Immigrating to Canada as a Teacher: Everything You Need to Know

Canada has a very good education system. The schools have nice buildings and equipment, and they teach a lot of important things. The teachers are also very good, and they are always willing to help students learn.

This reputation has made teaching positions in Canada not only respected but also highly coveted, offering competitive salaries and a host of benefits. Nevertheless, many Canadian provinces and territories grapple with a shortage of qualified teachers, which has created a growing demand for international educators.

If you are a teacher with qualifications from abroad or you have several years of teaching experience in your home country, Canada presents a wealth of opportunities.

In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the immigration pathways available to teachers, the provincial teaching certification process, and the in-demand teaching positions across Canada.

What are Teaching jobs in Canada for immigrants

Teaching jobs in Canada for immigrants can be well-paying opportunities. To secure one, you’ll need the right qualifications, such as a teaching degree. Make sure your qualifications are recognized by Canadian authorities.

Keep an eye out for high-paying teaching job openings in Canadian schools, and ensure you meet their requirements. Securing a teaching job in Canada as an immigrant can lead to a good income, but it’s crucial to meet both job and immigration criteria.

Here’s a list of teaching jobs in Canada for immigrants that can offer good pay:

1. University Professor
2. Medical School Instructor
3. Law School Teacher
4. Engineering Professor
5. Business School Lecturer
6. Computer Science Tutor
7. Specialized Language Teacher (like Mandarin, Arabic, or Japanese)
8. STEM Educator (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math)
9. School Principal or Administrator
10. Private Tutor or Test Prep Coach

These jobs can be well-paying, but it’s important to meet the specific requirements and explore opportunities in different Canadian regions.

What are Teachers Salaries in Canada

Teaching is a highly compensated profession in Canada. Average salaries for teachers differ based on the province, teaching level, and years of experience.

Additionally, salaries in the territories tend to be higher to offset the higher cost of living. Here’s an overview of teacher salaries in Canada:

1. Elementary and Kindergarten Teachers (NOC 41221) • Hourly earnings range from $24.04 to $52.75.
   • Median salaries are approximately $43.75 in Ontario, $36.20 in British Columbia, and $55.48 in Nunavut.
2. High School or Secondary School Teachers (NOC 41220) • Hourly earnings range from $26.92 to $53.85.
   • Median hourly pay is about $47.12 in Ontario, $38.46 in B.C., and $55.43 in Nunavut.
3. College and Vocational Teachers (NOC 41210) • Hourly earnings range from $18.19 to $58.53.
   • Median hourly salaries are $36.54 in Ontario, $42.31 in B.C., and $62.05 in Nunavut.
4. University Professors or Lecturers (NOC 41200) • Hourly earnings range from $24.62 to $76.92.
   • Median hourly salary is approximately $56.56 in Ontario and around $43.27 in B.C.
5. School Principals and Administrators (NOC 40021) • Hourly earnings range from $33.46 to $64.84.
   • Median hourly wage is $51.92 in Ontario, $48.08 in B.C., and $54.09 in Alberta.

Why Canada is a Place Every Foreigners Want to Migrate to as a Teacher ?

Teachers from around the world are increasingly considering Canada as a destination for a better quality of life and more lucrative career prospects. Here are some compelling reasons why Canada stands out for educators:

For your comprehensive knowledge of the local job market in your selected province or territory, we’ve crafted a series of articles spotlighting the most sought-after careers by region:

Top in-demand jobs in Ontario for newcomers

1. Canada have Shortage of Skilled Teachers at All Levels of Education

Whether you specialize in teaching kindergarten students or university scholars, Canada offers opportunities at all education levels.

The need for qualified teachers and substitute teaching staff is particularly acute in provinces such as British Columbia (B.C.), Ontario, Saskatchewan, and Alberta.

2. Teachers are Mostly Needed in Canada: High Vacancy rates

Across most Canadian provinces, teaching is in high demand. Given the shortage of domestically trained teachers to meet local labor market needs, provinces often welcome internationally qualified teachers as permanent residents. This demand ensures that newcomers with teaching qualifications can find employment in Canada shortly after their arrival.

3. Teachers earn higher salaries in Canada compared to other countries

According to 2021 OECD data, Canada ranks third in the world for salaries of experienced primary and secondary school teachers, following only Luxembourg and Germany. While average salaries may vary based on the province, teaching level, and years of experience, most international teachers in Canada earn more than they did in their home countries.

4. Immigration Programs are Available for Internationally-Qualified Teachers

Canada recognizes the value of skilled educators and offers several immigration programs for teachers to attain permanent residency. Here are the primary pathways:

5. Federal Skilled Worker (FSW) Program is Available for Foreign Teachers

The FSW Express Entry program is a popular choice for skilled professionals.

Candidates are selected for permanent residency based on their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, which considers factors like age, education, work experience, language proficiency, and more.

Read Also: How to move to Canada and get permanent residence (PR) – Full Guild

While there are no specific bonus points for being a teacher under this program, an Invitation to Apply (ITA) offers the flexibility to choose your province or territory of residence.

6. Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) Look for Foreign Teachers

Many provinces in Canada have their own PNP programs to nominate candidates that best align with their labor market needs.

Some provinces specifically look for teachers based on their National Occupation Classification (NOC) codes.

PNP streams and draws for teachers vary by province and may include:

• Alberta Express Entry Stream
• Skilled Worker streams in British Columbia, Manitoba, and Nova Scotia
• New Brunswick Express Entry
• Human Capital Priorities and French-Speaking Skilled Worker streams in Ontario
• Occupation In-demand and Saskatchewan Express Entry streams in Saskatchewan
• NL Express Entry Skilled Worker in Newfoundland and Labrador
• Skilled Workers Outside Canada and PEI Express Entry in Prince Edward Island

7. Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)

The AIP is a federal program designed for skilled foreign workers and international students who studied in Canada.

While it doesn’t specifically prioritize teachers, you can qualify if you have at least 1,560 hours of paid employment in the last five years and meet language requirements.

It’s important to note that a job offer from an Atlantic Canada employer is a requirement, and obtaining a provincial teaching certificate is crucial for securing a teaching position in the region.

Steps to Work as a Teacher in Canada

Before embarking on your teaching career in Canada, there are certain prerequisites to fulfill, although these requirements may vary slightly by province. However, the following steps generally apply to most parts of the country:

1. You will Need Educational Credentials Assessment (ECA)

If your academic qualifications were obtained outside Canada, you’ll need an ECA to evaluate your foreign degrees or diplomas to ensure they are equivalent to Canadian standards.

The requirements for teaching positions vary; for instance, kindergarten and elementary school teachers typically need undergraduate or bachelor’s degrees in education and child development.

Teaching at the secondary school level often requires an undergraduate or bachelor’s degree in education and expertise in the subject matter.

2. You Also Need Provincial Teaching Certificate and License

Teaching is a regulated profession in Canada, and you must be licensed by the province or territory where you intend to teach. You can start the certification process before your arrival in Canada, but keep in mind that it may take some time to complete.

Generally, you’ll need to submit academic transcripts, a teaching certificate from your home country, and a statement of professional standing as part of your certification application. Once approved, you will receive a Certificate of Qualification or a teaching certificate.

3. Prove Your Good Moral Character

Most provinces and territories will require evidence of good moral character before granting a teaching certificate. This may involve character references and criminal background check records from your home country or other regions where you previously worked or lived. In some cases, completing a sæxũa! abuse prevention program may also be necessary.

4. Language Proficiency in English and/or French

Proficiency in the English language is typically required in most provinces and territories, except for Quebec. You will need to provide language test results, such as IELTS or CELPIP, to demonstrate your English language proficiency.

The minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) score required may vary by province. If you intend to teach in Quebec or a Francophone school in another province, proficiency in both English and French is essential.

5. Teaching Experience and Familiarity with Canadian Curriculum

While recent teaching experience is not always mandatory for obtaining a provincial teaching certificate, it can be an advantage when applying for teaching positions.

Most provinces and territories also consider your familiarity with Canadian culture and curriculum. If your home country’s education system significantly differs from that in your Canadian province or territory, you may need additional training.

This program can take up to one year and usually includes education-related courses and supervised practicum.

Most Demanded Teaching Positions Across Canada

The demand for teachers varies by province, and different teaching roles are in high demand. Based on recent data from various provincial and territorial sources, the following teaching positions are currently sought after in Canada:

1. British Columbia (B.C.) • University professors and lecturers (NOC 41200)
   • Colleges and vocational teachers (NOC 41210)
   • Early childhood educators (NOC 42202)
2. Quebec • University professors and lecturers (NOC 41200)
   • College and vocational teachers (NOC 41210)
   • Post-graduate teaching assistants (NOC 41201)
   • High school or secondary school teachers (NOC 41220)
   • Elementary and Kindergarten teachers (NOC 41221)
3. Alberta • University professors and lecturers (NOC 41200)
4. Nova Scotia • Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202)
5. New Brunswick • University professors and lecturers (NOC 41200)
6. Newfoundland and Labrador • University professors and lecturers (NOC 41200)
   • High school or secondary school teachers (NOC 41220)
7. Prince Edward Island • University professors and lecturers (NOC 41200)

Please note that labor market needs can change over time, and teaching positions that are in demand may vary.

Do You Consider Teaching in Canada?

For teachers, Canada is a land of opportunity, particularly in provinces with a high demand for educators.

The country’s immigration programs offer an exciting path for international teachers to settle in Canada permanently.

Here are other Available teaching jobs in Canada you can find:

Elementary School Teacher:

These teachers work with students in kindergarten through grade 6, covering a range of subjects and providing a solid foundation for their education.

Secondary School Teacher

Also known as high school teachers, they teach students in grades 7-12, specializing in subjects like math, science, language arts, and social studies.

Special Education Teacher:

Special education teachers work with students who have disabilities, adapting teaching methods to meet individual needs.

ESL (English as a Second Language) Teacher:

These teachers help non-native English speakers improve their language skills, often working with immigrants, refugees, or international students.

College and University Professors:

At the post-secondary level, educators teach specialized subjects to college or university students. They may also conduct research.

Adult Education Instructors: These instructors teach adults who are returning to school for further education, job training, or personal development.

Online Educators: With the growth of online education, many teachers now work remotely, delivering lessons via the internet, often in areas like online tutoring, course development, or virtual classroom teaching.

Substitute Teachers: Substitutes fill in for teachers who are absent due to illness or other reasons, often working on short notice.

Early Childhood Educators (ECEs): ECEs work in preschools and daycare centers, focusing on early childhood development and education.

Vocational and Technical Instructors: These teachers specialize in subjects related to trade skills, preparing students for careers in fields like auto mechanics, welding, or culinary arts.

Adult Literacy and GED Instructors: They work with adults who need help with basic literacy skills or want to earn their General Educational Development (GED) certificate.

Outdoor Education Instructors: In Canada’s beautiful natural landscapes, these educators teach students about ecology, outdoor survival, and environmental conservation.

Art, Music, and Physical Education Teachers: These specialized teachers focus on artistic, musical, or physical development, often in elementary and secondary schools.

Private and International School Teachers: Canada has many private and international schools, offering opportunities to teach diverse curricula and work with students from various cultural backgrounds.

Indigenous Language Instructors: In Indigenous communities, there’s a need for instructors to preserve and pass down traditional languages and cultural knowledge.

Canadian Teacher immigration requirements

Becoming a teacher in Canada requires meeting certain immigration requirements. To get started, you need to have a bachelor’s degree in education or a related field. Additionally, you’ll typically need to prove your proficiency in English or French, which are the two official languages of Canada.

What are the Immigration Requirements as a Teacher in Canada

1. Educational Qualifications:

The first step in your Canadian teaching journey is ensuring you meet the educational requirements. You must have completed a post-secondary program in education, which typically includes a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) or an equivalent degree. Your qualifications should match the Canadian standards for teaching.

2. Teaching License:

In Canada, teaching is regulated by each province or territory. You’ll need to obtain a teaching license specific to the province or territory where you intend to work. This may require additional assessments or exams.

3. Language Proficiency:

English and French are the official languages of Canada. Depending on your chosen province, you may need to demonstrate proficiency in either English or French through language tests like IELTS or TEF.

4. Work Experience:

Many Canadian immigration programs require candidates to have some teaching experience. Accumulating a few years of teaching experience will improve your chances of qualifying for immigration.

5. Express Entry System to migrate to Canada as a teacher in Canada

Now, let’s dive into the coveted “express entry” system. Express Entry is a point-based immigration system that fast-tracks the immigration process for skilled workers, including teachers. Your age, education, work experience, and language skills are some of the factors that contribute to your overall score. The higher your score, the more likely you are to receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency.

6. Documentation:

To apply for Express Entry, you’ll need to provide essential documents, such as educational credentials, language test results, and proof of work experience. Ensure that your documents are accurate and up to date.

7. Criminal and Medical Checks:

As part of the immigration process, you’ll need to undergo criminal and medical checks to ensure you are admissible to Canada.

8. Job Offer in Canada :

While it’s not always necessary, having a job offer from a Canadian employer can significantly boost your Express Entry profile. Job offers award extra points and make you more attractive to immigration officials.

9. Points for Provincial Nomination:

Many provinces have their own immigration programs that nominate candidates for Express Entry. If you receive a Provincial Nomination, you’ll gain additional points in the Express Entry system.

Express Entry and Canadian Teacher Immigration Requirements

The “express entry” system is the key to a faster immigration process for teachers. By understanding and meeting the “Canadian teacher immigration requirements,” you can maximize your chances of success in the Express Entry program. This not only expedites your immigration but also paves the way for a rewarding teaching career in Canada, where opportunities are abundant and compensation is competitive.

In conclusion, becoming a Canadian teacher is a journey that starts with meeting the necessary requirements and leveraging the “express entry” system. If you’re passionate about education and eager to embark on a new adventure in Canada, this guide has provided you with the basics to get started on your path to success. Good luck on your teaching adventure in the Great White North!