A kinesiologist is a healthcare professional specializing in the study of human movement and exercise. They play a crucial role in assessing and improving physical fitness, rehabilitation, and overall well-being. Kinesiologists are experts in the science of movement and are trained to design personalized exercise programs, conduct functional assessments, and provide valuable insights into improving an individual’s physical health.
With this understanding, let’s explore the rising demand for kinesiologists and other healthcare professionals in Canada, offering opportunities for foreign nationals to secure permanent residency through occupation-targeted Express Entry draws.
Revamping Express Entry for Labor Market Needs
In May, Canadian immigration authorities made a significant announcement. They revealed their plan to invite foreign nationals to immigrate to Canada through occupation-targeted Express Entry draws. These draws are designed to target 82 specific occupations in healthcare, technology, trades, transport, and agriculture. Among these occupations is that of the kinesiologist, along with other professional roles in therapy and assessment, categorized under the National Occupational Classification (NOC) 2021 system with the code 31204.
Eligibility and Opportunities for Kinesiologists
Candidates seeking to apply through these occupation-targeted draws must possess a minimum of six months of continuous work experience in Canada or abroad within the past three years, specifically in one of these designated occupations. This experience could have been acquired while working in Canada as temporary foreign workers with valid work permits or as international students with student visas.
In Canada, the demand for kinesiologists and other professional roles in therapy and assessment remains strong. In early August, the Indeed.ca job-hunting website listed 434 job opportunities in this field. Kinesiologists in Canada have the potential to earn competitive salaries, with a median hourly wage of $25. However, this wage varies, with some earning as low as $18 per hour and others reaching as high as $43.96, according to Jobbank.
Based on a standard 37.5-hour workweek, kinesiologists can anticipate a median annual income of up to $85,722.
Canada’s Progressive Immigration Initiatives
Canada’s decision to implement occupation-specific draws through the Express Entry system was signaled in June of the previous year. Changes to the Immigration, Refugee and Protection Act paved the way for invitations based on occupations and other factors, such as language proficiency. Many provinces in Canada have been issuing occupation-specific invitations for several years.
Under these changes to the act, the immigration minister is required to consult various stakeholders, including provinces, territories, industry representatives, unions, employers, worker advocacy groups, settlement provider organizations, and immigration experts, before announcing new categories.
Additionally, IRCC must provide an annual report to parliament, explaining the chosen categories and the rationale behind these selections.
Understanding the role of a kinesiologist in healthcare is essential in navigating the path to permanent residency in Canada. The recent healthcare investments and responsive immigration policies reflect Canada’s commitment to economic growth, labor market needs, and diversity. This path not only benefits skilled workers but also contributes to the vitality of various communities across Canada.