Canada ended 2025 with a labour market that showed stability, resilience, and important signals for job seekers. The Canada employment report December 2025 revealed that overall employment remained steady while wages continued to rise and healthcare hiring gained momentum. Although unemployment increased slightly, the broader picture points to a labour market that is adjusting rather than weakening.

For immigrants, international students, and newcomers planning their future in Canada, these trends matter. They shape job availability, sector demand, and long term settlement prospects. Canada continues to create space for skilled workers across healthcare, services, and community roles.

Canada Employment Report December 2025 Highlights Stability with Sector Shifts

According to the Canada employment report December 2025, employment increased by a modest 8,200 jobs, keeping the employment rate steady at 60.9%. This followed strong gains in the previous three months, which added more than 180,000 jobs. Full time employment rose while part time roles declined, showing a shift toward more stable work arrangements.

At the same time, the unemployment rate increased to 6.8% as more people entered the job market. This rise does not indicate job loss on a large scale. Instead, it reflects more Canadians actively seeking work, a sign of renewed confidence. Canada’s labour market continues to balance opportunity and competition.

Healthcare and Social Services Continue to Lead Job Growth

One of the most positive signals from the Canada employment report December 2025 is the strong growth in healthcare and social assistance. Employment in this sector rose by 21,000 in December alone and by 85,000 over the year. This growth reflects Canada’s ongoing investment in public health, elder care, and community services.

For internationally trained professionals, this is meaningful. Healthcare remains one of the most accessible and in demand sectors for newcomers. From nurses and personal support workers to social service professionals, Canada continues to open doors. Other services such as personal and repair services also saw growth, pointing to strong community level demand.

Professional Services and Hospitality See Temporary Declines

While healthcare gained ground, some sectors saw declines. Professional scientific and technical services experienced a drop in employment. Accommodation and food services also recorded fewer jobs. These changes reflect economic adjustment, seasonal patterns, and shifting business demand. For newcomers, this highlights the importance of choosing sectors with stable demand. Healthcare, social services, and community support roles continue to offer stronger security.

Wages Continue to Rise Across Canada

The Canada employment report December 2025 showed that average hourly wages increased by 3.4 percent compared to the previous year, reaching 37.06 dollars. This steady wage growth supports affordability and quality of life. For immigrants and new residents, rising wages improve settlement outcomes. They support housing, education, and family stability. Canada’s labour market is not only creating jobs but also improving earnings. This strengthens Canada’s appeal as a destination for skilled workers.

Provincial Trends Show Regional Opportunity

Employment increased in Quebec while Alberta and Saskatchewan saw declines. Ontario remained stable with slight growth over the year. These regional shifts matter for newcomers choosing where to settle.

Here is a simple overview.

Province	December Trend
Quebec	Employment increased
Alberta	Employment decreased
Saskatchewan	Employment decreased
Ontario	Little change
Other provinces	Stable

Quebec’s growth highlights opportunities in healthcare and services. Ontario’s steady position reflects its large and diverse economy. Alberta’s adjustment shows that resource dependent regions are stabilising after strong earlier growth.

Youth and Older Workers Show Different Patterns

The Canada employment report December 2025 also revealed differences by age group. Employment rose among people aged 55 and older while youth employment declined. Youth unemployment increased as fewer young people were working. For international students and recent graduates, this points to a more competitive entry level market. It also highlights the value of Canadian education, work experience, and targeted skills. Older workers returning to the workforce reflects confidence and demand in experienced roles.

Digital Platform Work and Newcomers

The report also showed that digital platform work remained steady, with recent immigrants much more likely to use online platforms for income. This reflects flexibility, access, and the need for quick entry into the labour market. For newcomers, this can provide short term income. However, Canada’s long term strength lies in permanent, stable employment pathways.

The Canada employment report December 2025 sends a clear message. Canada’s labour market is stable. For immigrants, this means Canada remains a strong choice for long term settlement. The country is managing change while protecting opportunity. Canada continues to need skilled workers. And newcomers continue to play a key role.

Canada Employment Report December 2025 Confirms Stability and Opportunity

The Canada employment report December 2025 confirms that Canada’s labour market remains steady, with growth in healthcare, rising wages, and regional opportunities across the country. While some sectors are adjusting, the overall picture is positive for skilled workers and newcomers. Canada continues to build its economy with people. For those planning to work and settle in Canada, the path remains open. Stay tuned with ImmigCanada to learn more!