North America is facing a healthcare workforce shortage, and internationally trained professionals play a critical role in filling the gap. From large urban hospitals to rural clinics, employers across the United States and Canada are actively hiring for a wide range of healthcare positions.
Whether a nurse, respiratory therapist, or medical lab technician, opportunities are growing across both countries. However, certain regions are more actively recruiting, offering greater opportunities and incentives. The following overview highlights key hotspots for healthcare employment.
The U.S.: High Demand Across Regions and Specialties
As of June 2025, more than 5,600 nursing roles were open across the U.S., according to Aya Healthcare. Healthcare employers are especially focused on specialties such as:
- ICU and emergency care
- Home health and hospice
- Labor and delivery
- Long-term care
States like Illinois and Texas continue to lead in job volume due to their large populations and expansive hospital networks. Meanwhile, some states are increasing recruitment efforts through various incentives. These welcoming states include (but are not limited to): Florida, Missouri, Michigan, North Dakota, Pennsylvania, Utah, and Virginia.
The demand extends beyond nursing. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, nearly 2 million healthcare openings are projected each year through 2033. Allied health roles, such as physical therapy assistants, radiologic technologists, and respiratory therapists, are among the fastest-growing positions nationwide.
Michigan Language Assessment has been working closely with Health Carousel International to help Mexican nurses who are interested in moving to the U.S. to fill in these high-demand positions. Learn more about the program here.
Canada: Opportunities in Both Urban and Rural Areas
Canada is experiencing a similar trend. Between 2023 and 2024, employment in health occupations increased by 67,000, with nursing making up the largest share, according to Statistics Canada.
However, the demand spans beyond nursing. Canadian employers are also hiring:
- Diagnostic imaging staff
- Lab technicians
- Home care aides
The provinces of Ontario and British Columbia account for many of the current job openings, particularly in cities like Toronto and Vancouver where population growth is driving expansion in healthcare services. At the same time, rural and remote provinces, such as Saskatchewan, Alberta, and Manitoba are offering unique recruitment programs and supports. The supports include assistance with licensing and settlement services.
Institutions and recruitment agencies are encouraged to use this data to support their candidates and identify target regions for job placement.