Did you know that three-quarters of Canadians visit the dentist at least once a year, which equates to almost 30 million people? With only 23,000 practicing dentists in the country, this means there is a significant demand for dental professionals. Additionally, as the median age of the population continues to rise, there will be even more dental chair visits from the growing senior demographic in Canada. People love to retire in Canada because it is an incredibly beautiful country, featuring hot summers, snowy winters, snow-capped mountains, blue lakes, deep green forests, and roaring rivers. Retirees can benefit from Canada’s world-renowned free public healthcare system. While dental care is not covered under this system, two-thirds of the population has dental insurance, and government-funded programs are available for those without coverage. If you are looking to immigrate to Canada as a dentist, there are great opportunities available, even amid the pandemic. The Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada (IRCC) invites qualified foreign workers to emigrate to Canada each month. But what does it take to start practicing? Let’s take a closer look at the requirements.
Steps to Immigrate to Canada as a Dentist
STEP 1: Have Your Credentials Assessed
The first step is to have your credentials assessed by a recognized agency. This assessment is necessary for your visa application and will help determine if your qualifications meet Canadian standards.
STEP 2: Apply to the Dental Regulatory Authority (DRA)
Next, you will need to apply to the Dental Regulatory Authority (DRA) of the province or territory where you wish to live and work. Each province has its own regulatory body, so be sure to check the specific requirements.
STEP 3: Choose Your Pathway
You will have the option to take a series of exams or complete a shortened qualifying degree program at a recognized Canadian university. If you are already a practicing dentist, you will likely opt for the exam route.
STEP 4: Prepare for the Exams
Preparation is key. Consider taking refresher courses, especially if it has been a while since you engaged with dental theory. Once you successfully pass the admission exams, you will be certified by the National Dental Examining Board of Canada (NDEB).
STEP 5: Start Your Career
Once certified, you can begin practicing dentistry in Canada, earning a competitive salary and providing a better life for yourself and your family.
Jobs in Canada for Dentists
You may be wondering how much dentists earn in Canada today. Salaries vary significantly by province, experience, and whether you work in a rural or urban area. The national average salary for dentists is around $140,000 per year. While urban areas tend to offer higher salaries due to increased living costs and competition, rural areas provide a more relaxed lifestyle. Here are some average annual salaries based on provinces and cities:
| Dentists Annual Income | |
|---|---|
| Halifax, Nova Scotia | $166,403 |
| Vancouver, British Columbia | $167,257 |
| Yellowknife, NWT | $91,850 |
Immigration Options for Dentists
There are several pathways to immigrate to Canada as a dentist. The Express Entry system can get you ready to go in as little as six months. While some options may take longer, if you have the qualifications, and language skills, and pass the qualifying exams, you should have no problem obtaining permanent resident status in Canada.
Express Entry System
Dentists are classified under skill type A according to the National Occupational Classification (NOC). This means they are eligible to apply as skilled professionals in the Federal Skilled Worker Program. Your eligibility for this program is determined by:
- Skilled Work Experience: You need at least one year of continuous work or 1,560 hours in total.
- Language Ability: Effective communication with patients is crucial, so you must pass a Canadian Language Benchmark test with a minimum score of 7 in all four sections: reading, writing, listening, and speaking.
- Qualifications: You will need to have your credentials assessed to demonstrate they are equivalent to Canadian qualifications.
- Eligibility: You must not have a criminal record, be in good health, and have legal status in your current country.
These factors, along with family ties in Canada and work experience, will contribute to your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score in your Express Entry profile. You will enter a pool of applicants, and twice a month, a lottery will be held to invite those with the highest CRS scores to apply for permanent residency. Securing a provincial nomination can significantly boost your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
Provincial Nomination Program (PNP)
The Provincial Nomination Program (PNP) works closely with the Express Entry system to address specific labor shortages within provinces. There are two ways to apply for a provincial nomination. The first is to express your interest in a particular province through your Express Entry profile. If the province finds your skills match their needs, they will issue you a Provincial Nomination, which adds 600 points to your CRS score, greatly enhancing your chances of receiving an ITA. The second option is to create a profile on the provincial government’s website and submit an expression of interest directly. If your skills are in demand, you may receive an invitation to apply directly to the province, which will support your application for permanent residence with the Canadian government. PNP requirements are generally similar to those of the Express Entry program but may be less stringent.
Atlantic Immigration Pilot
If you are not yet fully qualified and plan to complete your education or exams in Canada, the Atlantic Immigration Pilot (AIP) may be a suitable option. This program allows you to apply for permanent residency if you have a valid full-time job offer in one of the four Atlantic provinces: Nova Scotia, Newfoundland and Labrador, New Brunswick, or Prince Edward Island. The AIP is designed to address labor shortages in these regions, and all health professions, including dentistry, are in high demand. If you secure a valid job offer, you can apply for permanent residence simultaneously with your Canadian work permit.
In summary, if you are looking to immigrate to Canada as a dentist, there are numerous pathways available to you. With a strong demand for dental professionals, a supportive healthcare system, and a high quality of life, Canada presents an excellent opportunity for dentists seeking to advance their careers and enjoy a fulfilling lifestyle. By following the outlined steps and exploring the various immigration options, you can take the necessary steps toward making your dream of practicing dentistry in Canada a reality.