How to Relocate to Canada as a Factory Worker

Relocating to Canada as a factory worker is a life-changing opportunity that many people around the world aspire to seize. Canada, with its robust economy, high living standards, and welcoming immigration policies, stands as one of the top destinations for skilled workers seeking better career prospects and quality of life. The manufacturing and industrial sector in Canada offers numerous jobs in factories, plants, and warehouses, which are crucial to the country’s economic growth. If you are considering moving to Canada as a factory worker in 2025, understanding the updated immigration pathways, eligibility requirements, and application processes is essential.

Methods to Move to Canada as a Factory Worker

Canada offers multiple immigration routes for factory workers, each with its unique benefits and conditions. To increase your chances of success, it is vital to choose the program that aligns best with your qualifications, work experience, and personal goals. Below, we explore seven of the most effective and accessible ways for factory workers to move to Canada in 2025. Each method includes detailed information about eligibility, application steps, and tips for navigating the process.

Express Entry Immigration Programs

The Express Entry system remains one of Canada’s most popular and streamlined pathways for skilled workers, including factory workers. It oversees the processing of applications for three key federal immigration schemes:

Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

Advertising

Express Entry is a points-based system that ranks candidates according to factors like age, education, work experience, language proficiency in English or French, and other adaptability elements. Those with the highest Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores receive invitations to apply for permanent residency during periodic draws.

This pathway is ideal for factory workers with skilled trade experience, those currently working in Canada, or individuals who have qualifications recognized by Canadian standards.

Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)

The FSWP is designed for foreign workers with skilled job experience outside Canada. To qualify as a factory worker under this program in 2025, you must demonstrate:

At least one year of continuous full-time or equivalent part-time work experience in a skilled occupation listed under Canada’s National Occupational Classification (NOC).
Proven language ability in English and/or French through standardized testing (IELTS, CELPIP for English; TEF for French).
Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) verifying foreign degrees or diplomas are equivalent to Canadian standards.
Sufficient CRS points based on age, education, work experience, language skills, and other criteria.

Advertising

Candidates under FSWP benefit from a transparent, merit-based process that emphasizes skilled labor needs, making it an excellent option for factory workers with professional or technical skills in their field.

Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)

The Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) is specifically designed for skilled workers who have experience in a trade occupation. In 2025, this program remains a key pathway for factory workers involved in specialized trades such as machining, welding, assembly, and other manufacturing-related skilled positions. The FSTP recognizes the importance of tradespeople in Canada’s economy and offers a direct route to permanent residency for those meeting its requirements.

Who is Eligible?

Advertising

To qualify under the FSTP, applicants must:

Possess a minimum of two years’ full-time employment (or an equivalent part-time duration) in the past five years in a skilled trade recognized under Canada’s National Occupational Classification. Classification (NOC) system. For factory workers, this typically includes occupations such as industrial electricians, machinists, welders, heavy-duty equipment mechanics, and other specialized trades.
Meet the job requirements for their specific trade as outlined by the NOC, which may include licensing or certification depending on the province or territory.
Demonstrate proficiency in English or French with a minimum language score (CLB level 5 for speaking and listening, and CLB level 4 for reading and writing).
Have a valid job offer of full-time employment for at least one year, or a certificate of qualification in their skilled trade issued by a Canadian provincial or territorial authority.

The FSTP places emphasis on candidates’ hands-on experience and technical skills, recognizing that factory work often requires practical expertise rather than formal academic credentials.

Application Process

The FSTP is administered through the Express Entry system, meaning that candidates must create an Express Entry profile and be scored under the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). The CRS awards points for:

Age
Education level
Work experience
Language proficiency
Arranged employment or provincial nomination
Other adaptability factors

Candidates with competitive CRS scores receive Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residency during Express Entry draws. However, FSTP applicants can increase their chances by securing a valid job offer or a provincial nomination, both of which add significant points to the CRS.

Once invited, applicants submit a complete application for permanent residency, including proof of work experience, language test results, educational credentials, and other supporting documents. The Canadian immigration authorities then review the application, conduct background and security checks, and assess medical fitness before granting permanent residency.

Benefits of FSTP for Factory Workers

Recognition of Practical Skills: The program values real-world trade experience, making it ideal for factory workers with technical expertise.
Route to Permanent Residency: Successful candidates under the FSTP gain permanent resident status, which allows them to reside and work freely throughout Canada, unlike temporary work permits.
Family Sponsorship: Permanent residency allows applicants to sponsor eligible family members to join them in Canada.
Access to Social Benefits: Permanent residents can benefit from healthcare, education, and other social programs.

Challenges and Tips

Language Criteria: While some tradespeople find language exams challenging, enhancing language proficiency can significantly boost Comprehensive Ranking System points.
Certification: Certain provinces require trades certification, so verifying and obtaining the necessary certificates before applying is advisable.
Job Offers: A valid job offer strengthens applications but is not mandatory. However, securing one can significantly increase CRS points.

Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) is a vital immigration pathway designed for foreign nationals who have already gained skilled work experience within Canada. This program recognizes the value of Canadian labor market experience and aims to retain workers who have proven their ability to contribute to the country’s economy. For factory workers who have spent time working in Canada on a temporary permit, the CEC offers a streamlined path to permanent residency.

Eligibility Criteria for Factory Workers

To qualify for the Canadian Experience Class in 2025, applicants must meet several specific requirements, including:

Work Experience: Have at least one year of full-time (or equivalent part-time) skilled work experience in Canada within the last three years prior to applying. The work experience must be in jobs classified under Skill Type 0 (management jobs), Skill Level A (professional jobs), or Skill Level B (technical jobs and skilled trades) according to Canada’s National Occupational Classification (NOC). Many factory worker roles fall under Skill Level B, which includes occupations such as industrial mechanics, welders, machine operators, and assemblers.
Legal Work Authorization: The work experience must have been obtained legally, with the applicant holding a valid work permit or authorization during their time in Canada.
Language Proficiency: Demonstrate language skills that meet the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level 7 for Skill Type 0 or Level B jobs, and CLB 5 for Skill Level C or D jobs. Language tests accepted include IELTS and CELPIP for English and TEF for French.
Plan to Live Outside Quebec: CEC applicants must intend to live outside the province of Quebec, which operates its own immigration system.

Advantages of Applying Through CEC

Faster Processing Times: The CEC is part of the Express Entry system, which typically processes applications within six months or less, making it one of the fastest routes to Canadian permanent residency.
No Job Offer Required: Unlike some immigration programs, CEC applicants are not required to have a job offer at the time of application, provided they have sufficient skilled work experience in Canada.
Access to Social Benefits: Permanent residents gain access to public health care, social benefits, and education opportunities.
Family Sponsorship: Successful applicants can sponsor spouses, dependent children, and other eligible family members.

Application Process

Create Express Entry Profile: Eligible candidates create an Express Entry profile online, providing details about their work experience, education, language skills, and other personal information.
Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) Scoring: Candidates are scored based on the CRS, which considers factors like age, education, work experience, language proficiency, and whether they have a provincial nomination or arranged employment.
Invitation to Apply (ITA): Candidates with the highest CRS scores receive ITAs during periodic draws conducted by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Submit Application: Upon receiving an ITA, candidates submit a complete application with all required documents such as proof of work experience, language test results, police certificates, and medical exams.
Application Review and Decision: IRCC processes the application, including background checks and medical assessments. If approved, applicants receive permanent resident status.

Important Considerations for Factory Workers

Maintaining Legal Status: It is essential to maintain legal work status while gaining Canadian experience. Working without proper authorization can disqualify applicants.
Language Improvement: Since language proficiency heavily influences CRS scores, investing time and effort into improving language skills will increase chances of success.
Documentation: Detailed and accurate documentation of work experience is critical. Pay stubs, employment letters, and contracts help prove eligibility.
Provincial Opportunities: Although CEC is a federal program, provincial nominee programs (PNPs) may offer additional points or alternative routes for workers with Canadian experience.

Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)

The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) is a critical immigration pathway that allows Canadian provinces and territories to select and nominate individuals who meet their specific labor market needs and economic priorities. In 2025, the PNP continues to be one of the most flexible and accessible options for factory workers aiming to relocate to Canada. Each province operates its own streams tailored to attract workers with particular skills, including those in manufacturing and industrial sectors.

What Makes PNP Unique?

Unlike federal programs like Express Entry, the PNP gives provinces the authority to identify skilled workers who can contribute to their local economies. This regional approach helps address labor shortages specific to certain areas. For factory workers, this means opportunities to settle in provinces actively seeking to fill manufacturing roles.

Provinces such as Ontario, British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba offer PNP streams that often prioritize factory and skilled trades workers. The specific eligibility criteria and application processes vary by province, but the overall objective remains the same: to nominate candidates for permanent residency who will thrive in their provincial job markets.

Eligibility Requirements and Application Process

While requirements vary between provinces, common elements include:

Intent to Reside: Applicants must demonstrate a genuine intention to live and work in the nominating province or territory.
Relevant Work Experience: Proven work experience in a skilled occupation in demand within the province. For factory workers, this often means jobs classified under NOC skill levels 0, A, or B.
Job Offer: Many PNP streams require a valid, full-time job offer from an employer in the province. However, some streams allow applications without a job offer if the candidate has skills in high-demand occupations.
Language Proficiency: Adequate language skills in English or French, meeting the provincial stream’s minimum standards.
Education and Credentials: Educational qualifications may be assessed, sometimes requiring Educational Credential Assessments (ECA).

Step-by-Step PNP Application Overview

Choose the Province or Territory: Research the PNP streams available in each province and select the one that aligns with your skills, work experience, and settlement preferences.
Check Stream Eligibility: Review the specific eligibility criteria for your chosen PNP stream. This might include work experience, job offers, education, and language requirements.
Submit Application to the Province: Apply directly to the provincial government or through an online portal. Some provinces use an Expression of Interest (EOI) system where candidates indicate their interest and are ranked based on points or other factors.
Receive Nomination: If approved, the province will issue a nomination certificate, which significantly boosts your CRS score in the federal Express Entry system.
Apply for Permanent Residency: After receiving a provincial nomination, submit your permanent residency application to the federal government within the specified timeframe (usually six months).
Complete Federal Requirements: Undergo medical exams, security checks, and submit biometrics as part of the federal application process.

Advantages of PNP for Factory Workers

Increased CRS Points: Provincial nominations add 600 points to your Express Entry CRS score, effectively guaranteeing an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency.
Targeted Opportunities: PNPs focus on occupations that are in demand regionally, increasing the likelihood of success for factory workers in high-need areas.
Potential for Lower Language Scores: Some provincial streams accept lower language proficiency levels compared to federal programs.
Faster Processing: Provincial nomination applications can sometimes be processed more quickly, depending on the province.

Popular PNP Streams for Factory Workers

Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP): Ontario regularly nominates skilled trades workers, including machinists, welders, and other factory-related occupations.
British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP): Focuses on attracting skilled workers and tradespeople in manufacturing and processing sectors.
Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP): Includes streams specifically for in-demand occupations such as welders and heavy equipment operators.
Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP): Targets workers in industrial and manufacturing trades.
Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP): Prioritizes skilled workers with employer support in manufacturing sectors.

Challenges and Tips for Success

Employer Support: Securing a valid job offer from a provincial employer can be competitive but is often key to a successful PNP application.
Changing Provincial Criteria: Provinces update their in-demand occupations lists regularly; staying current is essential.
Documentation: Prepare comprehensive documents proving work experience, job offers, and language proficiency.
Settlement Planning: Demonstrate clear intent to reside in the nominating province, as this is closely evaluated.

Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)

The Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) is an important Canadian immigration channel enabling employers to recruit foreign workers temporarily when there is a shortage of qualified domestic candidates. For factory workers seeking to work in Canada in 2025, the TFWP provides an accessible route to enter the Canadian labor market, gain valuable experience, and potentially transition to permanent residency through other programs.

Overview of TFWP for Factory Workers

The TFWP is employer-driven, meaning that the hiring process begins with a Canadian employer who demonstrates a genuine need to recruit a foreign worker. The program is designed to balance labor market demands with protections for Canadian workers. It is particularly relevant in manufacturing sectors where specialized skills or labor shortages exist.

Key Features of the TFWP

Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA): To hire a foreign worker through TFWP, employers must obtain a positive LMIA from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC). The Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) evaluates if employing a foreign worker would benefit or at least not harm the Canadian job market. It requires employers to prove that they have made reasonable efforts to hire Canadians or permanent residents first.
Job Offer Requirement: Foreign workers must have a valid job offer supported by a positive LMIA before applying for a work permit.
Work Permit Duration: Work permits under TFWP are usually issued for the length of the job offer, with a maximum duration of up to two years. Extensions are possible depending on job continuity and compliance with program rules.

Eligibility and Application Process for Factory Workers

Securing a Job Offer: The first step for factory workers is to obtain a job offer from a Canadian employer who is eligible to participate in the TFWP.
Employer Applies for LMIA: The employer applies for a positive LMIA by submitting evidence of recruitment efforts, job details, wages offered, and compliance with employment standards.
LMIA Approval: Upon approval, the employer receives a positive LMIA letter, which the foreign worker will need to include in their work permit application.
Foreign Worker Applies for Work Permit: Using the positive LMIA and job offer, the foreign worker submits a work permit application to a Canadian visa office or online.
Work Permit Issuance and Travel: Once approved, the worker can travel to Canada and commence employment.

Benefits of the TFWP for Factory Workers

Access to Canadian Work Experience: Working under TFWP allows factory workers to gain valuable Canadian labor market experience, which can improve eligibility for permanent residency programs such as the Canadian Experience Class or Provincial Nominee Programs.
Pathway to Permanent Residency: Many workers transition from temporary work permits to permanent residency through provincial nominations or Express Entry programs.
Opportunity to Live in Canada Temporarily: TFWP provides a legal and straightforward way to work temporarily in Canada, with the possibility of family accompaniment depending on work permit conditions.

Important Considerations and Challenges

Employer-Driven Process: Workers have limited control over the process since it depends heavily on employer participation and LMIA approval.
Job Specificity: Work permits are tied to a specific employer and job; changing jobs requires a new work permit.
Temporary Nature: Work permits are temporary; without permanent residency applications, foreign workers must leave Canada upon permit expiry.
LMIA Processing Times: The LMIA process can be lengthy and requires thorough documentation from employers.
Compliance with Employment Standards: Employers and workers must adhere to Canadian labor laws, including wage and working condition requirements.

Tips for Factory Workers Applying Through TFWP

Research Employers Carefully: Look for employers with good reputations and LMIA approvals in the past.
Prepare Complete Documentation: Both employers and workers should maintain accurate records of job offers, contracts, and LMIA approvals.
Consider Transition Pathways: Plan early for how to transition from temporary work permits to permanent residency programs.
Improve Language Skills: Higher language proficiency may increase chances of success in future immigration applications.

International Mobility Program (IMP)

The International Mobility Program (IMP) is a unique Canadian immigration pathway that allows foreign workers to obtain work permits without the need for a Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). Unlike the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP), the IMP focuses on facilitating the entry of foreign workers who provide significant social, cultural, or economic benefits to Canada. This program covers a broad range of situations, including intra-company transfers, spouses of skilled workers, and other special categories.

For factory workers in 2025, the IMP offers more flexible options to work in Canada, especially when their work supports broader business or economic interests.

How Does IMP Work?

The IMP is designed to facilitate temporary work permits for foreign nationals in cases where an LMIA is not required. This makes the application process faster and less bureaucratic for eligible candidates and their employers.

Key categories under the IMP relevant to factory workers include:

Intra-Company Transfers: Workers transferred within multinational companies to Canadian branches. This is common for factory managers, supervisors, or technical experts.
Significant Benefit Work Permits: For foreign workers whose employment is deemed to provide significant benefit to Canada, including jobs that contribute to economic growth or cultural enrichment.
Open Work Permits for Spouses or Common-Law Partners: Spouses of skilled workers or international students may obtain open work permits allowing them to work in Canada freely.
Post-Graduation Work Permits: International graduates from Canadian institutions can work in Canada temporarily without LMIA requirements.

Eligibility and Application Process

The eligibility criteria and application process for IMP vary based on the specific category under which an applicant applies. However, common elements include:

Determining the Category: Applicants must identify the IMP category applicable to their employment situation. Factory workers who are intra-company transferees or spouses of skilled workers often use the IMP route.
Job Offer or Transfer Proof: Depending on the category, a valid job offer or proof of intra-company transfer may be necessary.
Work Permit Application: Applicants submit work permit applications to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), often including proof of employment, identity documents, and other supporting materials.
Processing Times: IMP work permits generally have faster processing times compared to TFWP due to the exemption from LMIA requirements.
Work Permit Duration: The duration varies based on the specific category and employment terms.

Benefits of IMP for Factory Workers

No LMIA Required: The absence of LMIA significantly reduces processing times and paperwork, making it a more straightforward pathway.
Flexibility: Some IMP work permits are open, allowing holders to work for any employer in Canada.
Family Inclusion: Spouses and dependents often benefit from open work permits or study permits, facilitating family integration.
Pathway to Permanent Residency: Time spent working under the IMP can count towards eligibility for permanent residency programs such as the Canadian Experience Class.

Important Considerations

Limited to Specific Categories: Not all factory workers qualify under the IMP; eligibility depends on the nature of employment and employer.
Temporary Nature: IMP permits are generally temporary; applicants should plan for transitioning to permanent residency if desired.
Compliance: Workers and employers must comply with all Canadian work and immigration regulations.

Practical Advice for 2025 Applicants

Consult with Employers: Discuss the possibility of applying under the IMP if you work for a multinational company with Canadian branches.
Verify Eligibility: Review current IRCC guidelines regularly as IMP categories and eligibility criteria can evolve.
Prepare Thorough Documentation: Include proof of qualifications, employment history, and relationships where applicable.
Consider Language Proficiency: Strong language skills improve integration and can assist with future immigration pathways.

Conclusion

Relocating to Canada as a factory worker in 2025 offers many promising opportunities but also requires a clear understanding of the immigration landscape. Canada’s diverse immigration pathways cater to various worker profiles, skills, and experience levels. Whether you are a skilled tradesperson, a temporary worker, or someone with Canadian labor experience, there is a program suited to your circumstances.