Highest-Paying Jobs in Canada for International Students 2026
Canada is one of the most sought after destinations among international students, as it continues to provide high quality education, diverse employment opportunities, and a superior standard of living. Given the rise in demand for skilled workers, there are ample opportunities, regardless of past experience in Canada, for students from across the globe. There is a demand for international graduates in various career sectors in Canada, such as technology, hospitality, healthcare to name a few.
Top career options for students from around the world is the primary goal of this blog. We will take a look at high-paying jobs in Canada for 2026, part-time work while studying, and Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) after graduation. This permit allows students to work in Canada for up to three years (depending on the length of the programme) post graduation. This work experience is vital in qualifying candidates for PR in Canada for international students.
Here we will explore not only high-paying jobs in Canada, but also industries with the highest-paying jobs in Canada, and tips on how to grow your job search in Canada as an international students.
Top 10 High-Paying Jobs in Canada
Canada provides competitive wages in diverse job sectors, which is inviting to international students wanting to develop a career. There are some occupations that pay extremely well, particularly in the fields of technology, healthcare, finance, and engineering. Here are some of the high-paying careers in Canada for 2026:
- Medical Specialists (Surgeons, Cardiologists, Anesthesiologists)
- Chief Executive Officers (CEO)
- Legal (Lawyers and Judges)
- Tech (Software Engineers and IT Managers)
- Finance (Managers and Investment Bankers)
- Pharmacists
- Oil and Gas Engineers
- Dentists
- Airline Pilots
- Mining Engineers
These positions provide both financial security and potential PR in Canada for international students who want to make Canada their home. High-demand jobs in Canada include roles in various industries actively hiring international graduates. When choosing the programme you wish to study in Canada, it is recommended to pursue a degree programme that will qualify you to pursue a career in the following areas.
Medical Specialist Jobs in Canada
Medical specialists (Surgeons, Cardiologists, and Anaesthesiologists) perform major and complex surgeries; diagnose and treat heart-related conditions, and provide anaesthesia during surgery. Medical specialists continue to be high-demand jobs in Canada due to newer treatments and technology in the field of medicine.
Required Skills
- Technical: Surgical techniques, medical knowledge, equipment proficiency
- Soft: Communication, teamwork, empathy
- Problem-solving: Quick decision-making, critical thinking
- Relevant Course: Doctor of Medicine (MD)
Popular Universities
- University of Toronto
- McGill University
- University of British Columbia
- University of Alberta
- McMaster University
Top Hiring Companies
- Provincial health authorities
- Private Hospitals
- Research Institutions
Average Annual Salary (Entry-Level): CA $150,000 - $250,000
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Jobs in Canada
Demand for CEO jobs in Canada with digital expertise and a global perspective is increasing. Chief Executive Officers hold much of the strategic, decision-making, and leadership functions of organisations. In the future, many CEO positions in Canada will still be all high-paying positions due to the CEO's focus on digital transformation, sustainability, and global economic uncertainty.
Required Skills
- Technical: Financial management, strategic planning, data analysis
- Soft: Leadership, communication, adaptability
- Problem-solving: Strategic thinking, risk management
- Relevant Course: Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Popular Universities
- University of Toronto (Rotman School of Management)
- Western University (Ivey Business School)
- McGill University (Desautels Faculty of Management)
- University of British Columbia (Sauder School of Business)
- York University (Schulich School of Business)
Top Hiring Companies
Major corporations across various industries, tech startups, consulting firms
Average Annual Salary (Entry-Level): CA $83,000 - $125,000
Also Read: Best Business Schools in Canada for International Students
Legal Jobs in Canada
Lawyers provide legal guidance and services to their clients, and judges preside over court cases. Demand for legal professionals specialising in technology, intellectual property, and environmental law jobs in Canada is growing. The ongoing development of laws in areas like technology and the environment will continue to drive demand for legal professionals in Canada.
Required Skills
- Technical: Legal research, case analysis, courtroom procedures
- Soft: Negotiation, public speaking, ethical judgment
- Problem-solving: Analytical thinking, conflict resolution
Relevant Course: Bachelor of Laws (LLB) or Juris Doctor (JD)
Popular Universities
- University of Toronto
- McGill University
- University of British Columbia
- University of Alberta
- University of Ottawa
Top Hiring Companies
Law firms, government agencies, corporate legal departments
- Average Salary of a Judge: CA $310,00 - $396,700
- Average Base Salary of Lawyers : CA $60,000 - $110,000
Also Read: Best Law Colleges in Canada
Tech Jobs in Canada
Software Engineers and IT Managers create, maintain and administer software systems, including the IT infrastructure. With the ongoing surge in AI, cloud computing, and cybersecurity, IT and software professionals can anticipate significant earning potential and rewarding career trajectories in Canada. This is supported by strong demand resulting from digital transformation across various sectors and the escalating importance of cybersecurity.
Required Skills
- Technical: Programming languages, system architecture, cloud platforms
- Soft: Teamwork, communication, adaptability
- Problem-solving: Debugging, algorithmic thinking
Relevant Courses
- Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Computer Science
- Software Engineering
- Information Technology
- Computer Engineering
Popular Universities
- University of Toronto
- University of Waterloo
- University of British Columbia
- McGill University
- University of Alberta
Top Hiring Companies
Tech giants, startups, financial institutions, government agencies
- Average Salary: CA $68,000 - $90,000
Finance Jobs in Canada
Demand for finance jobs in Canada is growing for professionals with expertise in sustainable finance and fintech. Financial Managers and Investment Bankers manage financial operations, investments, and provide strategic financial advice. Finance and investment will continue to be high-demand jobs in Canada due to increased focus on sustainable finance, fintech integration, and global market analysis.
Required Skills
- Technical: Financial modeling, risk assessment, market analysis
- Soft: Negotiation, client relations, ethical decision-making
- Problem-solving: Strategic planning, crisis management
Relevant Courses
- Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) with a specialisation in Finance
- Economics
- Business Administration
- Master of Finance (MFin)
- Master of Financial Risk Management (MFRM)
Popular Universities
- University of Toronto (Rotman School of Management)
- Western University (Ivey Business School)
- McGill University (Desautels Faculty of Management)
- University of British Columbia (Sauder School of Business)
- York University (Schulich School of Business)
Top Hiring Companies
Banks, investment firms, corporate finance departments
- Average Annual Salary of Financial Manager (Entry-Level): CA $60,000 - $85,000.
Pharmacist Jobs in Canada
In Canada, a growing demand for pharmacists, fueled by an aging population and evolving healthcare models, positions pharmacists to play an even greater role in primary care and medication management. Consequently, pharmacy is projected to remain a high-paying career path in Canada in 2026 and beyond.
Required Skills
- Technical: Pharmacology knowledge, medication dispensing, patient assessment
- Soft: Communication, empathy, attention to detail
- Problem-solving: Drug interaction analysis, patient education
Relevant Course
- Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy (BScPhm)
- Bachelor of Pharmacy (BPharm)
Popular Universities
- University of British Columbia
- University of Alberta
- University of Saskatchewan
- University of Waterloo
- University of Manitoba
Top Hiring Companies
Retail pharmacies, hospitals, pharmaceutical companies
- Average Annual Salary (Entry-level): CA $78,000 - $95,000
Petroleum Engineering Jobs in Canada
Oil and Gas engineers design and manage oil and gas extraction, processing, and distribution systems. Oil and gas engineers are focused on sustainable practices and alternative energy integration, making it one of the high-demand jobs in Canada. Demand for oil and gas engineer jobs in Canada is shifting towards sustainable energy practices and diversification.
Required Skills
- Technical: Reservoir analysis, drilling techniques, environmental impact assessment
- Soft: Project management, teamwork, adaptability
- Problem-solving: Resource optimisation, risk assessment
Relevant Courses
- Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Petroleum Engineering
- Chemical Engineering with a focus on Petroleum
Popular Universities
- University of Alberta
- University of Calgary
- University of Saskatchewan
- Memorial University of Newfoundland
- Dalhousie University
Top Hiring Companies
Oil and gas companies, energy consultancies, government agencies
Average Annual Salary (Entry-Level): CA $73,000 - $95,000
Dentist Jobs in Canada
Dentists diagnose oral diseases and conditions, provide oral care and treatment of dental disease and conditions, and provide a variety of preventive care programmes. Dentists are using rapidly evolving advanced technology and continue to be high-demand and lucrative careers in Canada through 2026. Demand for dentist jobs in Canada continues to be on a steady rise due to growing awareness of oral health importance and cosmetic dentistry.
Required Skills
- Technical: Dental procedures, X-ray interpretation, anesthesia administration
- Soft: Patient care, communication, manual dexterity
- Problem-solving: Diagnostic reasoning, treatment planning
Relevant Course
- Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS)
- Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD)
Popular Universities
- University of Toronto
- McGill University
- University of British Columbia
- University of Alberta
- University of Saskatchewan
Top Hiring Companies
Private dental practices, dental clinics, hospitals
Average Annual Salary (Entry -Level): CA $95,000 - $130,000
Airline Pilot Jobs in Canada
Airline pilots fly aircraft for the purpose of transporting passengers and cargo. Commercial pilots will use increased automation, focus on safety management, and have high-demand careers in Canada. Demand for airline pilot jobs in Canada is expected to grow with increasing air travel and cargo transportation.
Required Skills
- Technical: Aircraft operation, navigation systems, weather interpretation
- Soft: Communication, decision-making, stress management
- Problem-solving: Emergency procedures, route optimisation
Relevant Courses
While universities don't typically offer full pilot training programmes leading directly to an airline pilot license, they offer aviation-related degrees that can be a pathway. Students often attend specialised flight schools after or concurrently with a university degree. Relevant university programmes include: Aviation Management, Aeronautical Engineering.
Popular Universities
- University of Waterloo
- Western University
- University of British Columbia
- York University
- Concordia University
Top Hiring Companies
Major airlines, cargo carriers, charter companies
Average Salary: CA $220,000 - $350,000 per year (for 6+ years of experience)
Mining Engineering Jobs in Canada
Mining engineers design, develop and supervise the processes of extracting minerals from the earth. Mining engineers specialising in sustainability and automation technologies will continue to be part of in-demand occupations in Canada. The demand for mining engineer jobs in Canada is influenced by global mineral prices and the shift towards sustainable mining practices.
Required Skills
- Technical: Geological assessment, mine design, safety protocols
- Soft: Project management, environmental awareness, teamwork
- Problem-solving: Resource optimisation, risk management
Relevant Courses
- Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) in Mining Engineering
- Geological Engineering with a focus on Mining
Popular Universities
- University of Alberta
- University of British Columbia
- McGill University
- Queen's University
- University of Saskatchewan
Top Hiring Companies
Mining companies, engineering consultancies, government agencies
- Average Annual Base Salary: CA $35,000 - $60,000
Related Article: Popular Universities in Canada
How to Find Jobs in Canada as an International Student
As a international student in Canada, finding a job can be a challenge; however, with a strategy, you can find part-time work while you study and then full-time employment post your graduation. To increase your chances of employment, here are some tips for students on a student permit in Canada looking for jobs:
- Use Job Portals in Canada: Many websites such as Indeed, LinkedIn, and Workopolis post thousands of job openings across industries.
- Attend Job Fairs and Networking Events: Universities and cities host career fairs where you can speak with employers and professionals in the industry.
- Look for Part-Time Jobs in Canada While Studying: Many international students will generally work in retail, hospitality or customer service positions.
- Research Companies That Sponsor Work Visas: A number of employers in Canada are willing to hire international talent, as well as facilitate work permits for international workers.
- Use University Career Services: Most universities in Canada have career counselling, job postings, and resume workshops that are available to you as a student.
- Apply for Co-op and Internship Programmes: Several academic programmes in Canada include co-op placements, which can be beneficial for job prospects in Canada for international students.
- Customise Your Resume for Each Application: Canadian employers prefer resumes that highlight relevant skills and experiences.
- Improve Your Communication Skills: Strong English or French language skills can make you more competitive in the job market.
- Join Professional Associations: Many industries have associations that offer job postings, training, and networking opportunities.
- Stay Informed About Work Permit Regulations: Understanding visa policies, post-graduate work permits (PGWP), and immigration pathways can help you plan your career in Canada.
Using a mix of online job portals, networking, and university resources can enable you to find jobs in Canada successfully. Follow the above job searching methods and you will have a greater chance of finding the right job in Canada while you study and after you graduate. Need personalised guidance on studying and working in Canada? AECC can help you navigate job opportunities and career pathways.
Tax Considerations for High-Paying Jobs in Canada
All income in Canada is subject to taxation, so whether you study or work in a high-income sector, you will be taxed in Canada for that income. Canadian income tax is progressive, meaning that higher salaries pay a higher income tax percentage.
How Much Tax You'll Pay on a High Salary
The federal income tax on jobs in Canada ranges from 15% to 33%, with provincial tax rates added based on location. Employers deduct taxes, Canada Pension Plan (CPP) contributions, and Employment Insurance (EI) premiums from salaries.
For example, in Ontario, someone earning CA $100,000 could pay CA $25,000 - $30,000 in total deductions, leaving a take-home income of CA $70,000 - $75,000. Tax credits and deductions (e.g., tuition fees, work expenses) can help reduce tax burdens. Despite taxes, salaries in Canada remain significantly higher than in international.
Read More: Costs of Living in Canada as an International Student
Pathways to Permanent Residency Through Jobs in Canada
Many international students and workers, including international students, use jobs in Canada as a pathway to PR in Canada. Several immigration programmes prioritise applicants with Canadian work experience, making employment an advantage in securing permanent residency.
Express Entry System and Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS)
The Express Entry system ranks candidates for PR based on factors like education, language skills, and work experience.
- Canadian work experience improves CRS scores, increasing the chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for PR in Canada.
- While job offers previously provided bonus points under the Express Entry system, have shifted the focus, making Canadian work experience an even more significant factor in the CRS.
- Education in Canada and strong language proficiency further enhance CRS scores, making it easier for international students seeking jobs in Canada to improve their PR prospects.
Provincial Nominee Programmes (PNPs) Linked to In-Demand Jobs
PNPs allow provinces to select candidates for PR based on labour market needs and in-demand jobs in Canada.
- Some provinces prioritise specific occupations facing worker shortages.
- Job offers are required for certain PNP streams and can boost eligibility.
- A PNP nomination adds 600 points to a candidate's CRS score, significantly increasing the chances of PR approval in Canada.
Canadian Experience Class (CEC) for Students with Work Experience
The CEC programme is designed for candidates with Canadian work experience, including international students who have worked in Canada after graduation.
- Requires at least one year of skilled work experience in Canada.
- Part of the Express Entry system, making it a fast-track option for PR.
- A popular pathway for graduates on Post-Graduate Work Permits (PGWP).
While jobs in Canada don't guarantee PR in Canada for international students. Having important work experience can strengthen the application and also enhance eligibility for important immigration programmes. Understanding these pathways can help international students create their career and immigration plan in a systematic manner.
Also Read: List of Best Permanent Residency Courses in Canada
Challenges Faced by International Students in Finding Jobs in Canada
Lack of experience or poor networking opportunities is often a hurdle that many international students face when they are seeking jobs in Canada. If they are informed about the situation, it can help them cope with the situation.
- Lack of Canadian Work Experience: Employers often prefer candidates familiar with the Canadian work environment.
Solution: Start with internships or part-time jobs to gain experience. - Limited Professional Network: Building connections takes time, making job searches harder.
Solution: Attend networking events, job fairs, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. - Work Permit Restrictions: International students have limits on work hours.
Solution: Look for on-campus jobs or co-op programmes that provide work opportunities. - Credential Recognition Issues: Some professions require additional certification.
Solution: Research required credentials and take necessary courses in advance.
International students have access to opportunities to get interesting jobs in Canada, but when it comes to finding and landing jobs, it will likely require effort on their part, networking, and a strategic job search approach.
Finding jobs in Canada as a international student requires effort, but the right approach makes it possible. Whether you need guidance on job searching, work permits, or PR in Canada, expert support can make a difference. Contact AECC today. We provide personalised advice on studying and finding the right jobs in Canada.