Applying for Welder/Fabricator Jobs in Canada with Visa Sponsorship for Foreigners
1. Introduction
Canada’s industries—such as construction, manufacturing, oil & gas, infrastructure, and transportation—are experiencing significant shortages of skilled tradespeople, particularly welders and fabricators. With increasing infrastructure projects and workforce retirements, employers are actively seeking qualified candidates and are often open to visa sponsorship through the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) program.
Advertisements
As a Foreign welder or fabricator with experience and technical certification, you can take advantage of these opportunities to work in Canada and even move toward permanent residency.
2. Demand & Wage Overview
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| NOC Code | 72106: Welders and Related Machine Operators |
| Average Pay | CAD 28–$40/hour depending on province and skill level. |
| Top Provinces Hiring | Alberta, Ontario, British Columbia, Saskatchewan. |
| Job Bank Listings | ~700 fabrication welder jobs as of Jan 2025. |
3. Eligibility Requirements for Foreign Applicants
To be a competitive candidate, you should meet the following criteria:
- Experience: At least 2 years of hands-on welding or fabrication experience (MIG, TIG, stick, structural welding, etc.).
- Education/Training: Trade school/certified welding program or equivalent
- Certifications: Canadian Welding Bureau (CWB) or Red Seal certification is a strong asset
- Language: Sufficient English (basic for work permit; CLB 5–7 if pursuing permanent residency)
- Job Offer: Written offer from a Canadian employer willing to apply for LMIA
- Clean Record: Police clearance and medical exam required for visa application
4. Where to Find Sponsorship-Based Welding/Fabrication Jobs
📌 Key Strategies
| Method | Notes |
|---|---|
| Job Bank Canada | Lists LMIA-approved trade roles; use NOC 72106 filter. |
| Indeed.ca / LinkedIn | Search “welder visa sponsorship LMIA”; job postings often show real wage ranges like CAD 30–45/hr. |
| Employer Websites | Companies like Canam Group, Linamar, Hamilton Steel Logistics, and SIN Structures Inc. are known to hire welders with visa support. |
| Recruitment Agencies | Firms connecting international welders with Canadian employers (e.g., using Indeed, sponsorshipjobs.pk). |
⚠️ Beware of job scams: Many fake LMIA listings exist where intermediaries charge fees. Canadians on Reddit warn against jobs asking for money upfront or with generic postings and unrealistic salaries.
Advertisements
5. Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Prepare Your Documents
- International passport (valid ≥6 months)
- Welding/fabrication certificates and training proof
- Updated Canadian‑style resume (see Section 7)
- Cover letter tailored to welder/fabricator roles
- Reference letters from previous employers
- Proof of language ability, if applicable
- Police clearance certificate and medical report
- Portfolio of past projects or weld samples (photos/videos optional)
Step 2: Job Search & Application
- Apply regularly—track applications in a spreadsheet
- Tailor each submission to the specific job and mention the LMIA sponsorship need
- Only apply to listings with clear wages, duties, and legitimate employer details
Step 3: Interview / Skills Assessment
Canadian employers may ask:
- To read blueprints, discuss welding parameters (SMAW, GMAW, GTAW)
- To demonstrate quality control, safety standards, and tool handling
- About teamwork, reliability, and the ability to adapt to Canadian worksite norms
Step 4: Job Offer & LMIA
Once selected:
- The employer issues a job offer letter
- Employer applies for LMIA with ESDC (takes ~4–8 weeks)
- Once a positive LMIA is received, you can apply for a work permit
Step 5: Work Permit Application
File through the IRCC portal, including:
- Job offer and LMIA confirmation
- All personal and professional documentation
- Biometrics, police certificate, and medical exam results
- Visa processing typically takes 8–16 weeks.
6. Resume & Cover Letter Guidelines
Resume Tips:
| Section | What to Include |
|---|---|
| Contact Info | Name, phone, email, location |
| Professional Summary | 2–3 lines summarizing welding/fabrication expertise |
| Skills | Trade certifications (e.g., CWB), apprenticeship |
| Experience | Job title, company, dates, duties, measurable accomplishments |
| Education/Certifications | Trade certifications (e.g. CWB), apprenticeship |
| References | 2–3 referees with contact details |
Cover Letter Tips:
- Address to hiring manager if available
- Mention your welding/fabrication experience and certifications
- State your interest in visa sponsorship and ability to relocate
- Be concise, professional, and stay within 1 page
7. Dos and Don’ts Table
| ✅ Do’s | ❌ Don’ts |
|---|---|
| Apply only to verified LMIA postings | Don’t pay money for a job offer or LMIA |
| Tailor every resume and cover letter | Don’t send generic applications |
| Prepare well for technical and safety interview questions | Don’t exaggerate your experience or certifications |
| Confirm that the wage meets the typical $28–40/hour range | Don’t accept offers that undercut TFWP wage norms |
| Maintain a job application tracker and follow up | Don’t wait passively after submitting your resume |
| Learn Canadian workplace standards & PPE rules | Don’t ignore safety certification opportunities |
8. Transition to Permanent Residency
Express Entry – Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
- NOC 72106 qualifies for trade-based Express Entry draws
- Requires 1 year of Canadian job experience or certification like Red Seal
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
- Provinces like Ontario, Alberta, BC, and Saskatchewan have skilled trades streams
- Valid job offer as a welder/fabricator helps secure nomination
Other Routes
- Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) for employers in Atlantic provinces, not LMIA‑based, but provincial designation is required
9. Real-World Insights from Reddit
“It is very difficult to get an LMIA job if you are outside Canada… Only specific NOCs/trades might work.
“It takes time… but sending many CVs eventually yielded a response.
“Scammers often post LMIA jobs and charge applicants thousands.”
“Network via LinkedIn and show your skills—demo reels or portfolios help.
10. Tips to Maximize Your Success
- Target provinces with high welder demand: Alberta, BC, Ontario, Saskatchewan
- Build a skills portfolio (photos, short video clips) to showcase your work
- Get certifications: CWB, Red Seal (or prepare to challenge after arrival)
- Engage recruiters and networks (LinkedIn trade groups, professional associations)
- Track LMIA employer history: some tools list companies with past LMIA approvals
11. FAQs
Q1: Can I apply without a Canadian welding certificate?
Yes, but Canadian certification (CWB or Red Seal) increases employability and may be required post-arrival.
Advertisements
Q2: How long does the LMIA + visa process take?
Combined, the process typically takes 4–16 weeks, depending on the employer and your responsiveness.
Q3: Can I bring my family?
Yes, most LMIA-sponsored work permits allow you to bring your spouse and dependent children.
Q4: How to spot fake LMIA job postings?
Look out for generic listings, Gmail contact emails, unreasonably high wages, and platforms requesting payment upfront.
Q5: What salary can I expect in Canada?
Most welders/fabricators earn CAD 28–40/hr, with overtime and potential benefits depending on employer and location.
12. Conclusion
Welder and fabrication roles in Canada present a strong opportunity for skilled Foreign tradespeople seeking employment and migration pathways. With proper documentation, a job offer from an LMIA-approved employer, and professional preparation, you can successfully obtain a work permit and later pursue permanent residency.
Next Steps:
- Update your resume and compile documents
- Apply to genuine LMIA-backed welding/fabrication jobs
- Prepare for interviews and clarify employer sponsorship terms
- Track progress, follow up, and stay proactive
- Begin building your pathway to PR via FSTP or PNP after arrival
With dedication, verified applications, and persistence, the goal of working in Canada as a welder/fabricator can become a tangible reality.
Skilled Jobs
| Job Title | Estimated Annual Salary (CAD) |
|---|---|
| 2025 Electrician Jobs in Canada with Visa – APPLY NOW | $55,000 – $75,000 |
| 2025 Mechanic Jobs in Canada with Visa -APPLY NOW | $45,000 – $65,000 |
| 2025 Bricklayer Jobs in Canada with Visa – APPLY NOW | $48,000 – $60,000 |
| 2025 Plumber Jobs in Canada with Visa – APPLY NOW | $52,000 – $70,000 |
| 2025 Carpenter Jobs in Canada with Visa – APPLY NOW | $48,000 – $65,000 |
| 2025 Painter (building/walls) Jobs in Canada | $40,000 – $55,000 |
| 2025 Welder/Fabricator Jobs in Canada with Visa – APPLY NOW | $50,000 – $70,000 |
| 2025 Tailor Jobs in Canada with Visa – APPLY NOW | $32,000 – $45,000 |
| 2025 Generator Technician Jobs in Canada with Visa – APPLY NOW | $45,000 – $60,000 |
| 2025 AC/Refrigeration Technician Jobs in Canada with Visa – APPLY NOW | $50,000 – $70,000 |
Professional Jobs
| Job Title | Estimated Annual Salary (CAD) |
|---|---|
| 2025 Teacher Jobs in Canada with Visa – Apply Now | $55,000 – $95,000 |
| 2025 Nursing Jobs in Canada with Visa – Apply Now | $70,000 – $95,000 |
| 2025 Civil Engineer Jobs in Canada with Visa Visa – Apply Now | $75,000 – $105,000 |
| 2025 Accountant Jobs in Canada with Visa – Apply Now | $65,000 – $90,000 |
| 2025 Pharmacist Jobs in Canada with Visa Apply Now | $85,000 – $115,000 |
| 2025 Lab Scientist Jobs in Canada with Visa – Apply Now | $68,000 – $90,000 |
| 2025 Microbiologist Jobs in Canada with Visa – Apply Now | $70,000 – $92,000 |
| 2025 IT Technician Jobs in Canada with Visa – Apply Now | $65,000 – $95,000 |
| 2025 Journalist Jobs in Canada with Visa – Apply Now | $55,000 – $85,000 |
| 2025 Customer Service Representative Jobs in Canada with Visa – Apply Now | $40,000 – $58,000 |
| 2025 Bank Teller Jobs in Canada with Visa – Apply Now | $38,000 – $55,000 |
| 2025 HR or Administrative Officer Jobs in Canada with Visa – Apply Now | $52,000 – $75,000 |
Trending Jobs
| Job Title | Estimated Annual Salary (CAD) |
|---|---|
| 2025 Truck Driver (Long Haul) Jobs in Canada with Visa – APPLY NOW. | $55,000 – $85,000 |
| 2025 Caregiver (Elderly/Disabled Support) Jobs in Canada with Visa – APPLY NOW. | $30,000 – $45,000 |
| 2025 Heavy Equipment Operator Jobs in Canada with Visa – APPLY NOW. | $50,000 – $75,000 |
| 2025 Butcher / Meat Cutter Jobs in Canada with Visa – APPLY NOW. | $33,000 – $46,000 |
| 2025 Warehouse Worker / Supervisor Jobs in Canada with Visa – APPLY NOW. | $35,000 – $55,000 |
| 2025 Factory Machine Operator / Supervisor Jobs in Canada with Visa – APPLY NOW. | $34,000 – $52,000 |
| 2025 Cleaner Jobs in Canada with Visa – APPLY NOW. | $29,000 – $42,000 |
| 2025 Delivery Driver / Courier Jobs in Canada with Visa – APPLY NOW. | $32,000 – $50,000 |
| 2025 Construction Helper (Skilled Labor) Jobs in Canada with Visa – APPLY NOW. | $38,000 – $56,000 |
| 2025 Early Childhood Assistant Jobs in Canada with Visa – APPLY NOW. | $32,000 – $48,000 |
Unskilled Jobs
| 2025 Unskilled Job Title in Canada with Visa -Apply Now. | Estimated Annual Salary (CAD) |
|---|---|
| 2025 Farm Worker Jobs in Canada with Visa – Apply Now | $30,000 – $40,000 |
| 2025 House Cleaner Jobs in Canada with Visa – Apply Now | $28,000 – $36,000 |
| 2025 Security Guard Jobs in Canada with Visa – Apply Now | $30,000 – $42,000 |
| 2025 Kitchen Assistant Jobs in Canada with Visa – Apply Now | $28,000 – $36,000 |
| 2025 Petrol Attendant Jobs in Canada with Visa – Apply Now | $28,000 – $35,000 |
| 2025 Domestic Worker / Nanny Jobs in Canada with Visa – Apply Now | $28,000 – $38,000 |
| 2025 Construction Labourer Jobs in Canada with Visa – Apply Now | $35,000 – $50,000 |
| 2025 Laundry Attendant Jobs in Canada with Visa – Apply Now | $28,000 – $36,000 |
| 2025 Market Porter / Load Carrier Jobs in Canada with Visa – Apply Now | $28,000 – $35,000 |
| 2025 Fast Food Server Jobs in Canada with Visa – Apply Now | $28,000 – $34,000 |
Advertisements