Canada is one of the top destinations for healthcare professionals seeking rewarding careers abroad. Among the most in-demand professionals in the healthcare sector are physiotherapists. With a rapidly aging population, a growing awareness of physical health, and a strong public health system, physiotherapy jobs in Canada are not only plentiful but also offer attractive benefits such as visa sponsorship and relocation assistance for qualified foreign workers.
In this blog post, we will cover everything you need to know about securing a physiotherapy job in Canada with relocation support, including eligibility, licensing, top employers, and tips to boost your chances of landing the job.
Why Choose Canada for Physiotherapy Jobs?
Canada offers a stable work environment, high-quality healthcare infrastructure, and competitive salaries for healthcare professionals. Here are a few reasons why physiotherapists around the world are choosing to move to Canada:
- High demand for physiotherapists due to aging demographics
- Competitive salaries and job security
- Opportunities in both urban and rural areas
- Relocation and visa sponsorship programs through employers
- Access to permanent residency and long-term settlement options
In-Demand Provinces for Physiotherapists
The demand for physiotherapists varies across provinces, with the following provinces showing the highest need:
- Ontario
- British Columbia
- Alberta
- Nova Scotia
- Saskatchewan
Each province has its own healthcare infrastructure and may offer different levels of support for foreign-trained professionals.
Licensing Requirements for Foreign Physiotherapists in Canada
Before practicing as a physiotherapist in Canada, foreign applicants must meet licensing and regulatory requirements. The following steps are essential:
1. Credential Recognition
- Apply to the Canadian Alliance of Physiotherapy Regulators (CAPR) for credential assessment.
- You must have a recognized degree in physiotherapy from your home country.
2. Written and Clinical Exams
- After successful assessment, you must pass the Physiotherapy Competency Examination (PCE), which includes:
- A written multiple-choice exam
- A clinical OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination)
3. Apply for Licensure
- Once certified by CAPR, apply to the physiotherapy regulatory college in the province where you intend to work.
4. Language Proficiency
- Proof of English or French proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or CELPIP) is typically required.
Visa and Immigration Pathways
Several immigration programs in Canada support healthcare professionals with job offers and relocation support:
1. Express Entry (Federal Skilled Worker Program)
- Physiotherapists are classified under NOC code 31202 and are eligible for Express Entry.
- A job offer can increase your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score significantly.
2. Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
- Some provinces have streams targeting healthcare professionals, especially when you have a job offer.
- Examples: Ontario Health Worker PNP, Nova Scotia Demand PNP
3. Temporary Work Visa
- If you have a job offer from a Canadian employer, you may apply for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) based work permit.
- Many employers offer relocation support including flight, temporary housing, and assistance with documentation.
Employers Offering Physiotherapy Jobs with Relocation Support
Some healthcare institutions, clinics, and staffing agencies in Canada assist with relocation and visa sponsorship for foreign-trained physiotherapists:
Employer/Agency | Type | Relocation Support |
---|---|---|
Health Match BC | Provincial recruitment service | Yes |
Alberta Health Services | Public healthcare | Yes |
Bayshore HealthCare | Home health services | Varies |
ParaMed | Private healthcare | Yes (for select roles) |
Lifemark Health Group | Rehabilitation clinics | Yes |
Canada Staffing Agency | Recruitment firm | Yes |
Salary Expectations
The average salary of a physiotherapist in Canada depends on experience, location, and the type of employer.
- Entry-level: CAD $60,000 – $75,000 per year
- Experienced: CAD $80,000 – $100,000+ per year
- Private clinics or remote areas often pay higher due to staffing shortages.
How to Find Physiotherapy Jobs in Canada with Relocation
Here are the best ways to search for physiotherapy roles with relocation:
Job Boards
- Indeed.ca – Use filters for “visa sponsorship” or “foreign workers”
- Workopolis
- Job Bank Canada
- LinkedIn Jobs – Network with recruiters and apply directly
Recruitment Agencies
- Reach out to licensed agencies specializing in international healthcare placements.
Direct Applications
- Apply directly to hospital networks, long-term care homes, and rehabilitation centers.
Tips to Boost Your Chances
- Prepare a Canadian-style resume that focuses on achievements and certifications.
- Gain experience in a clinical setting and maintain records for documentation.
- Take courses aligned with Canadian practices to bridge knowledge gaps.
- Build a strong LinkedIn profile with professional endorsements and updated credentials.
- Start your licensing process early with CAPR while job hunting.
Conclusion
Canada presents an excellent opportunity for physiotherapists seeking to grow their careers in a stable and rewarding environment. With relocation support, competitive salaries, and clear immigration pathways, foreign-trained physiotherapists have a real chance of securing employment and eventually settling permanently.
If you have the right qualifications, determination, and a passion for patient care, pursuing a physiotherapy job in Canada with relocation support could be a life-changing decision.