Are you looking for a data scientist job in Canada but worried about visa sponsorship? You’re not alone. Finding a job in data science is hard enough, and it becomes even more challenging if you’re not a Canadian citizen or permanent resident. However, there is no need to worry; this guide will cover everything you need to know about data scientist jobs in Canada and visa sponsorship.

Current State of Data Science in Canada

Canada is rapidly becoming a hub for data science, with companies of all sizes and sectors hiring data scientists. In 2021, the Canadian government announced an investment of $500 million over the next five years to establish a national AI growth strategy. This investment aims to position Canada as a leader in artificial intelligence research and development.

The investment has already started to yield results, as many companies in Canada are investing heavily in data science and AI. According to a report by CBRE Group, Toronto is the fastest-growing tech market in North America, with the city adding more than 80,000 tech jobs between 2013 and 2018.

Current Job Market for Data Scientists in Canada

The job market for data scientists in Canada is very competitive, with several companies looking for experienced and skilled data scientists. In addition to traditional tech companies, data scientists are in high demand in sectors such as healthcare, finance, and marketing.

According to Glassdoor, the average salary for a data scientist in Canada is between $77,000 and $125,000 per year. However, this salary can vary greatly based on several factors such as experience, location, and the specific industry you work in.

Visa Sponsorship for Data Science Candidates

Visa sponsorship for data scientists in Canada can be challenging, but several options are available. To work in Canada, you must obtain a work permit. There are several ways to get a work permit, but the most common is through the following programs:

Global Talent Stream Program

The Global Talent Stream program is a fast-track work permit program that allows Canadian employers to hire foreign workers with specialized talent to fill critical skill shortages. Data Scientists fall under the “Skills in Artificial Intelligence” category, which is a designated field for the Global Talent Stream program.

Express Entry

Express Entry is an online system that manages applications for permanent residence for skilled workers. Data scientists are classified as skill type “0” under the National Occupational Classification (NOC) system, which means they are eligible for express entry.

Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP)

Canada has several Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) that allow each province to nominate foreign workers based on its specific labor market needs. Data scientists are in demand in several provinces, including British Columbia, Ontario, Quebec, and Nova Scotia.

Key Takeaways

• Canada is rapidly becoming a hub for data science, with several companies investing heavily in AI and data science research and development.
• The job market for data scientists is competitive, with several companies looking for experienced and skilled professionals.
• The average salary for a data scientist in Canada is between $77,000 and $125,000 per year.
• Visa sponsorship for data scientists is challenging, but several options are available, including the Global Talent Stream program, Express Entry, and Provincial Nominee Programs.

If you’re interested in pursuing a career in data science in Canada, it’s essential to research and understand the available options for visa sponsorship.

FAQs

Can I apply for permanent residency as a data scientist in Canada?

Yes, you can apply for permanent residency in Canada if you meet the eligibility requirements for the Federal Skilled Worker Program or Provincial Nominee Programs.

What are the requirements to qualify for the Global Talent Stream program?

To qualify for the Global Talent Stream program, you must have a job offer for a position that falls under the designated fields or subfields, including Skills in Artificial Intelligence.

How long does it take to obtain a work permit in Canada?

The processing time for a work permit can vary depending on your country of origin and the specific program you apply for. Global Talent Stream and Express Entry can have faster processing times compared to other programs.