Canada is facing a growing demand for skilled trades workers, and automotive service technicians (mechanics) are among the most needed professions. The country’s immigration system is open to skilled workers from around the world, including Foreigners, who meet specific criteria and are looking to migrate permanently or temporarily.
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This article provides an in-depth guide for Foreign mechanics who wish to move to Canada, covering visa options, requirements, step-by-step application processes, and expert tips to increase your chances of success.
2. Why Work as a Mechanic in Canada?
Benefit
Details
High Demand
Average salary: CAD 45,000–$70,000/year depending on experience and province.
Good Pay
Average salary: CAD $45,000–$70,000/year depending on experience and province.
Pathway to PR
Eligible for permanent residency through programs like Express Entry and PNP.
Work Benefits
Access to healthcare, worker protection laws, and family relocation options.
Career Growth
Opportunities to specialize in diesel, heavy-duty, or electrical mechanics.
3. Visa Types for Mechanics
Visa Type
Description
Eligibility
Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
For skilled trades professionals under Express Entry.
At least 2 years of experience, language proficiency, and possibly a job offer.
Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
Provincial governments nominate candidates to meet local labor needs.
Must apply to a specific province and meet its criteria.
Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)
For short-term work with a valid job offer and LMIA.
For short-term work with a valid job offer and an LMIA.
Agri-Food Pilot or Rural & Northern Immigration Program (if applicable)
For regions or industries needing skilled workers.
Location-specific and job-specific eligibility.
4. General Requirements for Foreign Mechanics
Requirement
Details
Work Experience
Minimum of 2 years in full-time paid work as an auto mechanic in the past 5 years.
Trade Certification
Optional for Express Entry but necessary for licensing once in Canada.
Language Proficiency
IELTS or CELPIP test: at least CLB 5 for listening/speaking and CLB 4 for reading/writing.
Education Credential Assessment (ECA)
Assessment of your certificates (secondary or tertiary) by WES or equivalent.
Proof of Funds
Needed for Express Entry unless you have a valid job offer.
Job Offer (optional)
Greatly increases success in both Express Entry and PNP streams.
Police Certificate
Shows you have no serious criminal convictions.
Medical Exam
Must pass a government-approved health check.
5. Step-by-Step Visa Application Process
Step
Action
Step 1
Register and write the IELTS or CELPIP English proficiency test.
Step 2
Register and write the ELTS or CELPIP English proficiency test.
Step 3
Create an Express Entry Profile under the Federal Skilled Trades Program.
Step 4
Search for job offers through Canadian job boards or apply to Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).
Step 5
If you receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA), submit your application with all supporting documents.
Step 6
Complete biometrics, police report, and medical examination.
Step 7
Wait for the visa decision, then get your Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR).
6. Recognized Skilled Trade Programs for Mechanics
Mechanics are included in Canada’s National Occupation Classification (NOC) under the following codes:
NOC Code
Job Title
TEER
72410
Automotive service technicians
TEER 2
72401
Truck and transport mechanics
TEER 2
73301
Small engine and equipment mechanics
TEER 3
Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) includes these occupations and is your most likely path if you’re a foreign mechanic.
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7. Licensing and Credential Assessment
While you don’t need a Canadian license to apply for a visa, most provinces will require you to become certified after arrival.
Province
Licensing Body
Trade Certification
Ontario
Skilled Trades Ontario
310S – Automotive Service Technician
Alberta
Apprenticeship and Industry Training (AIT)
Must challenge the certification exam
British Columbia
SkilledTradesBC
May require “Red Seal” endorsement
Important Notes:
Foreign licenses are not automatically recognized.
You may need to challenge a trade exam to get certified.
Red Seal Certification allows interprovincial work.
8. Commonly Required Documents
Document
Purpose
Passport
Proof of identity and travel document
Trade License (if any)
Shows prior qualification as a mechanic
ECA Report
Verifies your educational background
IELTS/CELPIP Test
Measures English proficiency
Work Reference Letters
Shows job titles, duties, salary, and employer details
Proof of Funds
Required for some immigration streams
Police Clearance
Confirms no criminal record
Medical Exam Certificate
Certifies health status
9. Tips for a Successful Application
Tip
Explanation
Tailor Your Resume to Canadian Standards
Use a Canadian-style resume with clear job duties.
Get Verified References
Use official company letterheads and include job responsibilities.
Improve IELTS Scores
Higher scores boost Express Entry profile points.
Target High-Demand Provinces
Apply to places like Alberta, Saskatchewan, or Manitoba.
Use Job Portals
Look for real job offers on Canadian job boards like Job Bank.
Be Honest in Documentation
Provide verifiable and truthful information.
Start Credential Recognition Early
If planning to get licensed quickly after arrival.
10. Dos and Don’ts
DOs
DON’Ts
✔ Gather your documents early
✘ Don’t pay unlicensed agents for job offers
✔ Research licensing bodies in your destination province
✘ Don’t ignore Red Seal certification options
✔ Use certified translation if documents aren’t in English
✘ Don’t submit poorly prepared CVs
✔ Practice and aim for high IELTS scores
✘ Don’t use fake credentials or reference letters
✔ Secure a job offer if possible
✘ Don’t forget proof of funds unless exempted
✔ Use the correct NOC code
✘ Don’t mix NOC responsibilities with unrelated trades
11. Conclusion
Migrating to Canada as a mechanic as a foreigner is very possible with the right steps. With strong demand for automotive professionals, Canada’s immigration system provides multiple pathways—whether through Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs, or Temporary Work Permits.
Start by understanding your job classification under the NOC, prepare your ECA and IELTS, and build a solid application. Always avoid shortcuts, stick to truthful documentation, and consider hiring an RCIC-certified immigration consultant if needed.
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