Certificate of Qualification exam. This exam tests your knowledge, competence, and ability to perform important tasks in your trade.
How to Find Your First Construction Jobin Canada
The Canadian job market is competitive, so you will need to prepare to find a job. It’s important to research available construction jobs in Canada by province and region and develop a plan to find work.
There are many ways to search for jobs including:
Broadening your search and including alternative careers.
Seeking a mentor who could give you insight into Canada’s construction industry and introduce you to their network.
Joining job-finding or networking clubs through immigrant-serving agencies.Attending construction job fairs and regularly checking online job boards.
Finding a job in Canada may be different than in your home country and you may need help with your job search. Most settlement agencies offer free services to help you:
Find job vacancies
Update your resume
Write cover letters
Prepare for interviews, and
Understand what Canadian employers are looking for.
Find out more about the free services that settlement agencies offer to newcomers here.
Go on Informational Interviews with Construction Professionals
An informational interview is a brief (20–30-minute) meeting that you schedule with a person who is currently working in the construction industry. The purpose of an informational interview is to find out more about the construction industry in Canada, as opposed to trying to get a job. For example, you may want to learn more about trends, and regulatory, or technological changes that are affecting the field.
An informational interview with a contact from your network can be an excellent source of career information. In addition to getting information about the industry, you can benefit from their first-hand experiences working in the field in Canada.
Network to Find Construction Jobs
Networking is a vital activity to help you find job leads, gain professional advice, and expand your network. In Canada, many job vacancies are not advertised. Also known as the “hidden” job market, you can discover these jobs through networking with others. So, it’s helpful to connect and build relationships with others in your field who can help you discover these jobs. Good places to network include conferences, associations, and other settings.
LinkedIn is another vital tool for networking. Using LinkedIn, you can connect with former colleagues and employers, search for jobs, and get introductions to others. You can also join some relevant groups to learn more about the construction industry in Canada.
But remember, that you have to allow time to cultivate and grow the ties you establish through networking. Nothing will happen overnight and you need to be patient.
With a positive outlook for construction jobs in Canada, now is the time to check out your options. Interested in learning more about working in Canada? Check out our Finding a Job in Canada resource page. We can help you achieve your career goals in Canada.
To access free health care, you need to apply for a provincial health card. Once you are approved, you will receive your provincial health card. The health card proves that you are covered by a provincial health care program. You will have to show your health card each time you visit a doctor or receive any medical care.
You can get an application form from:
A doctor’s office
A hospital
A pharmacy
A settlement service agency.
Or, you can apply online (see section below: Provincial and Territorial Health Care Programs in Canada).
Canada has a great healthcare system that is coveted by many countries around the world. As a permanent resident, you can access many medical services that Canadians enjoy without large medical bills.
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Access to free healthcare is a privilege Canadians are proud of and celebrate. And if you’re moving to Canada, here are some important things to know about how to access free health care and the medical system. As a newcomer, knowing how to get free medical care when you’re sick, or have an accident can save you from worry and out-of-pocket expenses.
In Canada, public healthcare is paid for through tax money. Basic health care services, like hospital visits and medical treatment, are free. All Canadian citizens and permanent residents may apply for public health insurance. This insurance can save you money and provide you and your family peace of mind.
When to Appy for Free Healthcare?
You should apply for health care coverage soon after you land in Canada. Unfortunately, you cannot apply for health care coverage before you arrive in Canada.
In some provinces, you may have to wait up to three months to be eligible for a government health card. This waiting period applies to permanent residents in:
Province
Waiting Period
British Columbia
Coverage begins three months after your arrival date
Manitoba
Coverage begins on the first day of the third month after arrival
New Brunswick
Coverage begins after you submit your application form
Northwest Territories
Coverage begins when your application is approved
Quebec
Waiting period of up to three months
Saskatchewan
Coverage begins within six to eight weeks of your application date
Yukon
Coverage begins after three months
To protect yourself during this waiting period, you can buy private insurance to cover you and your family from unexpected healthcare costs.
The free healthcare that Canadian citizens and permanent residents enjoy gives you access to basic medical services. But, not everything is covered. So, it’s important to think about:
What coverage do you need if you land in any of the provinces with waiting periods (British Columbia, New Brunswick) to protect you during that time?
2. The health care needs of you and your family (for example, do any family members have health issues that have costs that aren’t covered?)
3. Do you require supplemental (or extra) private insurance to meet your health care needs (for example, do any family members have extensive health care needs?)
Your employer may offer a health care benefits package. Many immigrants to Canada are unaware that most companies offer their employees benefits. A benefits package will cover some, or all of the costs for dental, medications, and other services not covered by a government healthcare program.
Canadians in every province can purchase additional private travel medical health insurance to cover services not covered by a government health care program, or an employer’s health care benefits program.
Watch the video for an overview of the importance of travel medical health insurance for newcomers.
What Do Provincial and Territorial Healthcare Programs Cover?
Each provincial health care program may provide slightly different coverage, so find out what is covered in the province where you live. In general, government health care programs cover things such as:
Appointments with your family doctor
Visits to walk-in clinics and some other healthcare providers
Visits to an emergency room
Medical tests and surgeries
Necessary surgery
Laboratory and other diagnostic procedures
Some examples of the hospital and medical services not covered by provincial healthcare programs include:
Most prescription drugs
Dental services
Eye exams and eyewear, like glasses or contacts
Appliances such as hearing aids, crutches, wheelchairs
Visits to physiotherapists, chiropractors, or similar health providers
Ambulance service
What If You Lose Your Health Card?
If you lose your health care card, contact the provincial health ministry to replace your card as soon as possible. You may have to pay a small replacement fee.
It’s a good idea to carry your health card in your wallet at all times in case of a medical emergency. In an emergency, hospitals will treat you without seeing your card first but, you will have to show your card later if you want the province to cover your hospital bills.
What Documents Do You Need to Apply for a Health Card to Access free Healthcare?
To apply for a provincial health card, you’ll require identification to prove your Canadian citizenship or eligible immigration status. So, you’ll need your:
Birth certificate
Passport
PR card or Confirmation of Permanent Residence
It’s best to confirm what documents you’ll need with the provincial or territorial health care program where you plan to live.
Finding a Family Doctor
Most Canadians have a family doctor or “GP” (general practitioner), so once you have coverage, you will want to find a GP. Your GP will be your first contact with the healthcare system. With the current shortage of healthcare professionals, it can take some time to find a family doctor.
To find a family doctor:
Ask a friend or family member if their doctor is accepting new patients.
Check with the province’s College of Physicians and Surgeons. They will have a list of doctors accepting patients.
Doctors generally control or direct their patients’ access to most healthcare specialists, as well as to hospital beds.
Your family doctor will:
Decide which diagnostic tests you will need and generally makes the appointments for these tests.
Prescribe any necessary medications that you can pick up at a pharmacy of your choice.
If you have a medical emergency, go to the emergency room at the nearest hospital. For non-emergencies, you can schedule an appointment with your family doctor to get treatment or a referral to a health care specialist.
What to Know About Travelling with Prescription Medication
You can bring a 90-day supply of any prescription medication that you currently take to continue your treatment. However, you must:
Carry the medication in the original hospital or pharmacy packaging
2. Have the original label on the packaging to show what the health product is and what it contains
3. Have a valid expiration date (for example: within 90 days of your arrival).
When you know how to access health care, you and your family can rest easy knowing that you are protected both medically and financially when you arrive in Canada.
Accessing Free Healthcare in Provinces and Territories in Canada
Click on the province or territory where you plan to live to learn how to apply for a government health card and access free health care.
For helpful information about living and working in Canada, check out our free webinars and settle in Canada with ease!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it easy to apply for government health coverage? How long does it take to get a health card?
When you land you will receive an envelope containing the forms you need to fill out for your Permanent Resident (PR) Card – i.e. the Permanent Resident card as well as your Health coverage card. Health services are provided by the provinces and territories, and each has different rules to access services.
In British Columbia your health care coverage does not start for 180 days so do get health insurance for you and your family as it can be expensive paying for services privately. If you are landing in another Province than those we spoke of, you can expect
I am confused about the healthcare system, having just come here a few months ago. Can you explain the system to me?
As a newcomer, it may take from six to 12 weeks to get medical coverage in several provinces, so private coverage is critical during this period.
Most Canadians have a family doctor or “GP” (general practitioner), so once you have coverage, you will want to get a GP. Your GP (or primary care physician), will be your first contact with the formal healthcare system. Here are some tips on finding a GP.
Ask a friend or family member if their doctor is accepting new patients.
Check with the province’s College of Physicians and Surgeons. They will have a list of doctors accepting patients.
Doctors generally control or direct their patients’ access to most healthcare specialists, as well as to hospital beds. It is also your doctor who decides which diagnostic tests you will need and generally makes the appointments for these tests. Your doctor will also prescribe any necessary medications, which you will then pick up at a pharmacy of your choice.
In other words, with the exception of a medical emergency — in which case you head for the emergency room at your nearest hospital — you will need to visit your primary care physician to obtain treatment or a referral for treatment for any kind of illness or medical problem.
I’m unclear on what is free in Canada’s health care system and what isn’t. Can you explain what the different costs are?
Under Canada’s health care system, all medically necessary hospital stays, including those needed for treatment of an illness or surgical and maternity services (such as childbirth, prenatal, post-natal, and newborn care, and treatment of complications surrounding a pregnancy) are covered, as are the prescription drugs while in hospital.
You will also not be asked to pay the clinic, hospital, or physician directly, and there are no deductibles or fees levied on any specific insured service. However, there are some services that are only partially covered, depending on the province, and therefore require a fee for service from the patient. And there are some “uninsured” services, meaning they are not covered at all.
Some examples of services not covered by any plan in Canada include:
medical examinations requested by third parties (such as for employment, insurance, or driver’s licence)
cosmetic surgery that is not medically necessary
dental care
vision care
limb prostheses
wheelchairs
prescription medication
podiatry and chiropractics.
With the exception of the Yukon Territory, ambulance service in Canada is generally not fully covered by the health insurance plans of any province or territory. The only exceptions are when it is necessary to transfer a patient from one hospital to another. Some provinces have capped the costs of an ambulance ride, but in other provinces, ambulance service can be very expensive.
Certain groups of the population, however, such as people over the age of 65, children, and those on social assistance, may be able to obtain these extended health services through a Pharmacare program provided by their province.
Canadians in every province, however, can purchase private extended health insurance to cover some of these uninsured health services not included in the national health care plan. Some employers also provide extended healthcare benefits to their employees to cover some of these costs.
Learn more about Canada’s Health Care System:
Can I bring my prescription medicines to Canada?
Keep prescription medicines in the original container with a label that indicates the name of the drug.
This is a common and important question. The short answer is yes, you can bring prescription medicine to Canada. This will allow you to continue the medical treatment that you are currently following. But, be sure to follow guidelines defined by Health Canada related to prescription medicines.
You can bring medication that is prescribed to you or anyone that you’re responsible for who is coming to Canada with you.
You can bring:
a single course of treatment, OR
a 90-day supply (whichever is less).
Once in Canada, you will need to visit a Canadian doctor to refill or get a new prescription. You cannot use a foreign prescription in Canada. You cannot import prescription medicine by mail or courier.
If you’re travelling to Canada, be sure to download our essential checklists and remember to bring your important medical documents.
Tips:
Pack your medications (prescriptions and essential over-the-counter (OTC) drugs in your carry-on baggage to avoid theft or loss. This includes any medical equipment such as syringes, needles, inhalers, etc.
Keep prescription medicines in the original container with a label that indicates what the drug is. Do not put medications in unmarked containers.
Be prepared to answer questions about your medications at the airport and border crossings. You do not require information from your doctor about your medical condition, but it may be helpful.
