A Guide to Immigrating to Canada as a Skilled Trades Worker

Canada is soon expected to hold new category-wise Express Entry draws. Here, IRCC will invite the highest-ranking candidates who have work experience in any of the following areas:

1. Healthcare

2. Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) professions

3. Trades, such as carpenters, plumbers, and contractors

4. Transport

5. Agriculture and agri-food

We have already covered various Canadian immigration options for STEM and Healthcare occupations in our first two editions of the occupation-specific blog series. Continue further to learn about available options for skilled trades workers looking to immigrate to Canada.

What is Skilled Trade in Canada?

A skilled trade in Canada is a trade that requires specialized knowledge, skills, and training to perform. There are over 300 designated skilled trades in Canada, and they are divided into two categories:

1. Red Seal trades: These are the highest level of skilled trades in Canada. Red Seal trades people have met the highest standards of training and skills, and their qualifications are recognized across Canada.

2. Non-Red Seal trades: These are skilled trades that do not yet have a Red Seal designation. However, they are still in high demand, and there are many opportunities for skilled trade professionals to find good-paying jobs in these trades.

Who are Skilled Trade Workers in Canada?

Some of the most common skilled trades in Canada include:

1. The services sector is a major industry in the Canadian economy and includes cooks, bakers, hair stylists, landscape horticulturists, and more.

2. Healthcare: Medical laboratory technologists, Dental hygienists, and other healthcare workers are always in demand.

3. Education: Instructors, teachers, and other social workers are also in high demand.

4. Construction: Carpenters, electricians, plumbers, welders, and heavy-duty equipment operators are all in high demand in the construction industry.

5. Manufacturing: Machinists, tool and die makers, and industrial electricians are all in demand in the manufacturing industry.

6. Transportation: Truck drivers, mechanics, and heavy-duty equipment operators are all in demand in the transportation industry.

7. Information and Digital Technology skills that are central to many trades including instrumentation and control technicians, machinists, and crane operators.

Is your occupation not listed? Get in touch with our expert counselors to learn more.

Average Salary of Skilled Trade Professionals in Canada

The average salary of skilled trade occupations in Canada varies depending on the trade, the level of experience, and the location.

According to a recent survey by the Canadian Apprenticeship Forum, the average salary for skilled trade occupations in Canada is $65,000 per year. However, the salary range is quite wide, with some occupations earning as little as $35,000 per year and others earning as much as $100,000 per year.

Where can you Settle in Canada?

If you are a provincial nominee, you must settle only in the province or territory that nominated you. Further, you cannot settle in Quebec unless you apply separately for it.

Otherwise, you can plan to live in any other province which has a greater potential for skilled trade work per your expertise. You can refer to the below in-demand skilled trade occupations in Canada.

Region-Wise In-Demand Trade Skills in Canada

Over 256,000 new apprentices are needed over the next 5 years till 2026 to meet demand in Canada. Here are some of the most in-demand skilled trades in Canada by region:

If you are looking for a rewarding and challenging career, becoming a skilled trade professional in Canada is a great option.

Are you planning to migrate to Canada? CanAprpove is right here to help you.

Book your free consultation with our expert immigration counselors today!