Maple News reports that Canada is actively seeking skilled audiologists and speech-language pathologists, as the country anticipates continued growth in healthcare demand through 2025 and beyond. These professionals play a vital role in managing hearing and communication challenges, making them crucial in a system responding to an aging population and expanding awareness of speech and language disorders.
Under the 2021 National Occupational Classification (NOC 31112), audiologists and speech-language pathologists are eligible to apply for Canadian permanent residence through the Express Entry system. The federal government has included these roles in its category-based selection process, prioritizing health-related occupations in response to labour shortages across several provinces.
Candidates must demonstrate at least six months of continuous work experience, achieved within the previous three years, and meet language proficiency thresholds in either English or French. Education credentials must be evaluated through an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) for foreign-trained applicants. Express Entry also requires proof of funds unless the candidate qualifies under the Canadian Experience Class.
Once eligible, applicants can create an Express Entry profile and identify themselves under the NOC 31112. When selected in an occupation-specific or general draw, they will receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency. Following this, applicants must submit documents including proof of work history, language test scores, and medical and police clearances within the designated timeframe.
According to Canada’s Job Bank, the employment outlook remains strong in provinces such as Ontario, British Columbia, and Nova Scotia. The average median wage for speech-language pathologists is $44 per hour, while audiologists earn a median of approximately $85,800 annually. Salaries can range more broadly based on location and experience, with rural regions often offering competitive pay to attract professionals.
Importantly, immigration through Express Entry does not require a job offer—though a provincial license may be necessary to begin working in regulated roles upon arrival. In addition to federal options, several provinces offer dedicated Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) streams for healthcare professionals, opening further channels to permanent residency.
Canada’s immigration strategy highlights healthcare as a top priority, and this presents both opportunity and stability for audiologists and speech-language pathologists globally. Besides career advancement, immigrants in these roles benefit from universal healthcare access, professional development pathways, and Canada’s inclusive, multicultural environment.
With strategic federal and provincial programs supporting skilled newcomers, 2025 presents an ideal time for experienced audiologists and speech-language pathologists abroad to explore Canada’s immigration pathways and build fulfilling careers in the country’s healthcare system.