How to Immigrate to Canada as a Carpenter

The demand for skilled professional workers in Canada is exploding. It is common knowledge that a whole generation of young people have chosen to quit working and have followed the trend of In today’s competitive job market, many individuals are seeking ways to become a carpenter in Canada and secure a stable, well-paying career. With thousands of graduates vying for the same qualifications, it has become increasingly challenging to stand out in a saturated professional landscape. In Canada, this has led to a significant exodus of skilled professionals from the workforce, creating a substantial gap in various industries. Fortunately, young people are beginning to recognize the lucrative opportunities available in the trades, particularly carpentry, which is among the top five most in-demand and highest-paid trades in the country.

The average salary for a qualified carpenter in Canada is approximately $65,026 per year, which is 27% higher than the national average salary. This growing demand for skilled tradespeople presents a unique opportunity for those looking to become a carpenter in Canada and secure a prosperous future.

How You Can Immigrate to Canada

The Express Entry program is Canada’s premier immigration stream, designed to expedite the immigration process for talented foreign workers. Established in 2015, this program allows skilled individuals to settle in Canada quickly and efficiently. The Express Entry program consists of three sub-streams:

1. Skilled Worker Program – for individuals with managerial or professional qualifications and experience.
2. Skilled Trades Program – for qualified trades workers and journeymen, including those in:
   • Major Group 72: Industrial, electrical, and construction trades (including carpenters)
   • Major Group 73: Maintenance and equipment operation trades
   • Major Group 82: Supervisors and technical jobs in natural resources, agriculture, and related production
   • Major Group 92: Processing, manufacturing, and utility supervisors and central control operators
   • Minor Group 632: Chefs and cooks
   • Minor Group 633: Butchers and bakers
3. Canada Experience Class – for individuals who have at least one year of work experience in Canada in one of the above categories.

Skilled Trades Program Requirements

To qualify for the Skilled Trades Program, you must meet the following requirements:

• Skilled Work Experience: At least two years of work experience in a skilled trade within the last five years before applying.
• Job Offer or Certification: A valid full-time job offer (minimum one-year contract) or a certificate of qualification as a plumber from a Canadian provincial, territorial, or federal authority.
• Language Ability: You must pass a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) test, achieving a minimum score of 4 in all four sections: reading, writing, listening, and speaking.
• Qualifications: While there is no formal educational requirement, having your qualifications evaluated can enhance your application score.
• Eligibility: You must be eligible to immigrate to Canada, meaning no criminal record, good health, and legal status in your current country.

Upon arrival in Canada, you will need to be assessed by the provincial authority. Each province has its own independent body for skill assessment, so ensure you are evaluated in the province where you intend to work. Alternatively, you can apply directly to the province through the Provincial Nominee Program if they need skilled carpenters.

Atlantic Immigration Pilot

If you prefer a quicker route, obtaining a valid job offer and a temporary work permit allows you to start working in Canada sooner. The Atlantic Immigration Pilot is an immigration program targeting skilled and unskilled individuals in Newfoundland and Labrador, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Nova Scotia. Due to labor shortages in this region, these provinces are actively seeking foreign workers to fill various roles. A valid job offer and the intention to settle in Atlantic Canada can lead to immediate permanent residency application submission.

Become a Carpenter in Canada

If you are not yet a certified carpenter, consider pursuing your apprenticeship in Canada. Carpenter apprenticeships typically last four years, similar to a university degree, but you will earn a salary while gaining practical experience. Starting at about 50% of a skilled carpenter’s salary, your earnings will increase monthly until you achieve Certified Carpenter status.

During your apprenticeship, you will complete approximately 1,540 hours of practical work, complemented by 8-week technical training blocks each year. The total cost for this training is around $2,000 per year, which includes textbooks, courses, personal protective equipment, and union registration. In contrast, college tuition for international students can reach up to $20,000 per year.

Obtaining permanent residency in Canada is relatively straightforward, as most provinces are eager to retain skilled carpenters. After all, why would they invest in your training only for you to take your expertise elsewhere? By choosing to become a carpenter in Canada, you are not only securing a rewarding career but also contributing to the growth of the Canadian economy.