Introduction: Why Canada Really Wants You
Okay… let’s be real. Canada’s healthcare system has been stretched for years. You’ve probably seen the headlines—long wait times, hospitals short on staff, rural clinics barely keeping up. But here’s the kicker: it’s not just doctors or nurses who are needed. Physician assistants, midwives, and allied health professionals (NOC 31303) are stepping in and honestly… they’re becoming the backbone of Canadian healthcare.
I was chatting with a hospital manager in Ontario the other day, and she said, “We could hire ten more people yesterday and still not cover everything.” And that was before winter even hit. From assisting doctors with exams, guiding new moms through childbirth, or managing critical diagnostics… these roles aren’t optional—they’re essential.
So if you’re trained in this field and thinking about moving to Canada permanently… well, timing couldn’t be better. Demand is high, salaries are solid, and immigration programs finally match real-world needs.
What Exactly Is NOC 31303?
You might be thinking, “Okay… what does this even mean?” NOC 31303 groups three types of healthcare pros:
- Physician Assistants (PAs): Think of them as the doctor’s right hand. They examine patients, order tests, and sometimes prescribe meds under supervision.
- Midwives: Experts in prenatal, birth, and postnatal care. They help families navigate one of life’s biggest events—sometimes literally saving lives in the process.
- Allied Health Professionals: This is a big umbrella—respiratory therapists, audiologists, occupational therapists… basically anyone filling the critical spaces between doctors and patients.
Each province has different rules. Ontario and Manitoba formally recognize PAs; other provinces might still require supervision. Midwives usually need provincial college registration. Allied health pros? Depends on your specialty.
Day-to-Day Life: What You’ll Actually Do
Let’s break it down… because people often have only a vague idea:
- Physician Assistants: Take patient histories, run exams, order and interpret tests, assist in surgeries, prescribe meds where allowed.
- Midwives: Guide prenatal/postnatal care, lead deliveries, teach families about newborn care, jump in fast during emergencies.
- Allied Health Professionals: Run diagnostics, manage therapies, support rehabilitation, assist doctors and nurses in specialized care.
Truth is… these roles aren’t just “supporting” healthcare—they are healthcare. Without them, hospitals and clinics would literally slow down.
Salaries & Opportunities: The Real Scoop
Alright… let’s talk money. I mean, if you’re moving countries, it matters.
- Physician Assistants: $85K–$120K, depending on province. Ontario and Manitoba usually top the charts—mostly because they’re desperate for staff.
- Midwives: $75K–$110K. Funny story: I spoke with a midwife in Ontario last month, and she laughed, “My calendar is packed solid till next year… seriously.”
- Allied Health Professionals: $60K–$95K, depending on specialty. Respiratory therapists and imaging techs usually hit the top end.
Now here’s the kicker—rural towns and northern regions sometimes toss in bonuses, relocation perks, or even faster PR processing just to get people in. So, if you’re okay leaving a big city behind… you could earn more and speed up your PR path. Pretty sweet, right?
Future Demand: What’s Coming Down the Pipeline
Wondering about job security? Here’s the scoop:
- Maternal care demand is rising—Canada needs more midwives, especially outside cities.
- Physician assistants are being integrated more into healthcare teams to help reduce doctor burnout.
- Allied health pros remain critical, especially respiratory and rehab specialists.
Rural and northern communities? They’re desperate. And for those willing to relocate… that means higher pay, more opportunities, and a faster PR path.
Immigration Updates: Express Entry & PNP
Now, here’s the part most people wait for… the immigration options:
- Express Entry Healthcare Draws (2025): NOC 31303 is included. CRS scores are usually lower than general draws, so even if your points aren’t maxed out, you still have a shot.
- Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs): Manitoba, Ontario, and Nova Scotia actively invite PAs, midwives, and allied health pros. Manitoba even flagged midwives as a priority.
- Atlantic Immigration Program & Rural/Northern Pilot: Smaller provinces and towns have fast-track streams for healthcare workers.
If you’re in this NOC, you’re prioritized. Your odds are better than most other occupations.
Here’s the breakdown:
- Express Entry (FSWP or CEC): Skilled work experience? You can apply. Healthcare draws make your chance higher.
- PNPs: Many provinces run healthcare-specific streams for priority occupations.
- Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP): Great if you’re open to moving to Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, PEI, or Newfoundland.
- Rural & Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP): Perfect for small towns that are desperate for healthcare pros.
Already in Canada on a work permit? That can be your fast lane:
- Start with an LMIA-based work permit or provincial program.
- Gain Canadian work experience.
- Apply for PR through Express Entry or PNP nomination.
For midwives and allied health pros trained abroad, some provinces require supervised practice first. But once that’s done… PR becomes much easier.
Here’s the reality—paperwork isn’t fun, but it’s crucial:
- Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)
- Proof of professional licensing/registration
- Work experience references
- IELTS/CELPIP results
- IRCC fees: CAD $1,365 (2025)
- Biometrics, police, and medical checks
Pro tip: healthcare roles often require extra licensing steps. Factor that into your timeline.
Final Thoughts & Tips
Let’s be honest. If you’re a physician assistant, midwife, or allied health professional, Canada needs you. Not vaguely—hospitals, clinics, and communities are actively searching.
Some advice from someone who’s seen this field:
- Get your credentials recognized early—it takes longer than you think.
- Be flexible about location—rural or Atlantic postings often pay more and speed up PR.
- Temporary work can be a bridge to permanent residency—don’t overlook it.
NOC 31303 isn’t just a number. It’s a doorway to a meaningful career and a real chance to make a difference.
