Canada unveils a new immigration pathway for carpenters, plumbers and welders from Nigeria, other countries

Canada has announced a streamlined immigration pathway for skilled workers with specific expertise in carpentry, plumbing and welding.

This was contained in a statement by the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) on Tuesday. “Canada’s Express Entry (EE) system is now tailored to provide a streamlined and efficient pathway for individuals with expertise in critical fields,” it said.

It said by prioritising the invitation of skilled newcomers with experience in the trades, the country aims to meet the increasing demand for talent and fill key positions that contribute to the nation’s economic growth and advancement.
“These category-based selection rounds will continue throughout the year, alongside general invitation rounds, and more details will be announced in the coming weeks,” it added.

According to Marc Miller, minister of IRCC, it is absolutely critical to address the shortage of skilled trades workers in our country, and part of the solution is helping the construction sector find and maintain the workers it needs.
“This round of category-based selection recognizes these skilled trades’ workers as essential, and I look forward to welcoming more of these talented individuals to Canada,” he said.

In May, Sean Fraser, the former minister of IRCC, announced changes to EE through category-based selection, a new process to welcome skilled newcomers with work experience in priority jobs as permanent residents.