Why Carpenters, Welders, and Electricians Are Canada’s Hidden Permanent Residency Route
October 20, 2025
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Canada faces an ongoing labour shortage in skilled trades. Retirements, infrastructure projects, and housing needs have created a demand for carpenters, welders, and electricians. These jobs are essential for building and maintaining the nation’s infrastructure.
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has recognized this gap. That’s why skilled trade workers often receive priority through immigration programs.
Express Entry and Skilled Trades
The Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) under Express Entry directly targets workers in trades. Carpenters, welders, and electricians are eligible for this pathway. Applicants need a valid job offer or a certificate of qualification in their trade.
In addition, Express Entry occasionally holds category-based draws focusing on trades, giving applicants in these fields higher chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
Many provinces in Canada run immigration streams for skilled trades. For example, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and Ontario often invite carpenters, welders, and electricians through their PNPs.
Receiving a provincial nomination adds 600 Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points to your Express Entry profile. This almost guarantees permanent residency.
Job Security and Wages
Tradespeople enjoy stable employment across Canada. Carpenters earn an average of 27–35 CAD per hour, welders 28– 40 CAD per hour, and electricians 30– 45 CAD per hour depending on location.
Beyond wages, many employers are eager to sponsor foreign workers because local demand exceeds supply. This employer support can lead to LMIA-backed job offers, which also strengthen PR applications.
Pathway to Permanent Residency
Working in a skilled trade does more than provide income. It gives candidates Canadian work experience, which is highly valued under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). This makes it easier to transition from temporary worker status to permanent resident.
Additionally, skilled trades are prioritized in immigration planning. Canada’s Immigration Levels Plan continues to allocate thousands of spots for these professions annually.
Benefits of Skilled Trade Immigration
- Faster PR processing through Express Entry and PNPs.
- Strong job security due to high demand nationwide.
- Employer support with LMIA-backed offers.
- Opportunity to gain Canadian experience valued in PR applications.
Challenges to Consider
- Credential recognition may be required for some provinces.
- Job offers are often location-specific, limiting flexibility.
- Physical demands of the trade require good health and stamina.
Despite these challenges, the long-term advantages make carpentry, welding, and electrical work attractive immigration pathways.
Carpenters, welders, and electricians represent Canada’s hidden PR route. With strong demand, government support, and clear immigration pathways, tradespeople are essential to Canada’s growth. For newcomers seeking stability and residency, skilled trades can be the fastest and most reliable path to building a future in Canada.
FAQs
Can Tradespeople Apply for Permanent Residency Without a Degree?
Yes. Canada’s immigration system values skilled work experience, and degrees are not mandatory for trades like carpentry, welding, or electrical work.
Which Immigration Programs Are Best for Carpenters, Welders, and Electricians?
The FSTP under Express Entry and several Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) are ideal for these professions.
Do Tradespeople Need Canadian Certification to Immigrate?
Not always. Some provinces require a certificate of qualification, but many pathways accept foreign credentials combined with job offers.