Are you interested in teaching in Canada? The process is not as difficult as you might think. No matter your country, there is a pathway for you. Teachers are valued skilled workers in Canada, so if you have experience as a teacher, that puts you in a great position. On the other hand, if you have no teaching experience but dream of becoming a teacher in Canada, you can do that too. In every case, you’ll need to work toward meeting all the requirements to become a certified teacher in Canada.
Why Teach in Canada?
Canada is a great place to teach. Canadian teachers are some of the highest-paid teachers in the world. Teachers in Canada will also get summers off and only work from September to June each school year unless they choose to work in summer programs.
Canadian education is held in high regard worldwide, and being a Canadian teacher would allow you to be part of this education system.
Pathways to Immigration for Teachers
The two main pathways for teachers to immigrate to Canada are the Federal Skilled Worker Program and the Provincial Nominee Programs. Depending on your familiarity with Canada and prior experience, you can decide which option is best for you.
Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
The Federal Skilled Worker Program is one of three programs within Canada’s Express Entry immigration system, which is a pathway to permanent residence. As a teacher, you are considered a skilled worker in Canada.
To be eligible for this immigration program, you must:
- Have one continuous year of full-time experience as a skilled worker
- Score at least seven levels on an English or French language proficiency test
- Have education equivalent to or higher than a Canadian high school diploma
- Plan to live and work outside of Quebec
You can improve your chance of being chosen for Express Entry by obtaining a Canadian teaching certification or a teaching job offer before immigrating to Canada. Your selection will also depend on your familiarity with Canadian culture and education curriculum.
