Nursing Assistant Jobs In Canada With Visa Sponsorship for Foreigners in 2025

Are you passionate about caregiving and dreaming of a career as a nursing assistant in Canada? There are exciting opportunities for foreign workers to join Canada’s growing healthcare workforce through visa sponsorship programs. 

Canada’s aging population fuels a high demand for skilled nursing assistants, with employers offering competitive salaries and benefits to attract global talent.

This guide outlines the criteria and requirements for visa sponsorship and provides a list of medical organizations in Canada offering these positions and how to apply. 

Eligibility Criteria and Requirements for Nursing Assistant Jobs in Canada with Visa Sponsorship

You must meet specific eligibility criteria to work as a nursing assistant in Canada with visa sponsorship. 

Here are the key requirements:

• Educational Background and Training: Completion of secondary school education is typically required. Many positions demand certification from a nursing assistant or personal support worker program. 
• Qualifications and Certifications: Relevant certifications, such as the Canadian Nursing Assistant Certification Exam or the equivalent provincial exam may be required. This shows your skills and dedication to the profession.
• Language Proficiency: Proficiency in English or French is essential. Applicants must demonstrate their language skills through recognized tests like IELTS if English is not their first language​. 
• Healthcare Background and Screening: Undergo a health screening process and provide proof of your medical background to ensure you are in good health and able to perform the duties of a nursing assistant. Provide proof of immunizations and vaccinations as required by the employer or provincial health authority.
• Regulatory and Licensing Requirements: In regulated provinces, candidates must meet the standards set by the respective provincial health authorities. This could include obtaining licensure or certifications as per the National Occupational Classification​.
• Work Experience: While not always mandatory, some employers may require a minimum of 1-2 years of experience in a healthcare setting. 
• Clean Criminal Record: Provide a clear criminal background check from your country of origin and any other country where you have resided.
• Visa Sponsorship: Secure a job offer from a Canadian employer willing to sponsor your work permit application. The employer must obtain a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) to demonstrate the need for a foreign worker.
• Work Visa Requirements: You need a valid work visa to work in Canada. Employers typically help sponsor your visa application.
• Adaptability and Soft Skills: Employers often look for candidates with strong interpersonal skills, empathy, and the ability to handle physically demanding tasks​.

How to Apply for Nursing Assistant Jobs In Canada With Visa Sponsorship (A Step-by-Step Guide)

Applying for nursing assistant jobs in Canada with visa sponsorship can be a straightforward process if you follow these steps carefully:

Step 1: Assess Your Eligibility

Review the eligibility criteria and requirements for nursing assistant jobs in Canada, including education, certification, language proficiency (English or French), and work experience.

Gather all necessary documents, such as your nursing assistant diploma or certificate, transcripts, language test results, and criminal background check. Ensure that documents are properly translated and certified if required.

Step 2: Research Job Opportunities

Look for nursing assistant positions on reputable job boards like:

• Job Bank Canada (jobbank.gc.ca)
• Indeed Canada (ca.indeed.com)

You can explore healthcare industry websites and provincial health authority websites for job openings. Consider working with a reputable healthcare-focused recruitment agency that specializes in healthcare placements for foreign workers.

Identify Canadian employers explicitly stating they offer visa sponsorship for foreign workers. 

Step 3: Prepare Your Application

Create a compelling resume and cover letter tailored to the Canadian job market and the specific employer’s requirements. 

Highlight your relevant education, training, work experience, and skills that align with the nursing assistant role. Include your credentials evaluation and proof of language proficiency (IELTS or TEF scores).

Obtain references from previous employers or supervisors who can vouch for your professional abilities and character. Ensure all documents are up–to-date and professionally formatted​.

Step 4: Apply Directly to Employers

Submit your application materials directly to the employers or through the specified application channels. Focus on employers with a history of hiring internationally, as they are more likely to support visa sponsorship​

Step 5: Follow Up and Prepare for Interviews

After submitting your application, follow up with employers to show your enthusiasm for the role.

If shortlisted, prepare for virtual interviews by researching common questions related to nursing assistant duties and Canadian workplace culture.

Step 6: Secure Visa Sponsorship

If successful, receive a formal job offer from a Canadian employer willing to sponsor your work permit.

The employer will apply for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) to demonstrate the need for a foreign worker to fill the position. Provide any additional information or documents required by the employer for the LMIA application.

Step 7: Apply for a Work Permit

Apply for a work permit through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) once the LMIA is approved.

Submit your work permit application with the required documents, including the LMIA, job offer letter, and proof of eligibility. Pay the necessary fees and wait for the processing of your application.

Step 8: Complete Relocation Formalities

Work with your employer and immigration consultants to finalize travel arrangements and settle in Canada. Many employers assist with housing and initial relocation​. Familiarize yourself with Canadian culture, laws, and regulations to ensure a smooth transition.

If you intend to settle permanently, consider applying for permanent residency through programs like the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) or Express Entry under the caregiver stream. This can provide long-term stability in Canada.

Top Medical Centers Hiring Nursing Assistant Jobs In Canada With Visa Sponsorship

If you’re looking to work as a nursing assistant in Canada, here are some top medical centers in Canada offering nursing assistant jobs with visa sponsorship:

1. Fraser Health Authority (British Columbia)

Fraser Health Authority is one of the largest health authorities in British Columbia, serving over 1.8 million people across 12 hospitals. They actively seek international nursing assistants and offer visa sponsorship. 

To qualify, candidates must have completed a recognized nursing assistant program, be registered with the BC Care Aide & Community Health Worker Registry, have 6-12 months of experience, and demonstrate English language proficiency with a CLB level of 7 or higher. 

To apply, submit an online application via their careers website, including your resume, cover letter, and required documents. 

2. Alberta Health Services (Alberta)

Alberta Health Services is the largest healthcare employer in Canada, with over 100,000 employees across various hospitals, clinics, and care centers. They actively recruit international nursing assistants and provide visa sponsorship support. 

Qualifications include completion of a recognized health care aide program, registration with the Alberta Certified Health Care Aide Directory, a minimum of 1 year of experience, and English language proficiency with a CLB level of 7 or higher. 

To apply, create an online profile and submit your application via their careers website, including your resume and required documents. 

3. Unity Health Toronto (Ontario)

Unity Health Toronto is a renowned health network in Toronto, comprising St. Michael’s Hospital, St. Joseph’s Health Centre, and Providence Healthcare. 

They are committed to diversity and inclusion in their workforce and offer nursing assistant positions with visa sponsorship for international candidates. 

Qualifications include completion of a recognized personal support worker (PSW) or nursing assistant program, registration with the Ontario Personal Support Workers Association (OPSWA) or equivalent, a minimum of 1 year of experience in a healthcare setting, and English language proficiency with a CLB level of 7 or higher. 

To apply, submit an online application via their careers website, including your resume, cover letter, and required documents. 

4. CIUSSS West-Central Montreal (Quebec)

CIUSSS West-Central Montreal is a major healthcare network in Montreal, serving a diverse population across several hospitals, long-term care facilities, and rehabilitation centers. They welcome international nursing assistants and provide visa sponsorship assistance. 

Qualifications include completion of a recognized nursing assistant or préposé aux bénéficiaires (PAB) program, registration with the Quebec Order of Nursing Assistants (OIIAQ), a minimum of 1 year of experience in a healthcare setting, and French language proficiency at an intermediate to advanced level. 

To apply, submit an online application via their careers website, including your resume, cover letter, and required documents.

5. Nova Scotia Health Authority (Nova Scotia)

The Nova Scotia Health Authority is the largest employer in Nova Scotia, with over 23,000 employees across various hospitals, community health centers, and long-term care facilities. They actively seek international nursing assistants and offer visa sponsorship support. 

Qualifications include completion of a recognized continuing care assistant program, registration with the Nova Scotia College of Nursing (NSCN), a minimum of 1 year of experience, and English language proficiency with a CLB level of 7 or higher. 

To apply, submit an online application via their jobs website, including your resume, cover letter, and required documents.

6. Winnipeg Regional Health Authority (Manitoba)

The Winnipeg Regional Health Authority is responsible for healthcare delivery in Winnipeg and surrounding areas, operating several hospitals, including Health Sciences Centre Winnipeg and St. Boniface Hospital. They welcome international nursing assistants and provide visa sponsorship guidance. 

Qualifications include completion of a recognized health care aide program, a minimum of 1 year of experience, and English language proficiency with a CLB level of 7 or higher. 

To apply, submit an online application via their careers website, including your resume, cover letter, and required documents. 

The Average Salary for Nursing Assistant Jobs in Canada with Visa Sponsorship

As a nursing assistant in Canada, your salary can vary widely based on several factors such as location, experience, and workplace setting.

Average Hourly Wage

The average hourly wage for a nursing assistant ranges between C$17 to C$25 with overtime potentially increasing this_. This figure reflects entry-level positions.

National Average (Salary Ranges)

The national average salary ranges between C$32,000 to C$45,000 annually.​

Provincial Averages

Salaries differ by province. For example:

• Alberta: C$22.50 – C$28.00 per hour (C$46,800 – C$58,240 annually)
• British Columbia: C$21.00 – C$26.00 per hour (C$43,680 – C$54,080 annually)
• Ontario: C$18.00 – C$24.00 per hour (C$37,440 – C$49,920 annually)
• Quebec: C$16.00 – C$22.00 per hour (C$33,280 – C$45,760 annually)
• Nova Scotia: C$17.00 – C$22.00 per hour (C$35,360 – C$45,760 annually)
• Manitoba: C$16.00 – C$21.00 per hour (C$33,280 – C$43,680 annually)

Work Settings

Your setting can affect your salary. 

• Public Healthcare Institutions: Annual salary ranges from C$32,000 to C$45,000, with benefits like pensions and paid leave included.
• Private Hospitals and Clinics: Annual salary ranges from C$35,000 to C$50,000, often depending on specialization and workload.
• Long-term Care Facilities: C$16.00 – C$23.00 per hour (C$33,280 – C$47,840 annually).
• Home Care Agencies: C$17.00 – C$24.00 per hour (C$35,360 – C$49,920 annually).

Experience Level

• Entry-Level Nursing Assistants (0-2 years): C$16.00 – C$20.00 per hour (C$33,280 – C$41,600 annually). These positions are ideal for newcomers or fresh graduates​.
• Mid-Level Nursing Assistants (3-6 years of experience): C$19.00 – C$24.00 per hour (C$39,520 – C$49,920 annually). Experience increases earning potential, especially with specialized roles​
• Senior or Specialized Roles: C$22.00 – C$28.00 per hour (C$45,760 – C$58,240 annually). Experienced professionals working in high-demand areas such as palliative care or geriatrics even the highest.​

Benefits of Nursing Assistant Jobs in Canada with Visa Sponsorship

Nursing assistant jobs in Canada with visa sponsorship offer several compelling benefits for international healthcare professionals. 

Here are some of the key advantages:

1. Competitive Salaries

Nursing assistants earn between C$32,000 to C$50,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. These roles often include overtime pay and performance bonuses, enhancing overall compensation​.

2. Visa Sponsorship Assistance

Many employers handle the complexities of visa sponsorship, including work permit applications and associated fees. This support simplifies the immigration process for international workers​.

3. Job Security and High Demand

Canada’s healthcare system faces a growing demand for healthcare workers due to an aging population. Nursing assistant roles offer excellent job stability and opportunities for career growth​.

4. Professional Growth Opportunities

Working as a nursing assistant in Canada with visa sponsorship can open doors to long-term career growth. 

With experience and additional qualifications, nursing assistants may have opportunities for advancement, such as becoming a licensed practical nurse (LPN) or registered nurse (RN).

5. Comprehensive Benefits Packages

Employers often provide additional benefits, including:

• Health Insurance: Comprehensive coverage for medical, dental, and vision care.
• Retirement Plans: Contributions to pension or savings plans.
• Paid Leave: Vacation days, sick leave, and parental leave​.

6. Pathway to Permanent Residency

Gaining work experience as a nursing assistant with visa sponsorship can be a stepping stone towards permanent residency in Canada.

Many provincial nominee programs (PNPs) and federal immigration pathways recognize healthcare workers, making it easier to transition from temporary work permits to permanent residency in Canada​.

7. Professional Development Opportunities

Employers may offer on-the-job training, certifications, or funding for further education, allowing nursing assistants to upskill and potentially advance to higher-paying roles like registered nursing​.

8. Relocation Support

Some employers provide relocation packages, including assistance with housing, transportation, and settling into a new community, ensuring a smooth transition for foreign workers and their families​.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of healthcare facilities hire nursing assistants in Canada?

Nursing assistants can work in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, and home care agencies. Each of these facilities may have different roles and responsibilities.

How much does a nursing assistant earn per hour in Canada?

The hourly wage for nursing assistants in Canada typically ranges from C$15 to C$25. More experienced assistants or those in specialized roles may earn higher wages.

Are nursing assistants in demand in Canada?

Yes, nursing assistants are in high demand in Canada. The growing aging population and increasing healthcare needs contribute to the ongoing demand for qualified staff in this field.

Which province in Canada has the highest demand for nurses?

Ontario and British Columbia often have the highest demand for nursing assistants. However, provinces like Alberta and Nova Scotia are experiencing significant growth in healthcare needs.

Which healthcare course is in demand in Canada?

Healthcare assistant programs are currently in high demand due to the growing need for support staff in various healthcare settings. Courses focused on patient care and gerontology are particularly sought after.

How long is the nursing assistant course in Canada?

Nursing assistant courses in Canada typically last between six months to a year. The duration may vary based on the program structure and whether it includes practical experience.

How can a foreign nursing assistant apply for immigration to Canada?

Foreign nursing assistants can apply for immigration through programs like the Express Entry system or provincial nominee programs. Securing a job offer from a Canadian employer can enhance your chances of successful immigration.