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If you want to broaden your horizons as a beauty worker, Canada is a prominent choice for many foreign beauty workers. With many career paths, including esthetics, hairstyling, makeup artistry, and more, you can pursue your passion for beauty and personal care while making a meaningful impact on your clients' lives in Canada.
Whether working in a salon, spa, retail setting, or freelancing, beauty professionals boost personal confidence and promote well-being in Canada. With a commitment to continuous learning and staying updated on industry trends, foreign beauty workers can thrive in Canada's dynamic beauty industry landscape.
Let’s uncover the rewarding possibilities of employment in Canada's bustling beauty sector, ranging from aesthetics and hairstyling to makeup artistry and beyond.
Canada’s Beauty Industry
Canada’s beauty industry is experiencing steady growth, fueled by increasing consumer demand for beauty products and services. According to Circana, sales revenue for Canada’s beauty market grew by 18% through September 2023 compared to the nine months of the previous year.
Canada's Beauty & Personal Care market is projected to generate a revenue of over 11 billion CAD in 2024, according to Statista. With ethical and environmental concerns influencing consumer preferences, organic and ethically sourced products represent about 40% of Canada’s skincare market, according to trade.gov.
Ontario and Quebec are home to Canada's largest cosmetics and skin care producers. They are the most active consumer marketplaces for skin care products in Canada. Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver represent Canada's three largest urban markets for cosmetics and skin care products.
If you’re a foreign beauty professional looking to work in Canada’s beauty industry, the most lucrative market you can choose to enter is makeup, which contributed approximately 40% of revenue gains of Canada’s beauty industry in the first half of 2023, according to Beauty Packaging.
Top Beauty Industry Occupations in Canada
Here are some of Canada's top Beauty Industry Occupations.
Hair Stylist
NOC Code: 63210
Hair stylists are responsible for cutting, coloring, styling, and maintaining clients' hair. They consult with clients to understand their desired looks and recommend services and products accordingly. Hair stylists typically work in salons, but some may also work in fashion shows, film and television productions, or on cruise ships.
Annual Average Salary in Canada: 45,484.13 CAD.
Most in-Demand Occupations: Alberta, British Columbia, New Brunswick, Quebec.
Nail Technician
NOC Code: 63211
Nail technicians provide various services to beautify and maintain clients' nails. These services may include manicures, pedicures, gel nails, acrylic nails, and nail art. Nail technicians typically work in salons, but some may also work in spas or department stores.
Annual Average Salary in Canada: 47,642.98 CAD.
Most in-Demand Occupations: New Brunswick, Nova Scotia.
Aesthetician
NOC Code: 63211
Aestheticians are skin care specialists who provide a variety of treatments to cleanse, exfoliate, and improve the appearance of the skin. These treatments may include facials, chemical peels, microdermabrasion, waxing, and laser hair removal. Aestheticians typically work in salons, spas, or medical offices.
Annual Average Salary in Canada: 47,642.28 CAD.
Most in-Demand Occupations: New Brunswick, Nova Scotia.
Makeup Artist
NOC Code: 52119
Makeup artists apply makeup to clients for various purposes, such as everyday wear, special occasions, photo shoots, film and television productions, and fashion shows. Makeup artists may also specialize in different areas, such as bridal makeup, special effects makeup, or airbrush makeup.
Annual Average Salary in Canada: 82,020.07 CAD.
Most in-Demand Occupations: Alberta, British Columbia.
Cosmetologist
NOC Code: 63211
Cosmetologists are licensed professionals who can provide a wide range of beauty services, including hair styling, makeup application, skincare treatments, and nail care. They typically work in salons, but some may also work in spas, department stores, or as freelance artists.
Annual Average Salary in Canada: 47,641.41 CAD.
Most in-Demand Occupations: New Brunswick, Nova Scotia.
Beauty Consultant
NOC Code: 64201
Beauty consultants provide advice and recommendations to customers on cosmetics, skincare, and fragrance products. They may work in department stores, specialty beauty stores, or for cosmetic brands.
Annual Average Salary in Canada: 47,628.94 CAD.
Most in-Demand Occupations: New Brunswick, Nova Scotia.
Salon Manager
NOC Code: 60040
Salon managers oversee the day-to-day operations of a salon or spa. They are responsible for hiring and training staff, scheduling appointments, managing inventory, and ensuring customer satisfaction.
Annual Average Salary in Canada: 92,610.13 CAD.
Most in-Demand Occupations: Quebec.
Beauty Educator
NOC Code: 64201
Beauty educators teach students the skills and knowledge necessary to work in the beauty industry. They may work in colleges, universities, or private beauty schools.
Annual Average Salary in Canada: 45,498.88 CAD.
Most in-Demand Occupations: Alberta, British Columbia, New Brunswick, Quebec.
What Is The Average Annual Salary For Beauty Workers in Canada?
The average annual salary for beauty workers in Canada can vary depending on several factors, including the:
Specific occupation
Different beauty professions have varying salary ranges. For example, Makeup Artists typically earn more than Nail Technicians, as reflected in the average annual salary figures above.
Location
Salaries may be higher in larger cities compared to smaller towns or rural areas. For example, in Toronto, Ontario, the average monthly net salary after tax is 4,708.36 CAD, while in Barrie, Ontario, the average monthly net salary after tax is 3,725.00 CAD according to Numbeo.
Work experience
As with many professions, salaries tend to increase with experience and qualifications.
Work Setting
Salaries can differ depending on whether you work in a high-end boutique, department store chain, or spa salon.
However, according to Talent.com, the average annual salary in Canada’s beauty industry is 62,891.02 CAD or 32.26 CAD.
What Qualifications or Certifications Are Required to Work in The Beauty Industry in Canada?
The qualifications and certifications required to work in the Canadian beauty industry vary depending on the specific occupation and the province or territory you wish to work in. Here's a general overview of the beauty industry's eligibility qualification requirements.
General Qualifications
Completion of Secondary/high school
Most beauty programs require a high school diploma or equivalent as a minimum entry-level job requirement.
Training
Training for beauty professions is typically obtained through college programs, private career colleges, or apprenticeships. The program duration and content will vary depending on the chosen beauty occupation.
Licensing and Certification
Mandatory Licensing
Most provinces and territories in Canada require licensing for specific beauty professions like hairstylists, estheticians, and cosmetologists. To obtain a beauty license in Canada, you must graduate from a government-approved training program offered by DLIs, such as the Canadian Beauty College, Glow College, AESP Beauty School, and The Esthetic Institute, that meets the province's or territory's specific requirements.
You must also pass a provincial or territorial Beauty Council Certificate of Qualification exam and Meet continuing education requirements to maintain your license (applicable in some provinces/territories).
Voluntary
Some professions, like makeup artists and nail technicians, may not require mandatory licensing but might benefit from having relevant certifications to enhance their credibility and marketability. Ensure you register a license with the Beauty Council of Canada and one of the provincial or territorial regulatory bodies like the Cosmetology Association of Nova Scotia.
Benefits of Working in Canada as a Beauty Worker
Here are some benefits of working in Canada as a beauty worker.
Growing Beauty Industry in Canada
The Canadian beauty industry is experiencing steady growth, fueled by consumer demand for beauty products and services. This translates to more job opportunities and higher salaries for skilled professionals.
With its population in mind, Canada is estimated to generate a per-person revenue of 306.56 CAD in 2024, according to Statista. Furthermore, projected online sales will account for 26.5% of the total revenue in the Beauty & Personal Care market by the end of 2024 based on information from Statista.
Canada's beauty and personal care market is experiencing a growing demand for natural and organic products. According to trade.gov, as recently as 2021, Canada’s beauty industry generated over 1,6 billion CAD, a figure expected to grow to 2,4 billion CAD by 2024.
Strong Beauty Industry Regulations in Canada
Canada has strict licensing and regulatory frameworks for various beauty professions. These regulations ensure that beauty workers meet high standards of training and practice, which fosters industry credibility, professionalism, and potentially greater client trust.
Ensure that any cosmetics and cosmetics care you sell and administer in Canada meets the standards and requirements of the Food and Drugs Act and Cosmetic Regulations. Other important regulatory legislation includes the Consumer Packaging and Labelling Act (CPLA), the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 (CEPA) and the Cannabis Act.
Opportunities Among Canada’s Diverse Clientele
Canada's multicultural population creates a diverse client base with varied needs and desires. This allows beauty workers to hone their skills and expand their knowledge to cater to different ethnicities and cultural preferences, potentially enhancing their career prospects and marketability. It also ensures you find a beauty care demographic market that suits your skills.
Learn more about multiculturalism in Canada.
Access to Canada’s Cutting-Edge Education and Training
Education and Training in Canada offers diverse educational and training programs for aspiring beauty professionals. These programs range from college diplomas to university degrees and can equip individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in the industry.
Find out more about education in Canada.
Canada’s Entrepreneurship Opportunities
The beauty industry provides fertile ground for entrepreneurial ventures. Skilled and experienced beauty workers can consider opening their salons or spas or pursue freelance work to build their client base and work independently.
Learn more about foreign entrepreneurship opportunities via five immigrants who made it in Canada.
Supportive Community and Networking Opportunities in Canada
The Canadian beauty industry fosters a sense of community and offers networking opportunities. This can be valuable for professional development, collaboration, and staying updated on industry trends and advancements.
Learn how to find your community in Canada.
How Can I Work in Canada’s Beauty Industry
Temporary Foreign Work Permit (TFWP)
The Temporary Foreign Work Permit (TFWP) allows you to work for a specific beauty industry employer in Canada for a specific period. The employer must demonstrate they have tried and failed to recruit a Canadian citizen or permanent resident for the position through the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) process.
Learn more about Canada’s TFWP.
International Mobility Program (IMP)
The International Mobility Program (IMP) program offers various streams for foreigners to work temporarily in Canada without needing their Canadian employer to get an LMIA, including some related to the beauty industry. IMP LMIA-exempt work permit streams you can use to work in Canada as a beauty worker include:
Intra-Company Transfer Program
The Intra-Company Transfer Program is targeted to highly skilled and experienced workers in specific occupations, which may include certain beauty professions in high demand, such as film and television Makeup Artists, Hairstylists, and Salon Managers.
Postgraduate Work Permit
If you graduated from a designated learning institution (DLI) beauty post-secondary school, you can capitalize on the opportunity to immediately earn work experience as a beautician using the Postgraduate Work Permit (PGWP).
IEC Working Holiday Program
International Experience Canada’s (IEC) Working Holiday Visa (WHV) allows young adults between 18 and 30 years old from participating countries to work and travel in Canada for up to 24 months. Suppose you’re a foreign beautician who fulfills both eligibility requirements. In that case, you can apply for a Working Holiday Visa and receive an open work permit, enabling you to work and live as a beauty worker anywhere in Canada.
Find out how to prepare for your Working Holiday Visa in Canada.
FAQs
What Are The Key Qualities And Skills Needed to Succeed in The Beauty Industry?
To succeed in the beauty industry, individuals need creativity, professionalism, and excellent communication and customer service skills. Furthermore, attention to detail, adaptability, and a passion for continuous learning are essential qualities for thriving in this dynamic field.
How Can I Stay Updated on The Latest Trends And Developments in The Beauty Industry in Canada?
To stay updated on the latest trends and developments in the beauty industry in Canada, professionals can follow industry publications, attend workshops and seminars, participate in online forums, and network with fellow beauty enthusiasts and professionals. Additionally, watching social media platforms and following influential beauty influencers can provide valuable insights into emerging trends and techniques.
