Canada’s job market continues to evolve in 2025 with fewer vacancies but rising overall labour demand. While the headlines may point to a decline in open positions, there’s more beneath the surface. As immigration remains a key driver of Canada’s economic and demographic growth, these shifts offer critical insights for newcomers and skilled workers exploring opportunities in Canada.

Here’s a deep dive into the latest developments in Canada’s job vacancy trends and what they mean for potential immigrants, employers, and policymakers.

Job Vacancies Decline in Early 2025

First quarter shows dip, but not a cause for alarm. Job vacancies dropped to 524,300 in Q1 of 2025—down by 20,600 from the previous quarter and 116,100 year-over-year. But this decline brings job openings close to pre-pandemic norms. Between 2017 and 2019, for instance, average vacancies hovered around 506,300.

• Full-time jobs: Down by 14,000
• Part-time jobs: Down by 6,600
• Permanent roles: Down by 18,000
• Temporary roles: Little to no change

Despite fewer job listings, total labour demand, a combination of filled and vacant positions, increased, thanks to a rise in payroll employment by over 62,000.

Rising Unemployment-to-Job Vacancy Ratio

The unemployment-to-job vacancy ratio rose to 2.9, a jump from 2.0 in early 2024. This indicates that there are nearly 3 job seekers per vacancy. The rise comes from both more unemployed persons (+15.6%) and fewer job postings (-18.1%).

Which Occupations Saw the Biggest Impact?

Here’s how six major occupational groups were affected in Q1 2025:

Overall, all ten major occupation groups saw year-over-year declines in available roles.

Sector Spotlights

Health Sector – Despite falling by 5,400 vacancies in Q1 2025, health jobs remain above pre-pandemic levels.

Top roles affected:

• Registered nurses & psychiatric nurses: -7,700
• Nurse aides & patient service associates: -4,900
• Licensed practical nurses: -2,700

Sales and Service – Now at its lowest point since late 2016, this category still accounts for the highest proportion of job vacancies (28.3%).
Notable declines:

• Retail salespersons & merchandisers: -3,900
• Food counter attendants: -3,800
• Customer service reps: -3,600

Trades and Transport – Jobs in this group fell by 3,300 this quarter and over 27,000 compared to last year.

Most affected roles:

• Construction labourers: -4,400
• Truck drivers: -3,700

Wages: Slower Growth but Still Rising

The average offered hourly wage increased to $28.90 (+6.1% YoY). This growth, however, is slower than the 7.4% growth seen in late 2024.

Jobs requiring less education saw the biggest drop in postings, while higher education vacancies dropped moderately.

Regional Job Market Variations

Five provinces and one territory saw declines:

• Quebec: -9,500
• British Columbia: -6,600
• Alberta: -4,300
• Manitoba: -1,200
• New Brunswick: -700
• Northwest Territories: -300

Some regions like Northwest Ontario and Laval saw an increase in job vacancy rates, proving that regional demand still varies widely.

What Does This Mean for Immigration?

Despite the decline in job openings, Canada’s labour market is far from cooling off. The rise in overall demand and steady wage growth reflect a labour market in flux, but not in crisis. For those considering immigration, especially through economic or provincial nominee programs, skilled workers remain in demand across healthcare, trades, and technical sectors.

Final Takeaway: A Balancing Labour Market

The Canada job vacancy data from Q1 2025 reveals a market adjusting to post-pandemic norms. While vacancies have dipped, strong labour demand, wage growth, and regional variations show continued opportunity. For immigrants and job seekers with the right skills, Canada still offers a promising future. Stay tuned to ImmigCanada for real-time updates, expert insights, and guidance tailored to your Canadian immigration journey.