How Can Indian Veterinarians Migrate and Settle in Canada?

According to reports from the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA), there is a growing shortage of veterinarians in Canada. Among many reasons, one of the main reasons is that employers in the veterinary sector face challenges in attracting skilled professionals. The number of students graduating each year is not proportionate to the labour shortages. This imbalance is expected to persist, with demand for veterinarians outstripping supply, creating significant career opportunities for qualified professionals.

From 2024 to 2031, the shortage of veterinarians is expected to continue, with an estimated 5,000 job openings. Alarmingly, there will be only around 4300 qualified workers to fill that vacancy. Additionally, federal projections indicate an extra shortfall of 700 veterinarians by 2031.
What else to say! If you are dreaming of settling in Canada, this is the right time for veterinarians from India to prepare to migrate to Canada.

In this article, we will delve into the opportunities available for veterinarians in Canada, the steps to immigrate, and how to take advantage of this high demand.

What is NOC Code?

The National Occupational Classification (NOC) is a standardized system the Canadian government uses to categorize and describe all occupations in the labour market.

Every occupation has a unique code, which helps to organize job titles and job descriptions for purposes such as immigration, job search, and employment statistics. The NOC system is crucial for matching job seekers with employers, ensuring both parties understand the qualifications and duties of various positions.

National Occupational Classification (NOC) code 31103

Veterinarians in Canada are classified explicitly under NOC code 31103. This code recognizes veterinarians for their crucial role in animal healthcare and requires them to meet specific education, certification, and licensing standards. They can work in private practice or animal clinics, farms, laboratories, government agencies, or industries in Canada by meeting all the requirements.

Job Titles under NOC 31103 

• Farm veterinarian
• Small animal veterinary specialist
• Veterinarian
• Veterinary inspector
• Veterinary pathologist
• Veterinary physiologist
• Veterinary surgeon
• Zoo veterinarian

What Do You Need to Qualify for a Veterinarian Job in Canada?

You must meet the general Canada PR eligibility requirements and then fulfill the following criteria to become eligible for a veterinarian job in Canada:

Doctor of Veterinary Medicine

• Education: Completion of two years of pre-veterinary university studies or a college program in health science, followed by a four to a five-year university degree in veterinary medicine.
• Certification: Completing examination leading to national accreditation.
• Licensing: A provincial license to practice is required.

Veterinary Specialists

• Education: Completion of a degree in veterinary medicine, plus three to four years of additional postgraduate studies or a residency program in their chosen specialty.
• Recognition: Accreditation by the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM) or the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners (ABVP) is required. In Quebec, accreditation by the Ordre des médecins vétérinaires du Québec is necessary, with only 18 recognized specialties.
• Licensing: A provincial license to practice is required.

Research Veterinarian

• Education: Completion of two years of pre-veterinary university studies or a college program in health science, followed by a four to a five-year university degree in veterinary medicine.
• Certification: Successful completion of an examination leading to national certification.
• Postgraduate Studies: Entry into research positions may require additional postgraduate study.
• Licensing: A provincial license to practice is required.

Province/Territory Regulatory Body

Immigration Pathways For Indian Veterinarians to Canada

1. Express Entry for Veterinarians

It is the fastest immigration pathway for immigrants residing anywhere in the world. The Canadian government manages the online stream to attract and retain skilled workers in Canada.

Based on your age, educational credentials, experience, language skills and other factors, you will earn a high Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. All these factors greatly influence your chances of receiving an invitation to apply for permanent residence.

You may consult an authorized immigration consultant or lawyer to assess your eligibility. For more assistance, you can contact us directly for a free consultation.

In a nutshell, the process includes:

1. Create a Profile: If you meet the eligibility criteria, create an Express Entry profile and enter the candidate pool.
2. Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS): Your profile will be ranked using the CRS score. This score determines if you will receive an invitation to apply for permanent residence.

If you are opting for Category-Based Selection, you need the following to qualify:

Work Experience:

• At least six months of continuous work experience as a veterinarian in India or Canada within the past three years
• Canadian work experience will be an added advantage. It can be gained through a work permit or as an international student from any Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada.

2. Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) for Veterinarians

Provinces/ territories in Canada can nominate skilled workers to fill vacancies based on their specific labour needs and economic priorities. The PNP helps address regional labour shortages by attracting qualified workers and professionals, including those in high-demand professions like veterinarians. Eventually, this will lead to permanent settlement and contribute to the local economies of that specific province/territory in Canada.

The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) is an ideal pathway if you prefer to live and work in a specific Canadian province. You can apply through the PNP of your chosen province. Each PNP has unique criteria that can increase your chances of receiving a provincial nomination.

Several Canadian provinces have a high demand for qualified veterinarians. Let us explore some of the popular PNPs for Veterinarians:

• Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP)
• Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP)
• Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP)
• Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP)
• British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP)
• Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP)
• Prince Edward Island Provincial Nominee Program (PEI PNP)
• Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP)

What Are the Average Earnings for Veterinarians in Canada?

Veterinarians in Canada can earn an average annual income of around $98,364, which equates to approximately $50.44 per hour. The yearly income of junior veterinary positions, especially international professionals, can be up to $64,807. However, for veterinarians with extensive experience or in senior roles can earn up to $137,500 annually.

All these figures show that veterinarians in Canada enjoy competitive salaries that reflect their expertise and experience. Whether you are at entry level or a seasoned professional, the veterinary field in Canada offers promising financial rewards and opportunities for growth.

ImmiLaw Global is ready to provide comprehensive assistance in navigating the various immigration paths available for veterinarians in Canada. From creating Express Entry profiles to choosing Provincial Nominee Programs and visa processes, we offer guidance tailored to individual needs. 

Contact us to build a solid career and sail a smooth immigration journey to Canada.

Read to Know: Latest Express Entry Draw Issues 3,750 ITAs Targeting Healthcare Occupations