Teaching Jobs in Canada with Visa Sponsorship for Foreigners in 2025

Teaching jobs in Canada are in high demand, driven by the expanding education sector and a shortage of qualified educators across various regions. Foreign teachers are actively sought to fill these gaps.

This guide outlines how to apply for teaching jobs in Canada, and the top institutions offering visa sponsorship, and provides helpful links to help you secure a teaching position today.

Eligibility Criteria and Requirements for Teaching Jobs in Canada with Visa Sponsorship

Foreign applicants must meet specific criteria and requirements to be eligible for teaching jobs in Canada with visa sponsorship. 

These include:

• Educational Qualifications: A bachelor’s degree in education or a relevant subject area is typically required. Some provinces may require a teaching certificate or equivalent qualifications.
• Experience: Most teaching roles require at least 1-2 years of teaching experience, though this may vary depending on the institution or school level.
• Language Proficiency: Fluency in English or French is essential. Proof of language proficiency, such as IELTS or TEF test scores, may be required.
• Work Permit: A valid job offer from a Canadian employer is necessary to apply for a work permit. Employers often help guide applicants through the visa sponsorship process.
• Certification and Accreditation: Teachers may need to be licensed or certified by the provincial or territorial regulatory body. Requirements vary by region.
• Background Check: A criminal background check is typically required to ensure the safety and well-being of students.
• Additional Skills: Some positions may require specific certifications or experience, such as teaching special education, STEM subjects, or knowledge of local curricula.
• Application Process: You must follow the formal application procedures set by Canadian employers or through job portals like Job Bank, Indeed, or Education Canada.

How to Find and Apply for Teaching Jobs in Canada with Visa Sponsorship as a Foreigner

Here’s a step-by-step guide to finding and applying for teaching jobs in Canada with visa sponsorship as a foreigner:

Step 1: Research Job Opportunities

Start by researching job boards such as Education Canada, Job Bank, Indeed, and Workopolis, which list teaching job openings across Canada. 

Explore the career pages of school districts or institutions in the province or region where you want to teach. Look for positions that specifically mention visa sponsorship or foreign worker hiring. 

Focus on regions with teacher shortages, such as rural or northern areas, as they may offer more opportunities for foreign teachers.

Step 2: Check Eligibility and Qualifications

Before applying, ensure that the Canadian authorities or the relevant provincial licensing authority such as the Ontario College of Teachers or the British Columbia Teacher Regulation Branch recognize your credentials.

Additionally, check the language proficiency requirements for the province you are targeting. Foreign teachers must typically prove proficiency in English or French through tests like IELTS or TEF. 

Research whether the province requires specific certifications or additional training.

Step 3: Prepare Your Application Materials

Update your resume to reflect Canadian standards, highlighting your relevant teaching experience, certifications, and any special skills or subject expertise. 

Tailor your cover letter to the job you’re applying for, showing enthusiasm and why you are a good fit for the position. 

Gather references, such as letters of recommendation from your previous employers or educational institutions. Ensure that you have certified copies of your degree, teaching certificates, language proficiency proof, and, if needed, a criminal background check.

Step 4: Apply for Jobs

Submit your application directly through job listings on school websites or via portals like Job Bank, Workopolis, or Indeed. Be sure to follow the instructions on each job posting. 

Some teaching positions may be posted through recruitment agencies that specialize in placing foreign teachers in Canada. These agencies can assist you in finding a job and guiding you through the visa process. 

If you’re applying through an agency, make sure to confirm their services and fees before committing.

Step 5: Secure a Job Offer and Work Permit

Once you apply, wait for job offers. If selected, the employer will extend a formal job offer, which is necessary for obtaining a work permit. 

The employer will help guide you through the visa sponsorship process, submitting the necessary paperwork to Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). 

You’ll need to provide additional documentation, such as your medical exam and police clearance, before the work permit can be issued. Once approved, you’ll be granted permission to work as a teacher in Canada.

Step 6: Relocate and Begin Your Teaching Career

With your work permit approved, it’s time to plan your relocation. This involves securing housing, booking your travel, and preparing for life in Canada. 

When you arrive, settle into your new job, adapt to Canadian culture, and begin teaching. Your employer will assist you with any settlement services to ensure your smooth transition.

Step 7: Apply for Permanent Residency (Optional)

After gaining teaching experience in Canada, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residency through immigration programs like Express Entry or the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). 

These pathways allow you to remain in Canada long-term, offering you the opportunity to stay beyond the terms of your work permit.

Top Educational Institutions Offering Teaching Jobs In Canada With Visa Sponsorship

Several top educational institutions and recruitment agencies in Canada are actively hiring foreign teachers and offer visa sponsorship for qualified candidates. 

 Here are some of the top organizations offering teaching jobs in Canada:

Teach Away

Teach Away is a leading international teacher recruitment agency that specializes in placing foreign teachers in Canadian schools. They offer a wide range of teaching opportunities across various provinces, including public schools, private institutions, and language schools. 

Teach Away provides visa sponsorship and assistance throughout the application and immigration process for foreign teachers. 

Eligibility criteria include having a recognized teaching certification, relevant teaching experience, and meeting language proficiency requirements. 

To apply and view current job openings, visit Teach Away.

Surrey Schools

School districts in Canada, such as Surrey School District in British Columbia, often offer teaching jobs to foreign educators with visa sponsorship. These districts are particularly in need of teachers in subjects like mathematics, sciences, and French immersion. 

To qualify, foreign applicants need a teaching certificate recognized in Canada, a valid degree, and fluency in English or French. These districts typically offer comprehensive relocation support and visa sponsorship. 

Check job listings and apply directly on the Surrey School District website.

Randstad Canada

Randstad is a recruitment agency that places educators in various roles across Canada. They frequently offer visa sponsorship for international candidates in both primary and secondary schools, as well as private institutions. 

Applicants must hold recognized teaching credentials, be proficient in either English or French, and possess the necessary work experience. 

To find teaching opportunities and apply, visit the Randstad Canada website.

University of Toronto

The University of Toronto is one of Canada’s top-ranked institutions and regularly hires foreign educators for a wide range of teaching positions. They support visa sponsorship for qualified international candidates, especially in fields such as STEM, humanities, and language studies. 

The university requires foreign applicants to have a valid teaching credential or advanced degree equivalent to Canadian standards. 

Interested candidates can apply directly through their career portal here.

McGill University

McGill University, located in Montreal, is another prestigious Canadian institution offering opportunities for foreign educators. They offer visa sponsorship for international applicants who meet the academic and professional requirements. Positions are typically available for faculty members in various disciplines. 

Applicants should ensure they meet McGill’s specific qualifications, including a recognized teaching certificate and proficiency in English or French. 

Apply via McGill’s career site here.

The Average Salary for Teaching Jobs in Canada with Visa Sponsorship

Here’s a breakdown of the average salary for teaching jobs in Canada:

National Average Salary

The national average salary for teaching jobs in Canada varies based on factors such as location, subject, and education level. 

For hourly rates, teachers earn between $22 and $40 per hour, depending on their expertise and the region in which they work. Annually, full-time teaching positions offer salaries ranging from $45,000 to $80,000. 

Salary by Cities

• Toronto: $50,000 – $75,000/year ($25 – $36/hour). Salaries in Toronto, the largest city in Canada, are on the higher end due to the high demand for teachers, especially in secondary and post-secondary education.
• Vancouver: $48,000 – $70,000/year ($24 – $34/hour). Vancouver offers competitive salaries, particularly for those teaching in specialized subjects or higher education.
• Montreal: $42,000 – $60,000/year ($20 – $29/hour). Teachers in Montreal generally earn less than in cities like Toronto or Vancouver, but salaries are still competitive. The city’s lower cost of living contributes to these more modest figures.
• Calgary: $45,000 – $72,000/year ($22 – $35/hour). In Calgary, teachers can expect a broad salary range based on experience and subject specialization. The oil industry and overall economic growth in Alberta contribute to a high demand for educators. 
• Ottawa: $47,000 – $68,000/year ($23 – $33/hour). Ottawa, as the capital city, offers competitive salaries for teachers, especially in government-funded and bilingual education programs.

Salary by Provinces

• Ontario: $48,000 – $75,000/year ($24 – $36/hour). Ontario offers one of the highest salary ranges for teachers, particularly in urban centers like Toronto and Ottawa.
• British Columbia: $45,000 – $70,000/year ($22 – $34/hour). Teachers in British Columbia, especially in Vancouver and surrounding areas, enjoy competitive pay reflective of the province’s high cost of living.
• Alberta: $50,000 – $75,000/year ($24 – $36/hour). Alberta boasts some of the highest salaries for teachers in Canada, driven by a strong economy and significant investment in education.
• Quebec: $40,000 – $60,000/year ($19 – $29/hour). Salaries in Quebec are slightly lower compared to other provinces, but the cost of living is more affordable.
• Manitoba: $38,000 – $55,000/year ($18 – $27/hour). Manitoba provides moderate salaries for teachers, with rural areas often needing educators willing to relocate.

Salary by Employment Types

• Full-time Employment: $45,000 – $80,000/year. Full-time teachers typically receive comprehensive benefits and job security.
• Part-time Employment: $20 – $35/hour. Part-time positions are common in secondary schools or as adjunct faculty in universities, with hourly wages depending on subject and expertise.
• Contractual/Temporary Jobs: $22 – $40/hour. Contract teachers, who may be hired for short-term positions or specific projects, can earn competitive hourly rates but with limited benefits and job stability.

Salary by Experience Levels

• Entry-Level (0-2 Years): $40,000 – $50,000/year ($19 – $24/hour). Newly certified teachers or those with limited teaching experience often start at the lower end of the salary range.
• Mid-Level (3-5 Years): $50,000 – $65,000/year ($24 – $31/hour). Teachers with several years of experience, including those who have advanced in their careers, earn a higher wage.
• Senior-Level (6+ Years): $65,000 – $95,000/year ($31 – $45/hour). Experienced teachers in leadership positions, such as department heads or principals, can earn considerably more.

Salary by Industries and Divisions

• Public Schools (K-12): $45,000 – $75,000/year ($22 – $36/hour). Teachers in public schools, covering kindergarten through grade 12, enjoy stable salaries often determined by union agreements and years of experience.
• Private Schools: $50,000 – $80,000/year ($24 – $38/hour). Private schools often offer slightly higher salaries, especially in prestigious institutions.
• Post-Secondary Education (Colleges/Universities): $55,000 – $85,000/year ($26 – $41/hour). Professors and lecturers in colleges and universities earn more due to the higher qualifications required, such as a Master’s or Ph.D.
• Special Education: $50,000 – $75,000/year ($24 – $36/hour). Teachers in special education roles tend to earn slightly more due to the specialized training and skills required.
• Adult Education & ESL Teachers: $40,000 – $70,000/year ($19 – $34/hour). Adult educators, including those teaching English as a second language (ESL), can earn competitive salaries depending on their expertise and location.

Benefits of Teaching Jobs In Canada With Visa Sponsorship

Here are the benefits:

Visa Sponsorship and Immigration Support

Teaching jobs with visa sponsorship in Canada come with robust immigration assistance. Employers often guide candidates through the process of obtaining work permits, covering application fees, and assisting with necessary documentation. 

This support extends to family members, allowing spouses and children to relocate and even work or study in Canada.

Competitive Salaries and Benefits

Teachers in Canada receive attractive salaries, reflecting their qualifications, experience, and location. Additional benefits include comprehensive health insurance, dental and vision coverage, life insurance, and long-term disability plans. 

Pension schemes ensure financial security after retirement, and unions often negotiate favorable pay scales and allowances for teachers in specialized roles or remote areas.

Job Security and Stability

Teaching roles in Canada are known for their stability, particularly in public schools where union agreements ensure fair treatment and clear career progression. 

Teachers often receive contracts with renewal options, and tenure opportunities further enhance long-term employment security.

Global Recognition and Career Growth

Teaching in Canada is an excellent career move, as Canadian teaching credentials and work experience are highly regarded worldwide. 

Many institutions provide foreign teachers with mentorship programs, networking opportunities, and access to leadership roles, fostering both personal and professional growth.

Opportunities for Professional Development

Canada prioritizes lifelong learning for educators. Teachers can access employer-funded training, attend international conferences, and pursue advanced certifications like TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) or Montessori training. 

Diverse and Inclusive Work Environment

Working in Canada exposes teachers to students from various cultural, linguistic, and socioeconomic backgrounds. This experience equips educators with valuable skills in fostering inclusivity and adapting to different learning styles. 

Many institutions emphasize Indigenous education, offering teachers unique perspectives and methodologies.

Work-Life Balance

Teaching in Canada provides an excellent work-life balance, with shorter working hours compared to some professions and ample vacation time, including summer holidays and winter breaks. 

Schools promote wellness through mental health resources, gym facilities, and wellness programs tailored for educators.

Relocation Assistance and Settling-In Support

Many schools and educational organizations offer comprehensive relocation packages for foreign teachers. These packages may include airfare, temporary accommodation upon arrival, assistance in finding permanent housing, and guidance on banking, healthcare, and transportation. 

Some employers even provide orientation programs to familiarize teachers with local culture and practices.

Pathway to Permanent Residency

Teaching jobs with visa sponsorship often align with immigration programs like the Express Entry or the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). These jobs provide points for skilled worker categories, making it easier for teachers to obtain permanent residency. 

Many provinces actively recruit educators to address regional shortages, offering streamlined immigration pathways.

Access to High-Quality Education for Dependents

Teachers moving to Canada with families benefit from access to the country’s top-tier public education system for their children, often free or at a minimal cost. 

Additionally, many private institutions provide tuition discounts for teachers’ children, ensuring they receive a quality education.

Housing and Transportation Perks

Some schools offer housing allowances or subsidized accommodations, particularly for positions in remote or underserved areas.  Transportation benefits, such as free bus passes or car allowances, may be included, helping teachers manage their daily commute.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I become a teacher in Canada without a B.Ed. degree? 

While a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) is typically required, alternative certifications and experience may qualify you for roles like early childhood education, substitute teaching, or private tutoring.

Which city in Canada pays teachers the most? 

Major cities like Toronto, Calgary, and Vancouver generally offer the highest teacher salaries due to higher living costs and demand.

Is it hard to get hired as a teacher in Canada? 

The process can be competitive, particularly in urban centers, but demand in rural or underserved areas improves job prospects. Meeting provincial certification standards is key.

Where is the best place to live in Canada for teachers? 

Cities like Ottawa, Calgary, and Vancouver are great for teachers, offering competitive pay, vibrant communities, and access to professional development opportunities.

Is Canada facing a teacher shortage? 

Yes, Canada is experiencing a teacher shortage, particularly in STEM, special education, and French immersion, driven by growing student populations and retiring educators