Canada Visa Sponsorship Jobs and Scholarship Guide for Foreign Workers and Students

High-paying visa-sponsored jobs in technology, healthcare, and engineering, alongside scholarships for undergraduate, master’s, and PhD studies. With salaries ranging from $60,000 to $180,000 CAD annually and scholarships covering tuition, living costs, and visa fees, top employers like Amazon, Alberta Health Services, and universities like Toronto and McGill are eager to attract global talent.

This comprehensive guide explores visa-sponsored jobs, scholarship programs, eligibility requirements, application steps, and practical tips to help you succeed in Canada’s dynamic economy and academic landscape.

Why Canada Needs Foreign Workers and Students in 2025

Canada, with its $2.1 trillion economy, is a global leader in technology, healthcare, and education. However, an aging population and rapid industry growth have created over 1 million job vacancies, including 150,000 in technology, 200,000 in healthcare, and 100,000 in engineering.

Similarly, Canadian universities, hosting 600,000+ international students annually, contribute $22 billion CAD to the economy through tuition and research. To address these needs, Canada offers visa-sponsored jobs via Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), and Global Talent Stream, and scholarships with International Student Permits, targeting professionals and students from countries like India, Nigeria, and Brazil.

For foreign workers and students, these opportunities provide competitive salaries, world-class education, free universal healthcare, and a pathway to permanent residency (PR). Whether you’re a nurse, software engineer, or aspiring PhD researcher, Canada’s multicultural cities, stunning landscapes like Banff, and high quality of life make it an ideal destination to build your future.

Understanding Canada Visa Sponsorship for Jobs and Study

Work Visas

Express Entry (Federal Skilled Worker Program)

• Purpose: For skilled professionals in high-demand roles, leading to PR.
• Duration: Permanent residency within 6–12 months.
• Cost: $1,540 CAD (application fee), often employer-supported.
• Work Rights: Full-time employment with any employer.
• Eligibility: Job offer (adds points), education, work experience, and English/French proficiency.
• Pathway: PR, then citizenship after 3–5 years.

Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)

• Purpose: For workers nominated by provinces like Ontario or British Columbia for shortage roles.
• Duration: PR within 6–18 months.
• Cost: $1,540 CAD, often employer-supported.
• Work Rights: Full-time employment, often employer-specific initially.
• Eligibility: Job offer, education, and language skills.
• Pathway: PR, then citizenship.

Global Talent Stream (GTS)

• Purpose: Fast-tracked work permits for tech professionals.
• Duration: Up to 2 years, renewable, with PR pathways.
• Cost: $1,000 CAD, often employer-covered.
• Work Rights: Employer-specific employment.
• Eligibility: Job offer in tech, Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) exempt.
• Pathway: PR via Express Entry or PNP.

Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)

• Purpose: For employer-specific roles requiring an LMIA.
• Duration: 1–3 years, renewable.
• Cost: $1,000 CAD, often employer-covered.
• Work Rights: Employer-specific employment.
• Eligibility: Job offer, LMIA, and relevant qualifications.
• Pathway: PR via Express Entry or PNP.

Fully funded jobs often include visa fee coverage, relocation support ($1,000–$10,000 CAD), and signing bonuses.

Study Permit (International Student Permit)

The Study Permit allows international students to study at Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs). Key features:

• Duration: Course length + 90 days, with Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) for up to 3 years.
• Cost: $150 CAD (application fee) + $85 CAD biometrics, often scholarship-covered.
• Work Rights: Up to 20 hours/week during term, full-time during holidays, and PGWP post-graduation.
• Eligibility: Admission to a DLI, English/French proficiency, and financial proof (waived for fully funded scholarships).
• Pathway: PGWP, Express Entry or PNP, then PR.

Fully funded scholarships cover tuition ($15,000–$40,000 CAD/year), living expenses ($1,000–$2,000 CAD/month), and visa fees.

Why Employers and Universities Offer Sponsorship

Employers like Shopify, Vancouver Coastal Health, and Suncor Energy sponsor workers to fill skill shortages, drive innovation, and enhance diversity. Universities offer scholarships to attract brilliant minds, boost research, and maintain global rankings. For applicants, sponsorship means financial support, career growth, and a chance to experience Canada’s vibrant culture, from Toronto’s CN Tower to Vancouver’s coastal charm.

Top High-Paying Visa-Sponsored Jobs in 2025

Below are high-paying jobs offering visa sponsorship, with salary benchmarks and top employers.

Technology Sector

1. Software Engineer

• Description: Builds applications, cloud solutions, or AI systems for tech giants or startups.
• Salary: $100,000–$150,000 CAD/year ($48–$72/hour).
• Skills: Python, Java, JavaScript, AWS, Azure.
• Sponsorship: Global Talent Stream or Express Entry, with relocation support ($5,000–$15,000 CAD).
• Top Employers:
  • Shopify (Toronto, Ottawa): Sponsors via GTS, offering signing bonuses and housing assistance.
  • Amazon Canada (Vancouver, Toronto): Sponsors via GTS or Express Entry, with comprehensive benefits.
  • Microsoft Canada (Vancouver, Toronto): Sponsors via GTS, with stock options.

2. Data Scientist

• Description: Analyzes data for business insights, using machine learning and analytics.
• Salary: $110,000–$160,000 CAD/year ($53–$77/hour).
• Skills: R, Python, SQL, TensorFlow.
• Sponsorship: Global Talent Stream or Express Entry, with relocation packages ($5,000–$10,000 CAD).
• Top Employers:
  • Google Canada (Toronto, Montreal): Sponsors via GTS, with professional development.
  • IBM Canada (Ottawa, Calgary): Sponsors via Express Entry, offering bonuses.

3. Machine Learning Engineer

• Description: Designs AI models for applications like predictive analytics or autonomous systems.
• Salary: $120,000–$180,000 CAD/year ($58–$87/hour).
• Skills: Deep learning, neural networks, Python, cloud platforms.
• Sponsorship: Global Talent Stream or Express Entry, with relocation grants ($5,000–$15,000 CAD).
• Top Employers:
  • NVIDIA Canada (Toronto): Sponsors via GTS, with stock options.
  • Element AI (Montreal): Sponsors via Express Entry, offering mentorship.

Healthcare Sector

4. Registered Nurse

• Description: Provides patient care in hospitals, clinics, or long-term care facilities.
• Salary: $70,000–$100,000 CAD/year ($34–$48/hour).
• Skills: RN license (NNAS evaluation), patient care, critical care.
• Sponsorship: PNP, TFWP, or Express Entry, with relocation support ($2,000–$10,000 CAD).
• Top Employers:
  • Alberta Health Services (Calgary, Edmonton): Sponsors via PNP or TFWP, with housing grants.
  • Vancouver Coastal Health (Vancouver, Victoria): Sponsors via PNP, offering relocation assistance.

5. Physician

• Description: Diagnoses and treats patients in specialties like family medicine or surgery.
• Salary: $150,000–$350,000 CAD/year ($72–$168/hour).
• Skills: MCCQE, medical licensure, specialty training.
• Sponsorship: Express Entry or PNP, with relocation support ($5,000–$15,000 CAD).
• Top Employers:
  • Saskatchewan Health Authority (Regina, Saskatoon): Sponsors via PNP, with professional development.
  • Nova Scotia Health Authority (Halifax): Sponsors via Express Entry, offering bonuses.

6. Pharmacist

• Description: Dispenses medications and advises on therapies.
• Salary: $90,000–$120,000 CAD/year ($43–$58/hour).
• Skills: PEBC licensure, patient counseling, inventory management.
• Sponsorship: PNP or Express Entry, with relocation grants ($2,000–$8,000 CAD).
• Top Employers:
  • Shoppers Drug Mart (Toronto, Vancouver): Sponsors via PNP, with training.
  • London Drugs (Vancouver, Calgary): Sponsors via Express Entry, offering bonuses.

Engineering Sector

7. Civil Engineer

• Description: Designs infrastructure like bridges, roads, or buildings.
• Salary: $80,000–$120,000 CAD/year ($38–$58/hour).
• Skills: AutoCAD, structural analysis, P.Eng certification.
• Sponsorship: Express Entry or PNP, with relocation support ($2,000–$10,000 CAD).
• Top Employers:
  • SNC-Lavalin (Montreal, Toronto): Sponsors via Express Entry, with project-based training.
  • Aecon Group (Toronto, Calgary): Sponsors via PNP, offering relocation support.

8. Mechanical Engineer

• Description: Designs machinery or energy systems for industries like oil and gas.
• Salary: $85,000–$130,000 CAD/year ($41–$63/hour).
• Skills: CAD software, thermodynamics, P.Eng certification.
• Sponsorship: Express Entry or PNP, with relocation packages ($2,000–$10,000 CAD).
• Top Employers:
  • Suncor Energy (Calgary, Fort McMurray): Sponsors via PNP, with bonuses.
  • Bombardier (Montreal): Sponsors via Express Entry, offering professional development.

9. Electrical Engineer

• Description: Designs electrical systems for power, telecommunications, or renewable energy.
• Salary: $90,000–$140,000 CAD/year ($43–$67/hour).
• Skills: Circuit design, PLC programming, P.Eng certification.
• Sponsorship: Express Entry or PNP, with relocation grants ($2,000–$10,000 CAD).
• Top Employers:
  • Hydro One (Toronto): Sponsors via Express Entry, with training programs.
  • BC Hydro (Vancouver): Sponsors via PNP, offering relocation support.

Top Fully Funded Scholarship Programs with Study Permit Sponsorship

Below are the best fully funded scholarships offering Study Permit sponsorship for international students in 2025.

1. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships

• Purpose: Funds PhD students in research-intensive programs.
• Funding: $50,000 CAD/year for 3 years, covering tuition, living costs, and visa fees.
• Eligibility:
  • Enrolled in a PhD at a Canadian university.
  • Strong academic record (GPA 3.5+ or equivalent).
  • Research potential (1,000–2,000-word proposal).
  • English/French proficiency (IELTS 6.5+ or TEF equivalent).
• Visa Support: Study Permit via university Letter of Acceptance.
• Fields: Health, natural sciences, engineering, social sciences.
• Why Apply?: Prestigious award for research excellence.
• Application Window: September–November 2025 (apply via Vanier.gc.ca).

2. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship

• Purpose: Funds undergraduate studies at the University of Toronto.
• Funding: Full tuition ($30,000–$40,000 CAD/year), living stipend ($10,000–$15,000 CAD/year), books, and visa fees.
• Eligibility:
  • Admission to University of Toronto.
  • Academic excellence (GPA 3.7+ or equivalent).
  • Leadership and extracurricular involvement.
  • English proficiency (IELTS 6.5+ or TOEFL 80+).
• Visa Support: Study Permit via university Letter of Acceptance.
• Fields: All undergraduate programs (e.g., computer science, engineering, arts).
• Why Apply?: Covers full costs at a top university.
• Application Window: October–January 2025 (apply via Utoronto.ca).

3. Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholarships

• Purpose: Funds PhD students in social sciences and humanities.
• Funding: $40,000 CAD/year for 3 years, plus $20,000 CAD for research/travel, covering tuition and visa fees.
• Eligibility:
  • Enrolled in a PhD at a Canadian university.
  • Academic excellence (GPA 3.5+).
  • Leadership and community engagement.
  • English/French proficiency (IELTS 6.5+).
• Visa Support: Study Permit via university Letter of Acceptance.
• Fields: Social sciences, humanities, public policy.
• Why Apply?: Supports leadership-driven research.
• Application Window: December–February 2025 (apply via TrudeauFoundation.ca).

4. University-Specific Scholarships

• Purpose: Covers tuition and living costs at top universities.
• Funding: $10,000–$50,000 CAD/year, often full tuition and stipends.
• Eligibility:
  • Admission to a DLI (e.g., UBC, McGill).
  • Academic excellence (GPA 3.0+).
  • English/French proficiency (IELTS 6.5+ or TEF equivalent).
• Visa Support: Study Permit via university Letter of Acceptance.
• Examples:
  • UBC International Leader of Tomorrow Award: $20,000–$50,000 CAD/year for undergraduates.
  • McGill Entrance Scholarships: $10,000–$30,000 CAD/year for undergraduates/graduates.
  • University of Alberta Doctoral Recruitment Scholarship: $5,000–$20,000 CAD/year for PhDs.
• Why Apply?: Reduces high tuition costs at top institutions.
• Application Window: Varies (check university websites, e.g., UBC.ca, McGill.ca).

5. Canada-ASEAN Scholarships

• Purpose: Funds undergraduate/graduate studies for ASEAN country students (e.g., Indonesia, Philippines).
• Funding: $10,000–$15,000 CAD/year for tuition, living costs, and visa fees.
• Eligibility:
  • Citizen of an ASEAN country.
  • Admission to a Canadian DLI.
  • Academic excellence (GPA 3.0+).
  • English/French proficiency (IELTS 6.5+).
• Visa Support: Study Permit via university Letter of Acceptance.
• Fields: All disciplines.
• Why Apply?: Supports ASEAN students.
• Application Window: February–April 2025 (apply via EduCanada.ca).

Eligibility Criteria for Jobs and Scholarships

Work Visas

• Job Offer: From a Canadian employer with a valid LMIA (for TFWP) or meeting Express Entry/PNP/GTS criteria.
• Eligible Occupation: NOC Skill Level 0, A, or B (e.g., software engineer: NOC 2173, nurse: NOC 3012).
• Education/Experience: Degree, diploma, or equivalent experience; 1–3 years of experience (preferred).
• Language Proficiency: Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 7 (IELTS 6.0+ or TEF equivalent).
• Financial Proof: $13,757 CAD for one person (Express Entry), often waived with a job offer.
• Health and Character: Clean criminal record, medical exam ($200–$500 CAD).

Study Permit

• Education: Admission to a DLI.
• Academic Performance: Strong grades (GPA 3.0+ or equivalent).
• Language Proficiency: IELTS 6.5+ or TOEFL 80+ (or TEF equivalent for French).
• Financial Proof: $10,000 CAD/year + tuition, waived for fully funded scholarships.
• Health and Character: Clean criminal record, medical exam for certain countries ($200–$500 CAD).

A strong application package includes:

• CV or personal statement highlighting qualifications, experience, or academic achievements.
• Recommendation letters (2–3) from employers, professors, or mentors.
• Academic transcripts or certifications (e.g., RN license, AWS certification).
• Language test results (IELTS/TEF/TOEFL).
• Research proposal (for PhD scholarships).

Step-by-Step Guide to Work and Study in Canada

For Visa-Sponsored Jobs

Step 1: Identify High-Demand Roles and Regions

Focus on shortage occupations like software engineering, nursing, or civil engineering. Target high-demand regions:

• Toronto: Tech, healthcare, engineering.
• Vancouver: Tech, healthcare, coastal lifestyle.
• Calgary: Engineering, healthcare, energy.
• Montreal: Bilingual tech, healthcare.

Check Canada’s NOC list or Job Bank for eligible roles.

Step 2: Research Sponsoring Employers

Target employers like Shopify, Alberta Health Services, or Suncor Energy. Check career pages for “visa sponsorship” or “LMIA” roles. Use:

• Job Bank (Canada.ca): Lists sponsored jobs.
• LinkedIn/Indeed Canada: Search for “visa sponsorship” jobs.
• Provincial Websites: E.g., Ontario.ca, WorkBC.ca for PNP jobs.

Step 3: Prepare Application Materials

Create a CV highlighting:

• Qualifications (e.g., computer science degree, nursing license).
• Experience (1–3 years).
• Skills (e.g., coding, patient care, AutoCAD).
  Write a cover letter emphasizing your fit and visa needs.

Step 4: Gain Certifications

Boost your chances with:

• Technology: AWS, Azure, Cisco certifications.
• Healthcare: NNAS evaluation, MCCQE, PEBC licensure.
• Engineering: P.Eng, CAD certifications.
  Learn English/French (CLB 7) via IELTS/TEF ($200–$300 CAD).

Step 5: Apply for Jobs

Apply through employer websites, Job Bank, or LinkedIn. Mention visa sponsorship needs.

Step 6: Secure a Job Offer and Sponsorship

Obtain a job contract and LMIA (for TFWP) or CoS equivalent for Express Entry/PNP/GTS.

Step 7: Apply for Work Visa

Submit via Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC):

• Provide job offer, LMIA (if required), education credentials, language results, and medical exam.
• Pay $1,000–$1,540 CAD + $85 CAD biometrics.
• Book biometrics appointment.
• Processing: 2–8 weeks (GTS/TFWP), 6–12 months (Express Entry/PNP).

For Scholarships with Study Permit

Step 1: Choose Your Program

Select a program at a DLI:

• Undergraduate: Computer science, nursing, engineering.
• Master’s: Data science, public health, civil engineering.
• PhD: AI, biotechnology, social sciences.

Use university websites or StudyinCanada.com.

Step 2: Research Scholarships

Explore Vanier, Lester B. Pearson, or university scholarships. Check EduCanada.ca or university portals for deadlines (e.g., Vanier: November 2025).

Step 3: Prepare Application Materials

Gather:

• Academic transcripts.
• CV highlighting achievements and experience.
• Personal statement (500–1,000 words) on academic goals and Canada choice.
• Recommendation letters (2–3).
• IELTS/TOEFL/TEF scores.
• Research proposal (for PhD).

Step 4: Apply for Admission and Scholarships

Apply via university portals (October–January for undergraduates, December–March for graduates). Submit scholarship applications separately if required.

Step 5: Secure Letter of Acceptance

After admission, the university issues a Letter of Acceptance.

Step 6: Apply for Study Permit

Submit via IRCC:

• Provide Letter of Acceptance, passport, financial proof (if needed), language results, and medical exam.
• Pay $150 CAD + $85 CAD biometrics.
• Book biometrics appointment.
• Processing: 4–12 weeks.

Step 7: Relocate

Use job/scholarship support for flights ($500–$2,000 CAD), housing ($800–$2,000 CAD/month), or settling-in funds ($500–$2,000 CAD).

Challenges of Work and Study in Canada

• Competition: High demand for jobs and scholarships requires standout applications.
• Language Proficiency: CLB 7 (IELTS 6.0+) for jobs, IELTS 6.5+ for scholarships.
• LMIA Process: Employers must prove no local candidates for TFWP, delaying applications.
• Cost of Living: Toronto/Vancouver ($1,200–$2,000 CAD/month) are expensive, but salaries/scholarships help.
• Visa Delays: Processing can take 12+ months for Express Entry/PNP if incomplete.

Tips for Success

• Apply Early: Meet job/scholarship deadlines and visa timelines (6–12 months prior).
• Tailor Applications: Customize CVs, cover letters, or personal statements.
• Improve Language Skills: Take IELTS/TEF early ($200–$300 CAD).
• Network: Connect with recruiters, alumni, or professors on LinkedIn or at job fairs (e.g., Canada Career Month).
• Target Shortage Roles: Focus on tech, healthcare, or engineering for jobs.
• Use Resources: Check Job Bank, EduCanada.ca, or university websites.
• Hire Experts: Consult immigration consultants ($500–$2,000 CAD) for complex cases.

Benefits of Working and Studying in Canada

• High Salaries: $60,000–$180,000 CAD/year for jobs.
• Funding: $10,000–$50,000 CAD/year for scholarships, covering tuition, living costs, and visas.
• Free Healthcare: Universal healthcare saves $100–$500 CAD/month.
• Relocation Support: $1,000–$15,000 CAD (jobs), $500–$10,000 CAD (scholarships).
• Permanent Residency: PR within 6–18 months (jobs) or via PGWP (scholarships).
• Cultural Immersion: Enjoy Canadian festivals (e.g., Calgary Stampede, Canada Day), cuisine (poutine, maple syrup), and landmarks like Niagara Falls.

Pathway to Permanent Residency

• Work Visas: PR via Express Entry or PNP, citizenship after 3–5 years.
• Study Permit: PGWP (up to 3 years), Express Entry or PNP, then PR.
  Dependents join on family visas, with work/study rights.

Living in Canada

Whether working in Calgary’s energy sector or studying in Montreal’s bilingual hub, you’ll enjoy:

• Cultural Immersion: Celebrate Diwali, Christmas, or Indigenous Powwows, savor diverse cuisines, and visit landmarks like the Rockies.
• Travel: Explore the US ($50–$200 CAD flights).
• Quality of Life: Safe cities, reliable transit ($100–$150 CAD/month), free healthcare.

Top Cities for Work and Study

• Toronto: Tech, healthcare, education hub. Living costs: $1,200–$2,000 CAD/month.
• Vancouver: Tech, healthcare, scenic lifestyle. Living costs: $1,300–$2,200 CAD/month.
• Calgary: Engineering, healthcare. Living costs: $1,000–$1,800 CAD/month.
• Montreal: Bilingual education, tech. Living costs: $900–$1,600 CAD/month.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I Need Experience for Jobs?

1–3 years preferred; shortage roles accept less.

What Jobs Qualify?

NOC Skill Level 0, A, or B (e.g., software engineer: 2173, nurse: 3012).

Can I Bring Family?

Yes, on family visas with work/study rights.

What Are Visa Fees?

Jobs: $1,000–$1,540 CAD; Scholarships: $150 CAD + biometrics.

What Salaries/Funding Can I Expect?

Jobs: $60,000–$180,000 CAD/year; Scholarships: $10,000–$50,000 CAD/year.

How Long Can I Stay?

Jobs: 1–3 years (TFWP/GTS), PR within 6–18 months; Scholarships: Course + PGWP (up to 3 years).

Do I Need Language Proficiency?

Yes, CLB 7 (IELTS 6.0+) for jobs, IELTS 6.5+ for scholarships.

Conclusion: Start Your Canadian Journey in 2025

Canada visa sponsorship jobs and scholarships in 2025 offer foreign workers and students a transformative chance to join top employers like Shopify and Alberta Health Services or study at world-class universities like UBC and McGill. With high salaries, fully funded scholarships, and clear pathways to permanent residency, these opportunities make your Canadian dream achievable. Take the first step today and join thousands thriving in Canada’s welcoming, multicultural society.

For more information, visit www.canada.ca.