Immigrate to Canada as an Engineer

July 21, 2023

Sinethemba Phongolo

Engineering in Canada has long been one of the most in-demand occupations in Canada due to the highly skilled nature of the occupation. The nation constantly needs expertise in different types of engineering in Canada to fill the in-demand engineering jobs labor market gap.

Along with a booming economy and many opportunities, it is easy to see why engineer immigration to Canada has increased. As a result, working as an engineer in Canada has become more accessible to foreigners through many Canada immigration for engineers' visa pathways. Explore the next phase of your engineering career by immigrating to Canada using any one of the following suitable and accessible immigration visa pathways!

Best Immigration Programs for Engineers

Prospective foreign immigrants who want to immigrate to Camada. Engineers can use the following immigration visa pathways to move to Canada.

Federal Skilled Workers Program (FSWP)

The Federal Skilled Workers Program (FSWP) is one of the most popular immigration programs for engineers in Canada. This program is designed for skilled workers with the necessary education, work experience, and language abilities to contribute to the Canadian economy. To qualify for the FSWP, engineers must meet specific criteria, including:

Have at least 1 year of work experience in a TEER 0,1,2 or 3 job
Have a language proficiency of at least level 7 Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB)
Graduated with a degree qualification from a post-secondary designated learning institution (DLI)
Can prove the ability to adapt to Canadian life
Possession of a job offer
Family connection in Canada

Canadian Experience Class

The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) is another excellent option for engineers looking to immigrate to Canada. This program is for individuals with at least 1 year of skilled work experience in Canada. This program provides a pathway to immigration for individuals who have already integrated into Canadian society and have proven their ability to contribute to the economy.

Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)

The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) allows 11 of Canada’s 13 provinces and territories to select immigrants based on their specific economic needs.

Many provinces in Canada have specific streams and pathways for engineers, making the PNP an attractive option for those looking to immigrate as an engineer. Each province has its own eligibility criteria, so it's essential to research and determine which province aligns with your career goals. The most suitable PNP programs for engineers are outlined in the table below:

Canada PNP streams for Engineers
Alberta Accelerated Tech Pathway
British Columbia Skilled Worker Category
British Columbia Tech Pilot
International Post Graduate
Skilled Worker in Manitoba Stream
Manitoba Skilled Worker Overseas Stream
New Brunswick Skilled Workers Stream
Nova Scotia Skilled Worker Stream
Northwest Territories Skilled Workers Program
Ontario In-Demand Skills Stream
Ontario Tech Pilot
Skilled Worker in Prince Edward Island Stream
Prince Edward Island Outside Canada Stream
Quebec Skilled Worker Program
Saskatchewan International Skilled Worker Category
Saskatchewan Occupation in-demand
Yukon Skilled Worker Program

Atlantic High-Skilled Program

The Atlantic High-Skilled Program is a pilot project designed to attract skilled workers to Canada's Atlantic provinces:

This program is an excellent option for engineers looking to immigrate to Canada, as it provides a direct pathway to permanent residency. Learn more about the eligibility requirements for the Atlantic High-Skilled Program.

Temporary Foreign Work Permit (TFWP)

While not a permanent immigration program, the Temporary Foreign Work Permit (TFWP) temporarily allows engineers to work in Canada. This can be a valuable stepping stone for engineers who wish to gain Canadian work experience and potentially apply for permanent residency in the future.

The TFWP requires a job offer from a Canadian employer and may have specific requirements depending on the occupation and the province.

Temporary Foreign Work Permit (TFWP) streams include:

High and Low Wage Worker Stream: Canadian employers who possess a Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) who plan to hire foreign workers below or above the median hourly wage
Agriculture Worker Stream: Employers who need to hire workers to fill specific job positions related to agricultural production during peak seasons can use this stream
Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program: If you’re from one of the countries Canada has bilateral agreements with s to hire agricultural workers then you can use this stream to work in Canada for eight months during peak farming periods.
Global Talent Stream: Allows Canadian employers who are eligible to hire highly skilled workers
Home Care Provider Stream: Allows eligible Canadian families to hire foreign caregivers
Foreign Academics: Allows eligible Canadian universities to hire foreign academics who can bring new knowledge, research and innovation to Canada

Find out more about how you can work in Canada.

What Are The Highest Paying Engineering Jobs in Canada?

Canada offers numerous high-paying engineering jobs across various industries. Here are some of the most lucrative engineering positions in the country:

Geotechnical Engineer (NOC 21331)

Geotechnical engineers are responsible for evaluating the behavior of soil and rock materials in engineering projects. They are crucial in ensuring the stability and safety of structures built on or in the ground. In Canada, geotechnical engineers are in high demand, particularly in provinces with significant construction and infrastructure projects.

To excel as a geotechnical engineer in Canada, you must have a strong educational background in geotechnical engineering or a related field and relevant work experience. Geotechnical engineers should also possess excellent problem-solving skills and a deep understanding of soil mechanics and geotechnical analysis techniques.

Canada Annual Average Salary:
- 128,459.66 CAD
Most in-demand Canadian provinces:
- Alberta

Software Engineer (NOC 21301)

In the digital age, has created a high demand for software engineers. They are responsible for developing and maintaining software systems and applications. With the rise of technology companies and the increasing reliance on software solutions, software engineers can enjoy lucrative career opportunities in Canada.

Canada Annual Average Salary:
- 126,827.28 CAD
Most in-demand Canadian provinces:
- Alberta, Manitoba, Nova Scotia, Ontario, Prince Edward Island

Biomedical Engineer (NOC 21399)

Biomedical engineers are at the forefront of innovation in healthcare. They combine their knowledge of engineering principles with medical sciences to design and develop medical devices, prosthetics, and healthcare technologies. Due to the growing demand for healthcare advancements, biomedical engineers are in high demand in Canada and can command impressive salaries.

Canada Annual Average Salary:
- 113,004.18 CAD
Most in-demand Canadian provinces:
- Alberta, Manitoba, Quebec, Saskatchewan

Electrical Engineer (NOC 21310)

Electrical engineers specialize in designing and developing electrical systems and equipment. They work in various sectors, including power generation, telecommunications, and manufacturing. Given the importance of electricity in modern society, electrical engineers are highly sought after in Canada and can earn substantial salaries.

Canada Annual Average Salary:
- 111,174.48 CAD
Most in-demand Canadian provinces:
- Quebec, Saskatchewan

Traffic Engineer (NOC 21300)

Traffic engineers analyze traffic patterns, design transportation systems, and improve traffic flow. They work closely with government agencies and urban planners to enhance transportation infrastructure. Due to the constant need for efficient transportation solutions, traffic engineers are in demand and can earn attractive salaries.

Canada Annual Average Salary:
- 110,518.07 CAD
Most in-demand Canadian provinces:
- Quebec

Structural Engineer (NOC 21300)

Structural engineers are responsible for designing and analyzing structures to ensure their safety, stability, and durability. They are crucial to the construction industry and are in high demand in Canada, particularly in provinces with significant infrastructure development.

To succeed as a structural engineer in Canada, you must have a strong educational background in civil or structural engineering and relevant work experience. Structural engineers should also possess excellent analytical and problem-solving skills and a deep understanding of structural design principles and building codes.

Canada Annual Average Salary:
- 110,493.34 CAD
Most in-demand Canadian provinces:
- Quebec

Civil Engineer (NOC 21300)

Civil engineers are involved in designing, constructing, and maintaining infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, and buildings. With Canada's constant need for infrastructure development, civil engineers have excellent job prospects and can earn competitive salaries.

Canada Annual Average Salary:
- 110,450.99 CAD
Most in-demand Canadian provinces:
- Quebec

Project Engineer (NOC 21300)

Project engineers oversee engineering projects from start to finish. They coordinate resources, manage budgets, and ensure projects are completed on time and within specifications. Project engineers can earn substantial salaries in Canada with their leadership skills and technical expertise. The average annual wage and job prospects for project engineers according to Canada’s Job Bank are outlined below:

Canada Annual Average Salary:
- 110,441.77 CAD
Most in-demand Canadian provinces:
- Alberta, Manitoba, Nova Scotia, Ontario, Prince Edward Island, Saskatchewan, Yukon Territory

Mechanical Engineer (NOC 22231)

Mechanical engineers are involved in designing, developing, and maintaining mechanical systems and equipment. They work in industries such as automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing. With their broad skill set and versatility, mechanical engineers can find well-paying jobs in Canada.

Canada Annual Average Salary:
- 105,428.40 CAD
Most in-demand Canadian provinces:
- Alberta, Manitoba, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, Quebec, Saskatchewan

Engineering Inspector (NOC 21300)

Engineering inspectors ensure engineering projects comply with regulations and quality standards. They conduct inspections, review designs, and ensure that construction projects meet safety and environmental requirements. Engineering inspectors can earn competitive salaries in Canada with their expertise in quality assurance.

Canada Annual Average Salary:
- 104,278.04 CAD
Most in-demand Canadian provinces:
- Alberta, Quebec

Architectural Engineer (NOC 21300)

Architectural engineers combine their knowledge of engineering principles with architectural design to create functional and sustainable buildings. They collaborate with architects and construction teams to ensure buildings are structurally sound and energy-efficient. Architectural engineers can find rewarding careers in Canada due to the importance of sustainable design in the construction industry.

Canada Annual Average Salary:
- 92,674.29 CAD
Most in-demand Canadian provinces:
- Ontario, Quebec, Saskatchewan

Please note that all annual average salary and job prospect statistical figures are obtained from Canada’s Job Bank.

Why Move to Canada as an Engineer?

Canada has become a popular destination for engineers seeking better career prospects and high quality of life. With its welcoming immigration policies and robust job market, the country offers numerous opportunities for engineers worldwide.

High Demand

One of the main reasons to consider immigrating to Canada as an engineer is the high demand for engineering professionals in the country. As Canada continues to invest in infrastructure development and technological advancements, the need for skilled engineers has grown significantly.

There is a constant demand for engineers in various fields from civil engineering to electrical engineering. This high demand ensures that engineers are more likely to find employment and establish a successful career in Canada.

While engineering professionals are in demand across Canada, certain provinces need engineers more have a greater need for engineers than others. Alberta, for example, has a thriving oil and gas industry that requires many engineers.

Ontario and British Columbia are also known for their strong job markets in engineering, particularly in sectors such as technology and manufacturing. However, it's important to note that demand can vary depending on industry trends and economic factors, so it's wise to research the specific job market in the desired province before making a decision.

Varied and Abundant Work Opportunities

Canada offers engineers various work opportunities across different industries. Whether working in the energy sector, manufacturing, or construction, engineers in Canada can explore diverse fields and gain valuable experience.

The country's strong economy and stable job market give engineers a wealth of options. Moreover, the government's focus on innovation and technology opens up even more avenues for engineers to contribute to cutting-edge projects and research.

Provides a Path to Permanent Residency in Canada

Immigrating to Canada as an engineer offers immediate job prospects and provides a path to permanent residency. The Canadian government recognizes the importance of skilled workers. It has implemented various immigration programs to attract and retain them.

The Express Entry system, for example, allows skilled workers, including engineers, to apply for permanent residency based on their qualifications and work experience. This pathway to permanent residency offers engineers the opportunity to build long-term careers and enjoy the benefits of living in Canada permanently.

Competitive and High Salaries

Engineers in Canada are well compensated for their skills and expertise. The country offers competitive salaries that reflect the high demand for engineering professionals. Engineers can expect to earn a comfortable income that allows for a high standard of living and financial stability. The high salaries that engineers in Canada receive are highlighted above.

Additionally, Canada's strong social welfare system ensures that engineers can access excellent healthcare, education, and other essential services. This combination of competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits makes Canada an attractive destination for engineers looking to enhance their professional and personal lives.

FAQs

What are the Best Universities to Study Engineering in Canada?

The Best Universities to study engineering in Canada according to Times Higher Education are:

Can You Work as an Engineer in Canada Without a Work Permit?

You can work in Canada without a valid work permit only if you belong to certain categories that are exempted from the work permit requirement. Learn more about how you can work in Canada without a work permit.