How To Move To Canada From India As A Veterinarian
Canada is renowned for its strong healthcare system, yet the veterinary field is experiencing significant labor shortages. The Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) reports that veterinary clinic owners and employers have difficulty attracting and retaining qualified professionals.
This shortage is expected to continue from 2024 to 2031, with an estimated 5,000 job openings for only 4,300 qualified candidates. Additionally, federal projections indicate an extra shortage of 700 veterinarians by 2031, identified under the National Occupational Classification (NOC) 2021 code 31103.
In light of this high demand, this is an ideal moment for veterinarians from India to immigrate to Canada and take advantage of the career opportunities available.
Employment Requirements to Secure a Veterinarian Job in Canada
To qualify for a veterinarian job in Canada, in addition to meeting the general Canada PR eligibility requirements, you typically need to fulfill the following criteria:
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Doctor of Veterinary Medicine
- Educational Requirements:
- Completion of 2 years of pre-veterinary university education or a college degree in health science.
- Completion of a 4–5 year university degree in veterinary medicine.
- Certification:
- Passing an examination that leads to national certification.
- Licensing:
- Obtaining a license from the provincial government to practice.
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Veterinary Specialists
- Educational Requirements:
- Completion of a degree in veterinary medicine.
- Completion of 3–4 years of post-graduate education or a residency program in their chosen specialty.
- Recognition:
- Recognition by the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM) or the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners (ABVP).
- In Quebec, accreditation by the Ordre des médecins vétérinaires du Québec is required, with only 18 recognized specialties.
- Licensing:
- Obtaining a license from the provincial government to practice.
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Research Veterinarian
- Educational Requirements:
- Completion of 2 years of pre-veterinary university education or a college program in health science.
- Completion of a 4–5 year university degree in veterinary medicine.
- Certification:
- Passing an examination that leads to national certification.
- Post-Graduate Studies:
- Undertaking post-graduate studies to qualify for research positions.
- Licensing:
- Obtaining a license from the provincial government to practice.
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Necessary Certifications for Veterinarians to Practice in Canadian Provinces
Before commencing work in any province, veterinarians must secure certification from the relevant regulatory authority. Below are the regulatory bodies for each Canadian province:
Pathways for Veterinarians from India to Immigrate to Canada
Express Entry
Express Entry offers the fastest route for securing permanent residence in Canada, with application processing times of approximately six months. To determine your eligibility, use the 67-point calculator, which assesses your qualifications based on work experience, age, education, language skills, and other factors. You need to score at least 67 out of 100 points.
Once eligible, create a profile and enter the candidate pool. Your profile will be ranked using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, which determines if you will receive an invitation to apply for permanent residence through Express Entry.
Healthcare professionals, including veterinarians, are among the six categories prioritized by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) in category-based selection draws. To qualify, you need a minimum of six months of continuous work experience as a veterinarian in India or Canada within the past three years. Canadian work experience can be gained through a work permit or as an international student.
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Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
Several Canadian provinces have a high demand for qualified veterinarians, including Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Ontario. If you prefer to live and work in a specific province, you can apply through its Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). Each PNP has unique criteria to increase your chances of receiving a provincial nomination.
Here are some of the top 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)
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Average Earnings for Veterinarians in Canada
Veterinarians in Canada typically earn an annual salary of around $98,364, which breaks down to approximately $50.44 per hour. For individuals from India starting in junior veterinary positions, the yearly income can be up to $64,807. On the other hand, veterinarians with extensive experience and those in senior roles can earn up to $137,500 annually.
Navigating the Competitive Express Entry Process for Canada PR
Securing permanent residence in Canada through Express Entry has become increasingly competitive. Therefore, thorough planning and strategic approaches are essential to enhance your chances. By working with top immigration consultants in Delhi, you can receive expert advice and tailored solutions to make informed decisions and improve your prospects.
