Ottawa opens new immigration pathway for skilled workers

August 5, 2023

By HR Reporter |

Ottawa is looking to fill job openings in the skilled trades through immigration.

The first trades round for category-based selection under the federal government’s Express Entry – Canada’s flagship economic immigration management system – will kick off this week, according to the government.

The initial focus is construction, with Ottawa looking for applicants with trades expertise in carpentry, plumbing and welding, among others.

“It’s 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,” says Marc Miller, minister of immigration, refugees and citizenship. “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.”