Did you know that there is a high demand for skilled tradespeople in Canada? Are you looking to study in Canada and obtain permanent residency? The country offers excellent opportunities for individuals interested in pursuing trade courses.
With a booming economy and a high demand for skilled workers, Canada has become a top destination for international students!
In this article, I will introduce you to the top 15 trade courses to study in Canada for permanent residency. Whether you have a passion for electrical engineering, welding, culinary arts, or esthetics, I have compiled a list of lucrative courses that can open doors to a promising career and secure your future in Canada.
Best Trade Courses in Canada for Permanent Residency
In this section, we will explore the best trade courses to study in Canada for permanent residency. These courses are carefully regulated to provide a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, equipping you with the expertise needed to excel in your chosen trade.
1. Automotive Service Technician
This program is gaining popularity in Canada as one of the best trade courses for individuals seeking permanent residency. As the automotive industry continues to thrive, there is an increasing demand for skilled professionals who can diagnose, repair, and maintain vehicles.
Where to Study?
| School | Location | Program | Website |
| Centennial College | Toronto, Ontario | Automotive Service Technician | Centennial College – Automotive Service Technician Program |
| British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) | Burnaby, British Columbia | Automotive Service Technician Apprenticeship | BCIT – Automotive Service Technician Apprenticeship |
| Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) | Edmonton, Alberta | Automotive Service Technician | NAIT – Automotive Service Technician Program |
Eligibility
To enroll in an automotive service technician program, aspiring students generally need to meet the following eligibility criteria:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Proficiency in English or French (depending on the program and institution)
- Meeting any additional program-specific requirements (if applicable)
- Specific entry requirements may vary between institutions, so it is advisable to check the program’s official website for detailed information.
Average Course Duration
On average, students can expect the following course durations:
- Certificate/Diploma Program: 1 to 2 years
- Apprenticeship Program: 3 to 4 years (includes on-the-job training and classroom instruction)
Average Tuition Fees
- CAD 5,000 – 15,000 per year
Career Prospects and Average Salary
Some potential career paths and their salary include:
- Automotive Service Technician/Technologist: CAD 66,629 per year
- Automotive Parts Technician: CAD 52,927 per year
- Service Advisor: CAD 62,060 per year
- Automotive Instructor: CAD 84,564 per year
Pathway for Permanent Residency (PR)
Completing an automotive service technician program can provide a pathway for individuals to obtain permanent residency in Canada. The following factors contribute to the program’s potential to help you achieve PR status:
- High Demand Occupation
- Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
- Canadian Experience
- Express Entry System
- Language Proficiency
2. Carpentry
Carpentry is one of the most in-demand jobs in Canada, and it is one that can offer a path to permanent residency.
Where to Study
| School | Location | Program | Website |
| Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) | Edmonton, Alberta, NAIT | Carpentry Apprenticeship program | Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) – Carpenter |
| George Brown College | Toronto, Ontario | Carpentry and Renovation Technician | George Brown College – Carpentry and Renovation Technician |
| British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) | Burnaby, British Columbia | Carpentry Apprenticeship Program | British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) – Carpentry Apprenticeship Program |
Eligibility
To enroll in a carpentry program in Canada, the following eligibility criteria generally apply:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Minimum age requirement (varies by institution)
- English language proficiency (proof of language test may be required)
- Completion of any prerequisite courses, if applicable
Average Course Duration
Generally, the programs can be categorized as follows:
- Apprenticeship Programs: Usually last for 4 years, including a combination of classroom instruction and on-the-job training.
- Diploma/Certificate Programs: These programs have varying durations, ranging from 1 to 2 years, depending on the intensity and focus of the curriculum.
Average Tuition Fees
- Tuition fees for these programs typically range from CAD 5,000 – 15,000 per year for domestic students. International students may have higher tuition fees.
Career Prospects and Average Salary
Some of the potential career paths for carpentry graduates include:
- Construction Companies Carpenter: CAD 49,163 per year
- Self-Employed Carpenter: CAD 68, 115 per year
- Renovation and Restoration Carpenters: CAD 41,000 per year
Pathway for Permanent Residency
The pathway for permanent residency through carpentry typically involves the following steps:
- Complete a Carpentry Apprenticeship
- Write the Red Seal Examination
- Apply for Permanent Residency
3. Culinary Arts
Culinary arts is one of the best trade courses in Canada for PR, consistently growing in demand as the population grows.
Where to Study
| School | Location | Program | Website |
| George Brown College | Toronto, Ontario | Hospitality and Culinary Arts | George Brown College – Hospitality and Culinary Arts |
| Vancouver Community College | Vancouver, British Columbia | Culinary Arts | Vancouver Community College – Culinary Arts |
| Niagara College | Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario | Culinary Arts | Niagara College – Culinary Arts |
Eligibility
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Some programs may also consider relevant work experience or prior culinary training.
- English language proficiency
- Visa and study permit (international students)
Average Course Duration
- On average, a diploma or certificate program in culinary arts can range from 8 months to 2 years.
- Some institutions also offer bachelor’s degree programs in culinary arts, which typically take around 4 years to complete.
Average Tuition
- CAD 10,000 – 25,000
Career Prospects and Salary
- Executive Chef: CAD 71,784
- Sous Chef: CAD 48,190
- Pastry Chef: CAD 43,487
- Catering Manager: CAD 50,411
- Food and Beverage Manager: CAD 49, 709
Pathway for Permanent Residency
Here’s how studying culinary arts can help you in obtaining PR:
- Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
- Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
- Express Entry System
4. Electrical Trade Courses
Electrical trade courses and apprenticeships are among the top trade courses in Canada. It can provide you with the much-needed Canadian trade certificate required for permanent residency.
Where to Study
| School | Location | Program | Website |
| British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) | Burnaby, British Columbia | Electrical Apprenticeship | British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) – Electrical Apprenticeship |
| George Brown College | Toronto, Ontario | Electrical Techniques | George Brown College – Electrical Techniques |
| SAIT Polytechnic | Calgary, Alberta | Electrician | SAIT Polytechnic – Electrician |
Eligibility
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Basic proficiency in English is required, often demonstrated through language proficiency tests like IELTS or TOEFL.
- Some institutions may have additional requirements, such as specific math or science prerequisites.
Average Course Duration
- Electrical Foundations programs typically span 4 to 6 months.
- Electrician Pre-Apprenticeship programs can range from 6 to 12 months.
- Full apprenticeship programs, including in-class and on-the-job training, usually last 4 to 5 years.
Average Tuition
- CAD 10,000 per year
Career Prospects and Salary
- Journeyman Electrician: CAD 78,128
- Apprentice Electrician: CAD 57,711
- Maintenance Electrician: CAD 78,128
- Private/Contract Electrician: CAD 94,521
Pathway for Permanent Residency
Studying an electrician trade course in Canada can be an excellent pathway toward obtaining permanent residency. Here’s how it works:
- Study Permit
- Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
- Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
5. Painting and Decorating
Painting and decorating are among the best trade courses to study in Canada for permanent residency, offering an excellent opportunity to gain valuable skills, a Canadian trade certificate, and secure a brighter future.
Where to Study
| School | Location | Program | Website |
| Sheridan College | Mississauga | Art Fundamentals | Sheridan College – Art Fundamentals |
| George Brown College | Ontario | Painting Program | George Brown College – Painting Program |
Eligibility
- High school diploma
- English language proficiency
Average Course Duration
- You can expect a course to last anywhere from 6 months to 2 years, depending on the level of certification or diploma you pursue
- Shorter programs often focus on specific skills or areas of expertise
Average Tuition
- CAD 5,000 – 10,000 per year
Career Prospects and Salary
Graduates can pursue careers as:
- Painter and Decorators: CAD 60,394 per year
Pathway for Permanent Residency
Canada’s immigration system recognizes the value of skilled trades and provides pathways for trade course graduates to obtain PR status.
- Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
- Trade Certification and Licensing
6. Welding
Among the best trade courses in Canada that pave the way for permanent residency, welder stands out. With its high demand, competitive salaries, and potential for growth, welding has become a sought-after profession in Canada.
Where to Study
| School | Location | Program | Website |
| Canadian Welding Skills (CWS) | Toronto | Welding | Canadian Welding Skills (CWS) – Welding |
| British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) | Burnaby | Welding | British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) – Welding |
| Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) | Edmonton | Welding | Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) – Welding |
Eligibility
- Minimum age of 18 years.
- High school diploma or equivalent qualification.
- Proficiency in English or French (the medium of instruction).
- Meeting the institution’s specific program requirements (e.g., math or science prerequisites).
Average Course Duration
- On average, the course duration can range from six months to two years
Average Tuition
- CAD 5,000 – 10,000 per year
Career Prospects and Salary
- Welders can progress in their careers by specializing in areas such as pipe welding, structural welding, underwater welding, or welding inspection.
- The average salary is CAD 95,235 per year
Pathway for Permanent Residency
Here’s how the pathway for permanent residency works for welders:
- Trade-Specific Immigration Programs
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
- Job Opportunities and Employer Sponsorship
- Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) and the Express Entry system.
7. Hairstyling
Canada is renowned for its excellent educational institutions, offering top-notch training programs for hairstylists. It is one of the top trade courses in Canada.
Where to Study
| School | Location | Program | Website |
| Vancouver Hairdressing Academy | Vancouver | Hairstyling | Vancouver Hairdressing Academy – Hairstyling |
| John Casablancas Institute | Gastown | Hairstyling | John Casablancas Institute – Hairstyling |
Eligibility
- Minimum age of 18 years or above
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Good communication and interpersonal skills
Average Course Duration
- The average course duration for a hairstylist program in Canada ranges from 9 to 12 months.
Average Tuition
- CAD 8,000 – 12,000 per year
Career Prospects and Salary
- Salon Stylist: CAD 39,876
- Editorial Stylist: CAD 31,000
Pathway for Permanent Residency
A hairstylist course in Canada not only provides excellent career opportunities but also offers a pathway for permanent residency (PR). Here’s how it works:
- Obtain a Study Permit
- Gain Work Experience
- Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
8. Mechanic Apprenticeship
Mechanic courses and apprenticeships are among the best trade courses for PR in Canada for individuals seeking permanent residency.
Where to Study
| School | Location | Program | Website |
| British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) | Burnaby | Millwright | British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) – Millwright |
| Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) | Edmonton | Industrial Mechanic | NAIT – Industrial Mechanic |
| George Brown College | Toronto | Industrial Mechanic | George Brown College – Industrial Mechanic |
Eligibility
- High school diploma or an equivalent qualification
- Proficiency in English or French is essential, as most courses are conducted in either of these languages.
- Some institutions may require you to pass an entrance examination or assessment to evaluate your aptitude and suitability for the program.
Average Course Duration
Generally, the course can be completed within the following timeframes:
- Certificate/Diploma Program: 1 to 2 years
- Apprenticeship Program: 4 to 5
Average Tuition
- The tuition fees for industrial mechanics range from CAD 2,000 – 10,000 per year
Career Prospects and Salary
Here are some potential career paths and the average salaries associated with them:
- Industrial maintenance mechanic: CAD 78,548 per year
- Millwright: CAD 79,436 per year
Pathway for Permanent Residency
Here’s how the Industrial Mechanic course helps in the process:
- Express Entry System
- Extra CRS Points
- Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
9. Equipment Technician
With a high demand for skilled workers in the equipment maintenance and repair field, pursuing this course can open doors to a rewarding career and help you achieve your dreams of settling in Canada. It is one of the top trade courses for PR in Canada and offers a Canadian trade certificate.
Where to Study
| School | Location | Program | Website |
| Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) | Edmonton | Heavy Equipment Technician | Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) – Heavy Equipment Technician |
| British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) | Burnaby | Equipment Technician | British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) – Equipment Technician |
| Centennial College | Toronto | Equipment Technician | Centennial College – Equipment Technician |
Eligibility
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Meet the English language proficiency requirements, often demonstrated through standardized tests like IELTS or TOEFL. Click here to read a comprehensive guide I wrote on how to prepare for IELTS from home.
- Provide any additional documents or certifications required by the institution
Average Course Duration
Typically, you can expect the following durations:
- Certificate/Diploma programs: 1-2 years
- Apprenticeship programs: 3-4 years
Average Tuition
- In general, the cost of tuition ranges from $5,000 to $15,000
Career Prospects and Salary
Pursuing an Equipment Technician course in Canada can lead to promising career prospects. As a graduate, you can find employment in various sectors, including construction, mining, transportation, and manufacturing.
Some of the potential job titles include:
- Equipment Technician: CAD 55,980 per year
- Heavy Equipment Mechanic: CAD 91,943 per year
- Service Technician: CAD 53,963 per year
- Field Service Technician: CAD 55,572 per year
Pathway for Permanent Residency
After completing your Equipment Technician course, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residency through various immigration streams, such as:
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
- Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).
These programs recognize the skills and work experience gained in Canada and provide opportunities to settle permanently.
10. Plumbing
Plumbing is a highly sought-after trade qualification in Canada, with a constant demand for skilled professionals.
Where to Study
| School | Location | Program | Website |
| British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) | Burnaby | Plumber | British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) – Plumber |
| George Brown College | Toronto | Plumbing Fundamentals | George Brown College – Plumbing Fundamentals |
| Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) | Edmonton | Plumber | Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) – Plumber |
Eligibility
- High school diploma or equivalent
- English language proficiency
Average Course Duration
Here are the typical durations for different programs:
- Plumbing Foundation Programs: These programs generally last between 6 to 12 months.
- Plumbing Apprenticeship Programs: The duration of apprenticeship programs can vary, usually ranging from 2 to 5 years, depending on the province and the specific trade.
Average Tuition
- CAD 5,000 to 10,000 per year
Career Prospects and Salary
- As a plumber, you can work in various sectors, including residential, commercial, industrial, and institutional settings.
- The average salary is CAD 78,138 per year
Pathway for Permanent Residency
The Canadian government recognizes the significance of skilled trades and encourages individuals with these skills to apply for permanent residency. Here’s how plumbing can help in the process:
- Express Entry System
- Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
11. Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic
This is one of the best trade courses for PR in Canada, offering a Canadian trade certificate.
Where to Study
| School | Location | Program | Website |
| George Brown College | Toronto | HVAC Technician | George Brown College – HVAC Technician |
| British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) | Burnaby | HVAC and Refrigeration | British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) – HVAC and Refrigeration |
| Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC) | Dartmouth | Refrigeration and Air Conditioning | Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC) – Refrigeration and Air Conditioning |
Eligibility
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Proficiency in English
- Some programs may have additional prerequisites or specific admission requirements, so it’s essential to check the specific criteria of the institution you wish to apply to.
Average Course Duration
Generally, you can expect the following durations:
- Certificate/Diploma Programs: Approximately 1-2 years of full-time study.
- Apprenticeship Programs: Usually 4-5 years, including a combination of on-the-job training and classroom instruction.
Average Tuition
- In general, the cost of tuition ranges from CAD 5,000 – 15,000.
Career Prospects and Salary
Here are some career prospects and average salaries in this field:
- HVAC/R Technician: CAD 58,272
- Service Technician: CAD 53,963
- Energy Efficiency Specialist: CAD 64,000
Pathway for Permanent Residency
Pursuing a refrigeration and air conditioning mechanic course in Canada can be a significant step toward obtaining permanent residency. Here’s how it helps:
- Express Entry System
- Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
12. Sheet Metal Worker
If you are looking for a trade course that not only provides excellent career prospects but also provides a Canadian trade certificate and paves the way for permanent residency, then becoming a sheet metal worker is a fantastic choice.
Where to Study
| School | Location | Program | Website |
| British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) | Burnaby | Sheet Metal | British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) – Sheet Metal |
| Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) | Edmonton | Sheet Metal Worker Journeyman | Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) – Sheet Metal Worker Journeyman |
| George Brown College | Toronto | Sheet Metal Worker | George Brown College – Sheet Metal Worker |
Eligibility
- Minimum age of 18 years (may vary by province)
- High school diploma or equivalent (some institutions accept mature students without a diploma)
- Proficiency in English (verbal and written)
- Good physical fitness and manual dexterity
Average Course Duration
- The average duration of a sheet metal worker program in Canada typically ranges from 24 to 36 weeks, depending on the institution and the depth of the curriculum.
Average Tuition
- On average, you can expect to pay between CAD 5,000 and CAD 10,000 for a comprehensive program.
Career Prospects and Salary
Upon completing a Sheet Metal Worker program, you can explore various career paths, including:
- Sheet metal worker: CAD 79,105
Pathway for Permanent Residency
Here’s how the Sheet Metal Worker course helps in the process of obtaining permanent residency:
- Work experience points
- Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
- Canada Experience Class (CEC)
13. Steamfitting and Pipefitting
Steamfitting and pipefitting are among the best trade courses to study in Canada.
Where to Study
| School | Location | Program | Website |
| George Brown College | Toronto | Steamfitting | George Brown College – Steamfitting |
| British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) | Burnaby | Steamfitter/Pipefitter | British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) – Steamfitter/Pipefitter |
| Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC) | Dartmouth | Pipe Trades | Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC) – Pipe Trades |
Eligibility
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Proficiency in English or French
- Good physical health and the ability to perform manual tasks involved in steamfitting/pipefitting.
- International students may need a valid study permit to enroll in a trade course in Canada.
Average Course Duration
- The average duration of a Steamfitting/Pipefitting course in Canada is approximately 2 to 3 years
Average Tuition
- In general, the tuition fee cost ranges from CAD 5,000 to 10,000
Career Prospects and Salary
Some potential job titles include:
- Steamfitter: CAD 104,199
- Pipefitter: CAD 87,262
Pathway for Permanent Residency
Here’s how the course helps in the PR process:
- Work Experience
- Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
- Express Entry System
- Job Opportunities
14. Heavy Equipment Operation
Heavy equipment operation is widely regarded as one of the best trade courses to study in Canada, offering great career prospects and opportunities for permanent residency.
Where to Study
| School | Location | Program | Website |
| British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) | British Columbia | Equipment Operation | British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) – Equipment Operation |
| Saskatchewan Polytechnic | Saskatchewan | Heavy Equipment and Truck Technician | Saskatchewan Polytechnic – Heavy Equipment and Truck Technician |
| Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) | Alberta | Industrial Heavy Equipment Technology | NAIT – Industrial Heavy Equipment Technology |
Eligibility
- Minimum age requirement (usually 18 years or older)
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Physical fitness and capacity to carry out manual tasks
- English language proficiency (may require a language test such as IELTS or TOEFL)
Average Course Duration
- The average duration of a heavy equipment operator course in Canada is typically around 6 to 12 months.
Average Tuition
- On average, you can expect to pay between CAD 5,000 to 15,000 for the entire course.
Career Prospects and Salary
As a heavy equipment operator, you can expect excellent job prospects and competitive salaries.
The average salary for heavy equipment operators in Canada is CAD 77,167.
Pathway for Permanent Residency
Upon completing a recognized heavy equipment operation course and gaining work experience in the field, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residency through various immigration programs, such as:
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
- Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
15. Truck Driving
With the ongoing growth in the transportation industry, truck driving continues to be a lucrative career choice for individuals seeking stable employment and long-term prospects.
Where to Study
| School | Location | Program | Website |
| Canadian Truck Training Centre | Mississauga | Truck Driving | Canada Truck Training Centre – Truck Driving |
| North Shore Driving School | Burnaby | Truck Driving | North Shore Driving School – Truck Driving |
Eligibility
- A high school diploma or equivalent
- A valid Class 5 driver’s license or equivalent
- Applicants must meet specific health and vision requirements to ensure they are fit for truck driving.
Average Course Duration
- Generally, truck driving courses can range from several weeks to several months.
Average Tuition
On average, the tuition fees for a truck driving course range from CAD 3,000 to 8,000
Career Prospects and Salary
As a truck driver, you can explore various employment opportunities, including long-haul trucking, local delivery, freight transportation, and specialized trucking services.
The average salary for a truck driver is CAD 57,183
Pathway for Permanent Residency
To enhance your chances of obtaining PR through truck driving, you can follow these steps:
- Complete a Truck Driving Course
- Secure Employment
- Gain relevant work experience
- Apply through the Express Entry system
- Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
How to Settle in Canada?
You can utilize the Immigration and Education Services (IES) Portal if you seek a seamless way to settle in Canada. We aim to facilitate your transition to Canada by offering assistance with your educational needs through our established service. To learn more about our services, schedule a consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Several courses are eligible for Permanent Residency (PR) in Canada, including information technology (IT), healthcare, engineering, business and management, and trades skilled work.
The easiest way to obtain PR in Canada may vary depending on individual circumstances and qualifications. However, some common pathways include Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), and Canadian Experience Class (CEC).
Several trade courses in Canada offer pathways to PR. Some of the popular trade courses include heavy equipment operation, plumbing, welding, carpentry, electrician, and automotive service technician.
Several trade jobs are in high demand in Canada. Some of the most sought-after trade jobs include electricians, plumbers, welders, heavy equipment operators, carpenters, and HVAC technicians.
The best trade to get into in Canada depends on your interests, skills, and the demand in the job market.
Several trades in Canada offer competitive salaries. While actual wages may vary depending on factors such as experience, location, and specialization, some trades tend to have higher earning potential. These include powerline technicians, elevator mechanics, and boilermakers.
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Conclusion
Studying a trade course in Canada can provide a solid foundation for a successful career and open doors to permanent residency. The top trade courses mentioned in this article offer diverse opportunities across industries such as engineering, automotive, culinary arts, and more. By acquiring in-demand skills and gaining practical experience, you can position yourself for long-term employment and a promising future in Canada.
If you are unsure which path to follow, visit the IES Portal; our consultants will help you understand your skillset and settle in Canada with a trade course that is perfect for you!
DISCLAIMER: Please note that the information provided on this website is for general understanding only and should not be considered as legal advice. Every pages of the website is not updated every day. It is recommended to consult with our lawyers for latest information.
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