Can Psychologists Immigrate to Canada?
Yes — here are the immigration programs, active jobs, and provinces hiring psychologists in Canada right now.
Key Requirements
Work Experience
At least one year of continuous full-time (or equivalent part-time) paid work experience as a psychologists within the last 10 years.
Language Proficiency
Proof of English or French language skills via an approved test (IELTS, CELPIP for English; TEF, TCF for French). A minimum CLB 7 in all abilities is recommended for Express Entry.
Education & Credential Assessment
Internationally educated psychologists must have their doctoral-level credentials assessed by the provincial/territorial psychology regulatory body. Additional supervised practice hours in Canada may be required.
Licensing and Registration
Psychology is a regulated profession. You must register with the provincial/territorial college of psychologists and pass any required jurisprudence and practice examinations.
Job Offer (Optional)
A valid job offer no longer adds CRS points (removed March 2025), but it can satisfy eligibility for certain Express Entry programs and is required for employer-sponsored work permits. There are currently 62 active psychologists openings on Job Bank.
Proof of Funds
You must demonstrate sufficient settlement funds — currently $15,263 for a single applicant, $28,362 for a family of 4. Waived if you have a valid Canadian job offer.
| Family Size | Minimum Funds (CAD) |
|---|---|
| 1 (Single) | $15,263 |
| 2 (Couple) | $19,001 |
| 3 | $23,360 |
| 4 | $28,362 |
| 5 | $32,168 |
| 6 | $36,280 |
| 7 | $40,392 |
| Each additional member | +$4,112 |
Eligible Immigration Programs
Express Entry (FSW)
High MatchFederal Skilled Worker program for qualified professionals with work experience.
Provincial Nominee Program
Medium MatchProvinces nominate workers with in-demand skills. Adds 600 CRS points.
Temporary Work Permit (LMIA)
High MatchEmployer-sponsored LMIA work permit — gain Canadian experience, then transition to PR.
Atlantic Immigration Program
Medium MatchEmployer-driven program for Atlantic Canada with faster processing.
International Experience Canada
Medium MatchWorking holiday or young professional visa for eligible countries.
Salary Information
| Province | Median | Low | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canada | $52.88/hr | $37.65 | $77.43 |
| Alberta | $55.19/hr | $40.05 | $95.08 |
| British Columbia | $48.95/hr | $33.90 | $63.05 |
| Manitoba | $49.04/hr | $33.65 | $74.55 |
| New Brunswick | $45.64/hr | $34.01 | $53.61 |
| Newfoundland and Labrador | $47.78/hr | $34.69 | $54.47 |
| Northwest Territories | — | — | — |
| Nova Scotia | $48.61/hr | $34.15 | $60.02 |
| Nunavut | — | — | — |
| Ontario | $51.28/hr | $33.30 | $63.14 |
| Prince Edward Island | — | — | — |
| Quebec | $50.19/hr | $37.42 | $59.33 |
| Saskatchewan | $51.00/hr | $39.62 | $60.96 |
Top Provinces Hiring
Current Job Openings
Clinical Psychologist
$49.24 to $70.98 hourly (to be negotiated)Nova Scotia Health Authority · Halifax, Nova Scotia
Clinical/forensic Psychologist
$120,463.00 annuallyCommunications Security Establishment Canada · Ottawa, Ontario
Clinical/forensic Psychologist
$120,463.00 annuallyCommunications Security Establishment Canada · Ottawa, Ontario
Registered Psychologist
$111.00 hourlyShiftgrit · Edmonton, Alberta
Psychologist
$100.00 to $159.00 hourly (to be negotiated)Hillcrest Psychology · Thorold, Ontario
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