JoshCanada isn’t just looking for doctors, nurses, and software engineers. In 2025, some of the biggest labor shortages are actually in the skilled trades sector. Electricians, welders, plumbers, mechanics, and carpenters are in such high demand that provinces are creating special immigration streams just for them.
For foreign workers, this is a massive opportunity. Unlike many white-collar roles, most skilled trades jobs don’t require a university degree. With the right training, certification, and experience, you can qualify for permanent residency. Salaries are strong too: CAD $55,000 to $85,000 per year, depending on your trade and location.
This guide explains which skilled trades are in demand, what salaries to expect, the immigration pathways available, and how to apply step by step.
How Much Do Skilled Trades Workers Earn in Canada?
Average Skilled Trades Salaries in 2025
| Trade | Average Annual Salary (CAD) | Hourly Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electrician | $60,000 – $85,000 | $28 – $40 | Higher demand in Alberta & Ontario |
| Welder | $55,000 – $80,000 | $26 – $38 | Industrial & oil/gas sectors pay more |
| Plumber | $58,000 – $82,000 | $27 – $39 | Needed in construction & residential housing |
| Heavy-Duty Mechanic | $60,000 – $85,000 | $29 – $41 | Mining & trucking sectors pay higher |
| Carpenter | $55,000 – $75,000 | $26 – $36 | Residential & commercial projects |
| HVAC Technician | $58,000 – $80,000 | $28 – $38 | Growing demand with climate extremes |
| Industrial Millwright | $65,000 – $90,000 | $31 – $44 | Manufacturing & factories |
Regional Salary Comparisons
| Province | Average Salary Range (CAD) | Cost of Living (1-bed apt/month) |
|---|---|---|
| Alberta | $60,000 – $85,000 | $1,400 – $1,900 |
| Ontario | $58,000 – $82,000 | $1,800 – $2,500 |
| British Columbia | $57,000 – $80,000 | $1,900 – $2,700 |
| Saskatchewan | $55,000 – $78,000 | $1,000 – $1,300 |
| Manitoba | $55,000 – $77,000 | $1,100 – $1,400 |
| Atlantic Provinces | $50,000 – $72,000 | $900 – $1,200 |
Alberta often pays the highest wages, especially in oil, gas, and construction. Saskatchewan and Manitoba offer lower costs of living, making them attractive for newcomers.
Skilled Trades Jobs in Demand
Canada’s construction boom, housing demand, and resource industries are driving shortages in trades. The most in-demand roles in 2025 include:
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Electricians (industrial, commercial, residential)
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Welders & Fabricators
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Plumbers & Pipefitters
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Heavy Equipment Mechanics
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Industrial Millwrights
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Carpenters & Construction Laborers
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HVAC Technicians
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Truck & Diesel Mechanics
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Sheet Metal Workers
These jobs are classified under NOC TEER 2 and 3 categories, which are eligible for both federal and provincial immigration programs.
Immigration Pathways for Skilled Trades
1. Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP – Express Entry)
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Specifically designed for tradespeople.
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Requirements:
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At least 2 years of full-time work experience in a skilled trade within the last 5 years.
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Meet job requirements for the trade (excluding Canadian licensing at time of application).
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Valid job offer OR certificate of qualification from a Canadian province/territory.
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Language: CLB 5 (speaking/listening) and CLB 4 (reading/writing).
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Processing time: 6 months after Invitation to Apply (ITA).
2. Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
Many provinces have special streams for trades:
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Ontario Employer Job Offer: In-Demand Skills Stream – for welders, mechanics, and construction workers.
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Alberta Opportunity Stream – includes electricians, welders, plumbers.
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Saskatchewan Skilled Worker Category – tradespeople in construction and resource industries.
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Manitoba Skilled Worker Stream – invites mechanics, welders, and carpenters.
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Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) – trades workers in Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, PEI, and Newfoundland.
3. Temporary Work Permits (Employer-Sponsored)
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Many employers hire trades workers on LMIA-supported work permits.
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Once in Canada, you can transition to PR through PNPs or Express Entry.
4. Trade Certification in Canada
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Some trades (electrician, plumber, welder) require Red Seal certification or provincial licensing.
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If you don’t yet have Canadian certification, you may work under supervision while completing exams.
Step-by-Step Application Guide for Skilled Trades
Step 1: Identify Your Trade & NOC Code
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Check your trade under the National Occupational Classification (NOC).
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Example: Electricians (NOC 72200), Welders (NOC 72106), Plumbers (NOC 72300).
Step 2: Gather Work Experience Proof
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Letters from employers showing job duties, hours worked, and experience.
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Apprenticeship certificates if available.
Step 3: Language Test
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IELTS General or CELPIP.
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Minimum CLB 5 speaking/listening and CLB 4 reading/writing for FSTP.
Step 4: Credential Recognition / Certification
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Apply for trade assessment in your target province.
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For Red Seal trades, you may need to pass exams in Canada.
Step 5: Apply for Immigration Program
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Create Express Entry profile for FSTP.
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Or apply to a PNP directly.
Step 6: Secure a Job Offer (Optional but Strong Advantage)
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Job offers from Canadian employers can boost your CRS score or meet FSTP requirements.
Step 7: Submit Documents
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Passport, proof of work experience, language test, trade certificates, police certificate, medical exam, proof of funds.
Step 8: Receive Invitation to Apply (ITA)
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Once invited, submit full application within 60 days.
Step 9: Move to Canada
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Land, start work, and complete provincial certification if required.
Benefits of Skilled Trades Immigration
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Strong salaries: $55,000–$85,000 per year.
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PR-friendly programs: FSTP and multiple PNPs designed for trades.
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Lower education barrier: You don’t need a university degree.
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High demand: Consistent labor shortages across provinces.
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Red Seal program: Certification allows mobility between provinces.
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Family benefits: Spouse open work permits and children’s free schooling.
Challenges for Skilled Trades Immigrants
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Certification required: Some trades need licensing before you can work independently.
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Harsh weather: Outdoor construction trades face extreme cold in winter.
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Physically demanding work: Long hours, heavy lifting, and safety risks.
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Regional demand: Many jobs are in rural areas, not just big cities.
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Competition: Employers may prioritize candidates with Canadian experience.
Conclusion
In 2025, Canada’s skilled trades immigration pathways are more open than ever. With salaries of $55,000 to $85,000 per year, jobs across construction, welding, plumbing, and mechanics, and immigration programs built specifically for trades, this is one of the most accessible ways to move to Canada.
If you’re a qualified welder, electrician, plumber, or mechanic, now is the time to apply. Whether through the Federal Skilled Trades Program or a Provincial Nominee Program, your skills are in demand, and Canada is ready to welcome you.
Josh
