Where there is a need for doctors, nurses and other healthcare workers, there is also a need for pharmacists. There are some jobs that simply go hand in hand.
Are you a qualified pharmacist? Are you looking for growth in your career and want a better quality of life? If you answered yes, then read on!
How to Immigrate to Canada as a Pharmacist?
Since Canada wants to welcome pharmacists, immigration for these professionals is relatively easy. Let’s have a closer look at how it works.
Immigration Programs for Pharmacists
There are many options available for international pharmacists who want to come to Canada, here are three of the most efficient ones:
Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP)
This is a fantastic program and a quick way for a foreign pharmacist to immigrate to Canada because the MPNP has an in-demand list of occupations that includes pharmacists.
The program works under the Express Entry system so the chances of being selected in a draw are much higher. For this program, language skills are very important.
Here you may learn more about how the MPNP works.
British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BCPNP)
BC PNP has a stream for healthcare professionals and the province holds weekly PNP draws.
For anyone looking to come to Canada quickly, this is another great option. In order to be considered for the draw, candidates need to register a profile online.
Your profile will be evaluated and given a score. The highest-ranked candidates are issued invitations during draws.
You may learn more about how BCPNP works here.
Express Entry System
Express Entry system gathers all the applications from three different programs. For a pharmacist, the best program to submit your application under is the Federal Skilled Worker Program.
Through the FSWP you can immigrate to Canada as a pharmacist. Like most programs, you will have to qualify based on the selection criteria and score high enough to be issued an invitation.
When applying you will need to submit the following documents in your application package:
- International English Language Testing System (IELTS) results;
- Police clearance;
- Your identification cards, passport or birth records;
- Biometrics;
- Medical exam documents;
- Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)
You may learn more about how Express Entry works here.
Immigration from Other English-Speaking Countries
Immigrating to Canada from the UK, USA or Australia?
When immigrating to Canada from any one of these three, English-Speaking countries, the process is slightly less complicated since the educational standards and teachings are on par and the type of healthcare provided is also very similar.
The language and cultural similarities also play a significant role in trimming down the learning curve.
In short, international pharmacists from the UK, USA or Australia tend to assimilate a lot faster. They also tend to do very well for themselves.
Work as a Pharmacist in Canada
Check Now If You are Eligible For One of Canada’s Working Programs or Just Book a Free Consultation Call with An Immigration Expert
What is life in Canada like for Foriegn Pharmacists?
It’s no secret that Canada is facing significant shortages in the healthcare industry, so now is a great time for a foreign pharmacist to consider moving to Canada.
The pharmaceutical field is a very lucrative one and it’s a highly respected career in Canada. Not to mention you have job security since people always need medication.
Depending on where you work and what kind of pharmacist you are, you can make anywhere between $84,000 to well over $120,000 a year! Individuals who own their own pharmacies can make even more.
Requirements for Foreign Pharmacists in Canada
What does the overseas pharmacist registration in Canada consist of?
Once you’ve started the application process, you may be wondering how you’ll become a pharmacist in Canada.
Will you have to start your education from the beginning?
Or can you pick up where you left off?
An international pharmacist in Canada can definitely work as a pharmacist but they must meet all the criteria first.
Unfortunately, since pharmacists are regulated through the province, the requirements do vary from one province to another. However, there are some basic steps that are the same:
1. Register on Pharmacists Gateway Canada
2. Pharmacy Examining Board of Canada (PEBC) will review your application to ensure ECA and training meets the Canadian standards. Your skills and experience will also be reviewed. You will have to take a written exam and pass an Objectively Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE).
3. Register with the provincial pharmacy regulating body.
4. Successfully complete a structured, practical training program.
5. Receive license to practice.
How to Find a Job in Canada
Finding a job for pharmacists in Canada is totally doable.
Some popular job boards for pharmacist jobs include:
With technology where it’s at and virtual job interviews, it’s never too early to start searching for the perfect job. In fact, you can start looking and applying for jobs even before submitting your application to immigrate to Canada.
Keep in mind that having a job offer in hand can go a long way towards having your application approved and this means you’ll be employed and financially secure from day one!
Where to Find Help with Immigration?
To simply the entire process and make it much easier on yourself, the best thing you can do is hire the services of a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC).
They are knowledgeable and experienced in dozens of different programs and can optimize your chances of succeeding.
An immigration agency or RCIC’s job doesn’t just end with you arriving in Canada. They can help with other things as well such as tailoring and format your resume; help you look for jobs and prepare you for interviews.
An RCIC may even help you look for jobs before you immigrate. With any luck, you might even land one before coming to Canada!
Still wondering if you should take the plunge? Don’t wait too long and miss your shot. In Canada’s post-pandemic world, they need more healthcare workers, and that includes pharmacists just like you.
