The Canadian Occupational Projection System (COPS) website forecasts an additional shortage of 700 positions for respiratory therapists, clinical perfusionists, and cardiopulmonary technologists across the country by the year 2031.

1. A Complete Guide to Canadian
Immigration for Respiratory Therapists
Canada is experiencing a notable shortage of respiratory therapists, clinical perfusionists, and
cardiopulmonary technologists, creating increased prospects for foreign nationals to secure permanent
residence through targeted Express Entry system draws. This shortage is anticipated to expand further,
providing an optimistic outlook for those seeking opportunities in the healthcare sector.
Projected Shortage According to COPS
The Canadian Occupational Projection System (COPS) website forecasts an additional shortage of 700
positions for respiratory therapists, clinical perfusionists, and cardiopulmonary technologists across the
country by the year 2031. The total number of job openings in this field, resulting from both expansion
and replacement demand, is expected to reach 20,100, while the number of job seekers, including
school leavers, immigrants, and mobile individuals, is projected to be 19,400 during the period from
2022 to 2031.
Continued Labour Shortage Conditions Making Surge in Canadian Immigration
The COPS website emphasizes that the relatively similar projections for job openings and job seekers
over the next decade indicate that the existing labor shortage conditions in recent years are likely to
persist. This scenario is attributed to the growing demand for healthcare professionals, especially
respiratory therapists, clinical perfusionists, and cardiopulmonary technologists.
Role of Aging Baby Boomers: A significant driving force behind the increasing demand for these
healthcare workers is the aging population of Baby Boomers. As this demographic ages, the need for
respiratory therapists, clinical perfusionists, and cardiopulmonary technologists is expected to rise,
contributing to the sustained labor shortage in the healthcare sector.
The Canadian healthcare sector is experiencing significant growth, driven by factors such as the aging
population. This demographic shift not only amplifies the demand for diagnostic services related to
respiratory and cardiovascular health conditions but also creates new prospects for foreign nationals
seeking immigration to Canada. Insights from the Canadian Occupational Projection System (COPS)
website indicate that the evolving landscape, coupled with changes in Canada's Express Entry system,
opens doors for healthcare professionals, including respiratory therapists.
Impact of Aging Population on Diagnostic Services
The aging population in Canada is a key driver of growth in the healthcare sector, presenting a unique
opportunity for foreign respiratory therapists. The surge in seniors correlates with an increased demand
for diagnostic services, specifically those addressing respiratory and cardiovascular health conditions. As
Canada faces this demographic change, the need for skilled healthcare professionals becomes more
pronounced.

2. In response to the ongoing repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic, respiratory therapists play a crucial
role in the rehabilitation process. This heightened demand for their expertise presents a noteworthy
opportunity for foreign respiratory therapists considering Canadian immigration.
The integration of new medical technologies and advanced equipment in the Canadian healthcare
system is reshaping the industry. This technological evolution leads to an escalating demand for skilled
technologists in fields such as respiratory therapy, clinical perfusion, and cardiopulmonary technology—
positions that align with Canada's Express Entry system adjustments.
Express Entry System and New Pathways
The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has adapted the Express Entry system to
target 82 occupations, including respiratory therapists, clinical perfusionists, and cardiopulmonary
technologists. This strategic move not only addresses labor shortages in the healthcare sector but also
creates a new and promising pathway for immigration to Canada.
Job Prospects and Ratings: Exploring the federal government's Job Bank reveals 50 listed positions for
respiratory therapists, clinical perfusionists, and cardiopulmonary technologists. Classified under the
National Occupational Classification (NOC) 2021 system with the code 32103, these professions receive
favorable ratings such as "very good" in New Brunswick and "good" across the rest of the country,
highlighting promising job prospects for the next three years.
Changes in Canadian Immigration: Express Entry Opens Pathways for Workers
in Healthcare
In a groundbreaking move this May, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) expanded the
eligibility of workers in specific occupations for Express Entry draws. This marked a significant departure
from the previous approach, where draws were primarily based on immigration programs rather than
targeting occupations directly.
Shift in Express Entry System:
The flagship Express Entry selection system has traditionally focused on immigration programs.
However, the recent adjustments by IRCC now enable occupation-targeted draws, a move welcomed by
employers grappling with chronic labor shortages across the country. Former Immigration Minister Sean
Fraser emphasized the importance of these changes in addressing the needs of employers and
supporting economic growth.
Quote from Sean Fraser:
Expressing the sentiments echoed by employers nationwide, Sean Fraser stated, “Everywhere I go, I’ve
heard loud and clear from employers across the country who are experiencing chronic labor shortages.
These changes to the Express Entry system will ensure that they have the skilled workers they need to
grow and succeed."

3. Economic Growth and Support for French-Speaking Communities:
Fraser emphasized that the modifications to the Express Entry system not only address labor shortages
but also contribute to economic growth. Additionally, by increasing the number of French-proficient
candidates, the changes aim to bolster the vitality of French-speaking communities in Canada.
Wage Insights for Healthcare Professionals: In the healthcare sector, including respiratory therapists,
clinical perfusionists, and cardiopulmonary technologists, the median hourly wage in Canada stands at
$37. However, this figure varies, ranging from $26 to $48.08, as reported by Job Bank. These insights
provide a glimpse into the diverse wage landscape within the healthcare professions eligible for Express
Entry draws.
The recent developments in the Canadian Express Entry system signify a paradigm shift, offering a
targeted approach to address labor shortages in specific occupations. As the country strives for
economic growth and inclusivity, these changes aim to meet the demands of employers while
supporting the diversity and vitality of communities across Canada.
Opportunities for Respiratory Therapists in Canada
Respiratory therapists, along with clinical perfusionists and cardiopulmonary technologists, can
potentially earn up to $93,756 annually in Canada based on a standard 37.5-hour work week. The recent
changes to the Express Entry system, allowing occupation-targeted draws, have reshaped the landscape
for skilled professionals seeking to immigrate to Canada.
Eligibility Criteria for Express Entry:
To be eligible for immigration through Express Entry occupation-targeted draws, candidates in these
healthcare occupations must have a minimum of six months of continuous work experience in Canada
or abroad within the past three years. This experience can be acquired as temporary foreign workers
with work permits or as international students with student visas.
Responsive Express Entry Streams:
The adjustments made in May have rendered the Express Entry streams, including the Federal Skilled
Worker (FSW) program, Federal Skilled Trades (FST) program, and Canadian Experience Class (CEC), as
well as parts of the Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP), more responsive to current labor market needs.
Occupation-Specific Draws:
Canada signaled its intent to conduct occupation-specific draws through Express Entry in June of the
previous year. Amendments to the Immigration, Refugee, and Protection Act allowed invitations based
on specific occupations and other attributes, such as language proficiency. The majority of Canada's
provinces have been issuing occupation-specific invitations for several years.
Consultative Approach and Reporting:
Under the changes to the act, the immigration minister is mandated to consult various stakeholders,
including provinces, industry members, unions, employers, worker advocacy groups, settlement
provider organizations, and immigration researchers, before announcing new categories. Additionally,

4. Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) must annually report to parliament on the chosen
categories and the reasons behind those choices.
Rising Demand and High-Skilled Admissions:
The Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) highlights a doubling of occupations facing
shortages between 2019 and 2021. Federal high-skilled admissions accounted for a significant portion of
overall French-speaking admissions outside Quebec from 2018 to 2022, ranging from 34 to 40 percent.
Conclusion:
For respiratory therapists eyeing opportunities in Canada, the Express Entry system's recent
modifications offer a promising pathway. The occupation-targeted draws, responsive streams, and
consultative approach signal Canada's commitment to addressing labor market needs and fostering
skilled immigration. As the demand for skilled professionals in healthcare grows, aspiring immigrants
stand to benefit from these dynamic changes in the Canadian immigration landscape.