This brief guide will give you all the vital details related to Canadian immigration as an optometrist. Navigating the path to Canadian immigration as an optometrist presents a myriad of opportunities and challenges. With its robust healthcare system and growing demand for skilled professionals, Canada stands as an enticing destination for optometrists seeking to advance their careers and embrace new horizons. This blog delves into the intricacies of the immigration process, offering insights on visa options, licensure requirements, and employment prospects tailored specifically to optometry professionals. Whether you’re a seasoned practitioner or a recent graduate aspiring to practice in Canada, this comprehensive guide aims to illuminate the steps and considerations essential for a successful transition to the Great White North.

What are the employment prospects for Optometrists seeking Canadian immigration?

Optometrists tend to play a vital role as they cater to eye care patients. In Canada, these people usually earn over $51,000 on a yearly basis based on their work experience. Medical professionals have a higher demand and they are more than welcome to work in this country. A previous survey in 2012 revealed about the rising visual disability in Canada among those aged 15 years. These types of children account to 2.8 percent of Canadians.

As far as the provinces are concerned, the wages differ for each province. In British Columbia, the Optometrists earn between $32,011 and $135,876 (from low to high). However, the median salary range is around $73,717. In Ontario, Optometrists earn a median income of $86,806 and a higher income of $179,461.

In Quebec, these Optometrists could earn a median income of $31,923 and a higher range of $175,448. Overall, Quebec appears to have the highest income for Optometrists. Meanwhile, in Quebec, professionals can earn the highest average income.

What are the duties of an Optometrist in Canada?

Optometrists in Canada will need to perform the following duties:

  • Conduct a thorough examination of a patient’s eyes using specialized instruments to understand visual efficiency. 
  • Prescribe and offer non-surgical treatment to maintain, enhance, and rectify vision. 
  • Provide or prescribe a patient with eyeglasses, visual aids, and contact lenses. 
  • Impart information to eye patients regarding ocular hygiene, preventive measures, and treatment options. 
  • Ask the patients to consult specialists if necessary for ocular diseases and systemic problems.

Canadian immigration as an Optometrist – What are the visa options?

Optometrists are currently highly sought-after in Canada, making them eligible to pursue permanent residency through the Healthcare Occupations Category within the Express Entry system.

This system operates on a merit-based approach aimed at selecting skilled workers for immigration to Canada. Additionally, Optometrists can explore alternative routes to permanent residency, including Provincial Nominee Programs or obtaining an employer-sponsored work visa.

These pathways offer diverse opportunities for Optometrists looking to establish themselves professionally and personally in Canada. For comprehensive guidance on visa options and expert assistance in navigating the immigration process as an Optometrist, don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with our experienced immigration professionals today.

Conclusion

Canada Job Bank, a prominent employment platform, claims that Optometrists are likely to flourish in Canada for at least nine more years. The lack of Optometrists will persist between 2022 and 2031 despite the entry of newcomers from all across the globe. The immigration department, IRCC, chose to implement the category-based draws under the Express Entry system. Healthcare job positions are always running short of adequate professionals in Canada, and Optometrists also fall under this category.

Do you have any queries on Canadian immigration? Get in touch with our immigration representatives at NavaImmigration by writing to us at [email protected].