Canada’s government sector remains one of the most stable and rewarding career paths, offering not only job security but also competitive salaries, strong benefits, and career advancement opportunities. For skilled professionals from around the world, government jobs in Canada are especially attractive because they combine financial stability with a high standard of living.
In 2025, the demand for talented workers in public service continues to grow, partly due to retirements and Canada’s need for specialized skills. Many of these positions are open to qualified foreigners through immigration programs, making them a viable route for building a long-term career in the country.
This guide explores the Top 10 Government Jobs in Canada With High Salaries for Foreigners, ranked by average salary, responsibilities, and career growth potential. Whether you are an experienced professional, a recent graduate, or planning a career switch, this list will help you identify the best-paying roles and how to qualify for them.
1. Judges and Judicial Officers
Average Salary: CAD 300,000 – CAD 450,000 per year
Role Overview:
Judges and judicial officers preside over legal cases in Canada’s courts, making decisions based on Canadian law. They handle civil, criminal, and constitutional matters, ensuring justice is delivered fairly and in accordance with the law.
Key Responsibilities:
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Interpreting and applying Canadian laws
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Presiding over trials and hearings
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Delivering verdicts and sentencing decisions
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Overseeing legal proceedings to ensure fairness
How to Qualify:
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Law degree from a recognized institution
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Extensive legal practice (usually 10+ years)
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Appointment by provincial or federal government
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Strong knowledge of Canadian law and court procedures
Why It Pays Well:
Judges carry significant responsibility for maintaining justice and public trust. The role requires high expertise, impartiality, and years of experience.
2. Senior Government Executives (Deputy Ministers and Directors)
Average Salary: CAD 200,000 – CAD 350,000 per year
Role Overview:
Deputy ministers and senior directors manage entire government departments, overseeing policy, budgeting, and program delivery. They are the highest-ranking public servants in Canada.
Key Responsibilities:
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Advising ministers on policy decisions
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Managing large teams and multi-million-dollar budgets
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Coordinating interdepartmental initiatives
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Overseeing public service reforms and projects
How to Qualify:
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University degree (often in public administration, economics, or law)
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10–20 years of public service or management experience
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Strong leadership and strategic planning skills
Why It Pays Well:
These roles require managing large-scale operations and directly influencing national policies.
3. Medical Specialists in Public Hospitals
Average Salary: CAD 200,000 – CAD 400,000 per year
Role Overview:
Medical specialists such as surgeons, anesthesiologists, and psychiatrists in public hospitals are highly paid due to their expertise and the critical nature of their work.
Key Responsibilities:
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Diagnosing and treating complex medical conditions
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Performing surgeries and specialized procedures
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Supervising junior doctors and medical teams
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Conducting research and improving medical practices
How to Qualify:
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Medical degree and residency training
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Certification from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada
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Provincial or territorial licensing
Why It Pays Well:
These roles require years of training, precision, and high responsibility for patient outcomes.
4. Federal Lawyers and Crown Prosecutors
Average Salary: CAD 150,000 – CAD 250,000 per year
Role Overview:
Crown prosecutors and federal lawyers represent the government in criminal and civil cases, ensuring justice and upholding Canadian laws.
Key Responsibilities:
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Preparing and presenting cases in court
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Advising government departments on legal issues
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Reviewing legislation and contracts
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Negotiating settlements on behalf of the government
How to Qualify:
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Law degree and bar admission in a Canadian province
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Strong litigation or legal advisory experience
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Understanding of Canadian legal frameworks
Why It Pays Well:
These roles involve protecting public interests and require deep legal knowledge and advocacy skills.
5. Canadian Armed Forces Senior Officers
Average Salary: CAD 120,000 – CAD 200,000 per year (plus benefits)
Role Overview:
Senior officers in the Canadian Armed Forces lead military operations, oversee strategic planning, and manage defense personnel.
Key Responsibilities:
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Leading military units and operations
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Planning defense strategies
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Training and mentoring junior officers
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Ensuring operational readiness
How to Qualify:
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Military training and officer commissioning
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Years of service with proven leadership record
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Security clearance
Why It Pays Well:
High leadership responsibility, operational risk, and strategic decision-making contribute to the high pay.
6. Senior Economists and Policy Analysts
Average Salary: CAD 110,000 – CAD 180,000 per year
Role Overview:
Economists and policy analysts in government help shape Canada’s economic, social, and environmental policies.
Key Responsibilities:
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Conducting research and economic modeling
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Advising on fiscal policy and budget planning
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Evaluating policy impacts
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Preparing reports for ministers and senior officials
How to Qualify:
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Degree in economics, finance, or public policy
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Strong data analysis and research skills
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Experience in government or think tanks
Why It Pays Well:
Their work influences national decisions and impacts millions of Canadians.
7. Diplomats and Foreign Service Officers
Average Salary: CAD 100,000 – CAD 160,000 per year (plus allowances)
Role Overview:
Diplomats represent Canada abroad, protecting national interests and building international relations.
Key Responsibilities:
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Negotiating trade and diplomatic agreements
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Promoting Canadian culture and values abroad
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Supporting Canadian citizens overseas
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Reporting on political and economic developments
How to Qualify:
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University degree (international relations, law, or political science preferred)
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Strong communication and negotiation skills
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Successful completion of the Global Affairs Canada selection process
Why It Pays Well:
Includes generous allowances for overseas postings and the responsibility of representing the country internationally.
8. Air Traffic Controllers
Average Salary: CAD 100,000 – CAD 160,000 per year
Role Overview:
Air traffic controllers ensure the safe and efficient movement of aircraft in Canadian airspace.
Key Responsibilities:
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Monitoring and directing aircraft movements
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Communicating with pilots and ground staff
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Ensuring compliance with aviation safety regulations
How to Qualify:
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Training through NAV CANADA
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Certification and medical clearance
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Strong decision-making skills
Why It Pays Well:
Requires high concentration and decision-making under pressure, with responsibility for many lives daily.
9. Senior Engineers in Government Projects
Average Salary: CAD 90,000 – CAD 150,000 per year
Role Overview:
Engineers in government oversee infrastructure projects like bridges, roads, and public facilities.
Key Responsibilities:
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Designing and reviewing engineering projects
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Managing budgets and contractors
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Ensuring safety and compliance standards
How to Qualify:
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Engineering degree and professional license (P.Eng.)
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Experience in public works or infrastructure projects
Why It Pays Well:
Engineering roles demand technical expertise and direct responsibility for critical national infrastructure.
10. Senior IT Specialists and Cybersecurity Experts
Average Salary: CAD 90,000 – CAD 140,000 per year
Role Overview:
These professionals secure government data and maintain critical digital infrastructure.
Key Responsibilities:
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Protecting against cyber threats
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Managing large-scale IT systems
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Ensuring data privacy compliance
How to Qualify:
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Degree in computer science or IT
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Cybersecurity certifications (CISSP, CISM)
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Experience in IT management or cyber defense
Why It Pays Well:
The increasing importance of data security in public administration drives demand and salary growth.
Summary Table: Top 10 Government Jobs in Canada for Foreigners (2025)
| Rank | Job Title | Average Salary (CAD) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Judges and Judicial Officers | 300,000 – 450,000 |
| 2 | Senior Government Executives | 200,000 – 350,000 |
| 3 | Medical Specialists | 200,000 – 400,000 |
| 4 | Crown Prosecutors | 150,000 – 250,000 |
| 5 | Senior Armed Forces Officers | 120,000 – 200,000 |
| 6 | Senior Economists | 110,000 – 180,000 |
| 7 | Diplomats | 100,000 – 160,000 |
| 8 | Air Traffic Controllers | 100,000 – 160,000 |
| 9 | Senior Engineers | 90,000 – 150,000 |
| 10 | Senior IT Specialists | 90,000 – 140,000 |
How Foreigners Can Qualify for High-Paying Government Jobs in Canada
Foreigners seeking Canadian government jobs must:
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Meet educational and professional requirements
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Have strong English or French language skills
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Secure work authorization or permanent residency
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Pass security clearances for sensitive roles
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Gain Canadian-recognized certifications where required
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can foreigners apply for Canadian government jobs?
Yes, if you meet the requirements and immigration status. Many specialized roles are open to permanent residents.
2. Which Canadian government job pays the most?
Judges and senior executives are among the top earners.
3. Do I need Canadian citizenship for all government jobs?
Some require citizenship, especially in security or defense, but others accept permanent residents.
4. How competitive are government jobs in Canada?
They are highly competitive, especially for high-paying roles.
5. Are government jobs in Canada secure?
Yes. They offer strong job stability, benefits, and pensions.
Final Thoughts
Landing a high-paying government job in Canada is possible for qualified foreigners, but preparation is key. By focusing on the right skills, gaining Canadian credentials, and applying strategically, you can build a secure and rewarding career in the Canadian public sector.