Loading...
NOC 32103TEER 2Healthcare
Respiratory Therapist Immigration to Canada
Complete pathway guide for respiratory therapists moving to Canada. Explore Express Entry, provincial programs, requirements, and job prospects.
NOC Code
32103
TEER Category
TEER 2
Median Salary
$72,000
Very High Demand
Overview
Respiratory Therapist Pathway to Canada
Respiratory therapists are critical healthcare professionals for managing breathing disorders and critical care ventilation. COVID-19 highlighted severe shortages that persist.
Healthcare category Express Entry draws target respiratory therapists. Provincial programs offer pathways especially for rural hospitals.
Provincial registration required. Process involves credential assessment and competency examination. ICU and neonatal RT experience highly valued.
Expert Immigration Support
Get personalized guidance from RCIC-licensed consultants specializing in healthcare worker immigration.
Book ConsultationCalculate CRS ScoreLearn About Express EntryRCIC License: R515110
Immigration Pathways
Eligible Programs for Respiratory Therapists
Multiple pathways available depending on your qualifications and circumstances.
Express Entry - Healthcare Category
Healthcare draws offer lower CRS for respiratory therapists with experience.
Provincial Nominee Program
All provinces actively recruit RTs for hospitals and critical care units.
Rural & Northern Immigration Pilot
Rural hospitals desperately need respiratory therapists.
Requirements
What You Need to Qualify
Key requirements for respiratory therapist immigration to Canada.
Education
Bachelor's or diploma in Respiratory Therapy from recognized program (typically 2-4 years).
Experience
Minimum 1 year licensed respiratory therapy practice in last 3 years.
Language
CLB 7 minimum (IELTS 6.0). CLB 8-9 preferred for clinical communication.
Licensing
CBRC certification and provincial registration required ($2,000-3,000 total).
Express Entry
Express Entry for Respiratory Therapists
Healthcare draws lower CRS. RTs with CLB 9 and 3 years experience score 420-460.
Category-Based Draws
Respiratory Therapists are eligible for category-based Express Entry draws, which typically have lower CRS cut-offs than general draws. This significantly improves your chances of receiving an ITA.
Typical CRS Range
400-470
Processing Time
6 months
Employment Outlook
Job Market & Settlement
What to expect when you arrive in Canada as a respiratory therapist.
Time to Employment
3-6 months
Average time to secure first job in Canada
Top Cities for Respiratory Therapists:
TorontoVancouverCalgaryEdmontonWinnipeg
Job Search Tips
Start CBRC process early (6-12 months). Contact CSRT and provincial RT associations. ICU experience highly valued. Hospitals hire actively. Consider smaller cities - faster hiring and settlement support. Neonatal and pediatric RT specializations in demand.
Top Employer Types
Hospitals (ICU, ER, NICU)
Long-term care facilities
Home care agencies
Sleep disorder clinics
Rehabilitation centers
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about respiratory therapist immigration to Canada
How long does respiratory therapy licensing take?
CBRC credential evaluation: 3-6 months. CBRC exam preparation and sitting: 2-4 months. Provincial registration: 1-2 months. Total: 6-12 months. Can work as therapy assistant during process in some provinces. Start CBRC before arrival if possible.
Can I work as RT while completing licensing?
Limited options. Some provinces allow supervised practice or work as cardiopulmonary technician during licensing. Cannot provide independent RT care until CBRC certified and provincially registered. Most RTs complete licensing before full practice.
What is CBRC exam pass rate?
CBRC exam: 70-80% pass rate for international graduates with preparation. CSRT offers study materials. Review courses available. Most candidates pass within 1-2 attempts. Proper preparation essential - exam covers Canadian standards of practice.
What specializations are in demand for RTs?
Critical care/ICU (highest demand). Neonatal/NICU. Emergency department. Sleep disorders. Home mechanical ventilation. Pulmonary rehabilitation. ECMO (extracorporeal). Generalist RTs most employable. ICU experience commands premium.
What is salary range for respiratory therapists?
New graduate: $60-70K. Experienced: $72-85K. Specialized (NICU, ECMO): $80-95K. Supervisor: $90-110K. Shift premiums for nights/weekends. Overtime opportunities. Hospital positions offer pension and benefits. BC and Alberta typically highest salaries.
Related Occupations
Ready to Immigrate as a Respiratory Therapist?
Our RCIC-licensed consultants specialize in healthcare worker immigration. Book a consultation to discuss your pathway to Canadian permanent residence.