Canada is actively seeking skilled tradespeople, including plumbers, to fill labor shortages across the country.
As a plumber, you have a high chance of securing a job in Canada with visa sponsorship.
This guide outlines the easiest ways to get a visa sponsorship as a plumber including the most relevant immigration programs, tips for landing a sponsored job, and how to navigate the process effectively.
Table of Contents
Understand Canada’s Demand for Plumbers
Canada faces a skilled trades shortage, particularly in plumbing, construction, and maintenance roles.
Many regions, including Ontario, British Columbia, and Alberta, actively seek foreign-trained plumbers to help fill gaps in the labor force.
This demand works in your favor, as employers in high-demand sectors are often more willing to sponsor foreign workers.
Top Immigration Programs for Plumbers
Here are some of the most accessible immigration programs for plumbers seeking work in Canada:
Express Entry (Federal Skilled Trades Program – FSTP)
The Express Entry system includes the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), which is ideal for plumbers.
FSTP is designed for skilled trades professionals with experience in fields like plumbing, welding, and electrical work.
Successful candidates in this stream often get an invitation to apply for permanent esidence if they meet the criteria.
Requirements: Minimum CLB (Canadian Language Benchmark) score of 4, a valid job offer, or a certification of qualification in plumbing from a Canadian provincial, territorial, or federal authority.
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
Most provinces in Canada have PNPs specifically designed for skilled trades.
These programs allow provinces to nominate applicants based on their economic needs.
Popular PNPs for Plumbers:
Here are a list of some of the most popular PNPs for plumbers
Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP)
Targets skilled workers in construction, including plumbers.
Having a job offer from an employer in Ontario increases your chances of selection.
British Columbia PNP
British Columbia often offers nomination for skilled trades, including plumbers, particularly under its Skilled Worker category.
Job offers from BC employers enhance the likelihood of a successful application.
Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)
Under the TFWP, Canadian employers can hire foreign workers for positions they struggle to fill domestically.
Employers willing to hire through TFWP must obtain a Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), which proves that hiring a foreign worker won’t negatively impact the Canadian labor market.
Tip: Target companies or construction firms willing to sponsor LMIAs, as this is a key route to obtaining a work permit and, later, permanent residence.
Finding Employers for Visa Sponsorship as a Plumber
To get visa sponsorship, you’ll need to identify Canadian employers ready to hire foreign workers. Here’s how to go about it:
Job Boards and Websites
- Use Canadian job search platforms that are popular among foreign workers:
- Job Bank Canada – Official job board listing LMIA-approved jobs.
- Indeed Canada and Workopolis – Filter searches for employers open to sponsoring foreign workers.
- Skilled Trades Websites – Websites like Skilled Trades Canada often have job postings for plumbers and other trades roles.
Networking and Job Fairs
Attend virtual job fairs that connect Canadian employers with foreign workers, especially in the trades sector.
Networking on LinkedIn with Canadian plumbing associations or joining relevant Facebook groups can also help uncover job leads and connect with employers.
Recruitment Agencies Specializing in Skilled Trades
Certain recruitment agencies specialize in skilled trades and may have partnerships with Canadian employers looking for plumbers.
Agencies like Hays Recruitment and Canada Staffing Agency can be valuable resources.
Tips for Securing Sponsorship as a Plumber
Some of the tips for securing sponsorship as a plumber as follows
Build a Strong Resume
Highlight your plumbing skills, certifications, and any experience with systems or codes similar to Canadian standards.
Get Certified
Consider getting your skills assessed or certified according to Canadian standards.
The Red Seal certification is widely recognized across Canada for tradespeople.
Although optional, it can make you a more attractive candidate to employers.
Gain Experience
Canadian employers typically prefer candidates with several years of relevant experience.
The more specialized your plumbing skills are (e.g., in industrial or residential plumbing), the better your chances of landing a job.
Navigating the Visa Application Process
After receiving a job offer with sponsorship, you’ll need to apply for a work visa. Here’s how the process works:
Step 1: LMIA Approval
Your employer must apply for an LMIA through Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC).
Once the LMIA is approved, you’ll be eligible to apply for a work visa.
Step 2: Apply for a Work Permit
With the LMIA document, apply for a Temporary Work Permit through Canada’s immigration portal.
You’ll need supporting documents, including a valid passport, your job offer letter, LMIA approval, and any trade certifications.
Step 3: Move Towards Permanent Residence
Many plumbers use their work experience in Canada as a stepping stone to permanent residence.
After working for a certain period (typically one year), you may qualify for permanent residence under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) within Express Entry, or by reapplying through a relevant PNP.
Alternative Pathways: Working Holiday Visas and Study Programs
If you’re having difficulty securing sponsorship but still want to work in Canada, consider these alternative paths:
Working Holiday Visa
Through the International Experience Canada (IEC) program, citizens from eligible countries can apply for a working holiday visa, allowing them to work in Canada temporarily.
Study Plumbing in Canada
Completing a plumbing course in Canada gives you a Canadian credential, which can make it easier to get a job and a work permit post-graduation.
After your studies, apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) and then transition to permanent residency.
Conclusion
With Canada’s demand for skilled tradespeople, plumbers have a great chance of securing visa sponsorship for jobs in Canada.
By following these steps, staying proactive in your job search, and building connections with Canadian employers, you’ll increase your chances of moving to Canada as a sponsored plumber.