Welders (NOC 72106) are needed in manufacturing, shipbuilding, energy and construction across Canada. Trades also appear in Express Entry’s category-based draws and many provincial nominee programmes.
Pay
Welders commonly earn about CA$25–$38 an hour, and more in remote oil, gas and pipeline work with overtime.
Read also: Canada Express Entry: How to Immigrate Without a Job Offer
Certification in Canada
- Many employers require welders to pass tests under the Canadian Welding Bureau (CWB), such as specific position or process tickets.
- Becoming a fully certified journeyperson welder is managed by each province. Experienced foreign welders can sometimes challenge the certification exam after assessment.
- The Red Seal endorsement lets certified welders work across provinces.
Immigration options
- LMIA-supported work permit with an employer, the most common start.
- Federal Skilled Trades Program through Express Entry. This needs a job offer or a Canadian certificate of qualification.
- Provincial Nominee Programs with skilled-trades streams.
How Canadian employer sponsorship works: most employers hiring a foreign worker must first get a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC), proving they could not find a Canadian to do the job. The employer pays the $1,000 LMIA fee and may not recover it from you. From 1 April 2026, low-wage LMIAs still face a 10% workforce cap (up to 15% for some rural employers in participating provinces) and are refused in many cities with unemployment at or above 6%. Rules change often, so check Canada.ca.
Tips
Prepare photos and videos of your weld work, a list of processes (SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, GTAW) and positions (3G/4G/6G) you can do, and reference letters with exact dates and hours.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Red Seal required to work?
Not always. Welding is a voluntary trade in some provinces, but certification improves pay and mobility.
What welding processes are most in demand?
GMAW/FCAW for fabrication and SMAW/GTAW for pipe and pressure work.
Can I get PR as a welder?
Yes, through the Federal Skilled Trades Program, trades draws and provincial streams.
Information checked in October 2026. Immigration rules change often, so always confirm the latest requirements on the official government website before applying or paying any fees.
