Licensing for Skilled Trades

Skilled trades are an important part of Canada’s economy. They provide a great way to earn a steady income and develop transferable skills that can be used in various fields. Many skilled trades offer job security, decent wages, benefits, and the opportunity to work with your hands. Skilled trade jobs require a combination of knowledge, experience, and technical skills. Depending on the trade, many people become certified through an apprenticeship program or college coursework.

Licensing for Skilled Trades

Trade certification for experienced international workers:

If you already have experience in a particular trade, you may be eligible to receive trade certification from your local trade board. This certification is usually obtained through an examination that tests your knowledge and skills in the trade. Once you have received certification, it can be used to apply for higher-paying jobs or promotions.

How can I get a certification for my trade from a provincial, territorial, or federal body for the Federal Skilled Trades Program?

To be eligible for the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), you must have an approved Certificate from a provincial, territorial, or federal body. To obtain this certificate, you must meet certain criteria, such as having at least two years of full-time work experience in the trade. You will then need to submit proof of your experience, as well as complete an application and pay a fee.

Certification:

Once you have received a Certificate of Qualification from a provincial, territorial, or federal body, you may be eligible to receive additional certifications that are specific to the trade you are working in. For example, welders may be eligible for certification through the Canadian Welding Bureau, while electricians may be eligible for certification from the Canadian Electrical Code Council.

Learn about qualifications recognition:

If you are moving to Canada from another country and want to pursue a skilled trade, you may need to have your qualifications recognized by a provincial or territorial body before you can get a certification or apply for an apprenticeship. Many provinces and territories have specific programs and processes in place to recognize foreign credentials, so make sure you research the options available to you.

Apprenticeship Grants:

If you are an apprentice in a skilled trade, you may be eligible for apprenticeship grants. These grants can help cover the cost of tuition and other related expenses while you complete your apprenticeship program. Apprenticeships can also help you gain valuable work experience that can lead to higher wages and better job opportunities.

Apprenticeship Incentive Grant for Women:

This is a federal grant designed to encourage more women to enter the skilled trades. If you are a woman who is interested in pursuing an apprenticeship, you may be eligible for this grant. This grant provides financial assistance to help cover the costs of tuition and other related expenses while you complete your apprenticeship program.

How to Apply? 

We, Can-America Immigration, have been helping clients to do their certification for the trades that they are experienced in to apply for their PR process. If you have at least two years of experience in the last five years in a skilled trade, consult us to learn more about the certification process and to start with your application.