Canada continues to face critical labour shortages in its healthcare system, and as a result, healthcare workers are being prioritized for Canadian permanent residence (PR). What many people don’t realize is that not all healthcare careers require years of university education. In fact, several in-demand healthcare jobs require two years of college or less and still offer a strong pathway to PR through Express Entry.
For international students, temporary workers, and newcomers, these occupations present a faster, more practical route to Permanent Residency in Canada.
Why Healthcare Workers Have an Advantage for PR in Canada
Canada prioritizes healthcare professionals through Express Entry category-based selection, specifically under the Healthcare and Social Services category. This allows eligible candidates to receive invitations to apply (ITAs) with lower CRS scores compared to general or Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draws.
📉 CRS comparison (Oct 2025 – Jan 2026):
-
Healthcare category draws: CRS 462–476
-
CEC draws: CRS 509–534
This difference can be the deciding factor for many applicants.
Six Priority Healthcare Jobs Requiring Two Years of College or Less
Here are six healthcare occupations currently prioritized for PR that typically require short-duration college programs:
1. Medical Laboratory Assistants (NOC 33101)
🕒 Program length: ~1 year
These professionals support diagnostic testing and are essential in hospitals and clinics across Canada.
2. Nurse Aides, Orderlies & Patient Service Associates (NOC 33102)
🕒 Program length: 6–12 months
One of the fastest entry routes into Canada’s healthcare sector, with strong employment demand nationwide.
3. Other Technical Occupations in Therapy & Assessment (NOC 32109)
🕒 Program length: ~2 years
Includes rehabilitation and assessment support roles used in long-term care and therapy settings.
4. Paramedical Occupations (NOC 32102)
🕒 Program length: 1–2 years
Critical frontline roles with growing demand, especially outside major urban centers.
5. Pharmacy Technical Assistants & Pharmacy Assistants (NOC 33103)
🕒 Program length: 6–12 months
Entry-level pharmacy roles that often serve as stepping stones to more advanced positions.
6. Pharmacy Technicians (NOC 32124)
🕒 Program length: ~2 years
A regulated profession with strong PR potential through Express Entry and PNPs.
Licensing Requirements: What You Need to Know
Most healthcare occupations in Canada are regulated at the provincial level. This means you may need:
-
Registration with a provincial regulatory body
-
Hands-on training or work placements
-
Passing a licensing or certification exam
Some Canadian study programs already include clinical placements, which can reduce licensing delays after graduation.
How Healthcare Workers Get Priority for Permanent Residence
To qualify for PR through Express Entry, healthcare workers must:
-
Take an approved language test (IELTS, CELPIP, or TEF)
-
Meet requirements under:
-
Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
-
Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), or
-
Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
-
-
Create an Express Entry profile
-
Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA)
For category-based healthcare draws, you must also have:
✅ At least 6 months of continuous full-time (or equivalent part-time) work experience
✅ Experience in one eligible healthcare occupation within the last 3 years
Because these draws are occupation-specific, lower CRS scores are often sufficient.
How ICC Immigration Can Help You Secure Your Future in Canada
Choosing the right healthcare occupation, study program, or work permit strategy can make the difference between temporary status and permanent settlement. ICC Immigration helps you take control of your future with clear, lawful, and stable immigration pathways.
Our Services Include:
-
Permanent Residency Applications through Express Entry, PNPs, and category-based draws
-
Work Permits and Study Permits designed to lead to PR
-
Family Sponsorship Applications to reunite loved ones in Canada
-
Expert Legal Immigration Advice to ensure full compliance with IRCC rules
Instead of relying on uncertain or risky options, choose a pathway that offers stability, security, and a clear route to Permanent Residency in Canada.
Whether you’re already in Canada or planning your journey, ICC Immigration is ready to guide you every step of the way.