Immigrating to Canada has been a dream for many foreigners due to the country’s high standard of living, good healthcare system, and numerous job opportunities. However, there is a common misconception that you need a degree to make the move, no that’s not true. It is one hundred percent possible to relocate to Canada without a degree and still build a successful life there.
Canada’s immigration system is designed to attract skilled workers who can contribute to the country’s economy. It is true that a university degree gives you a higher chance and opportunities, Nevertheless, it is not the only criterion considered. The Canadian government knows that experience and skills acquired through other avenues can also be valuable assets to the country’s economy.
In this article, we will discuss all possible ways to move to Canada without a degree and provide valuable tips to support your application and get approved.
Why Immigrate To Canada?
Before going into the reason why this post is written, let’s first understand why so many people aspire to relocate to Canada. Canada is known for its welcoming environment, high quality of life, and stable economy. It ranks high in education, healthcare, and job opportunities. This and many more are some of the good reasons that inspire people to decide moving to Canada.
Is It Possible To Move To Canada Without A Degree?
Yes, Normally, having a degree can open doors to many opportunities for you, but it’s not the only route to Canadian immigration. Canada has many processes for people with various levels of education, skills, and experience.
How To Immigrate To Canada Without A Degree
Canada offers many immigration pathways for immigrants who don’t have a university degree but possess valuable skills, work experience, or trade qualifications.
These are some programs designed to attract skilled workers, who can contribute to the Canadian economy, it is also designed for workers who don’t have degrees.
1. Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
The Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) is a Canadian immigration program designed for skilled workers in trade occupations.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Work Experience: At least two years of full-time work experience in a skilled trade within the last five years.
- Job Offer or Certification: Either a valid job offer for at least one year or a certificate of qualification in that skilled trade from a Canadian authority.
- Language Proficiency: A minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) score of 5 for speaking and listening, and CLB 4 for reading and writing in either English or French.
- Other Requirements: Must meet the job requirements for that skilled trade as per the Canadian National Occupational Classification (NOC).
2. Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
PNPs allow provinces and territories to select candidates who meet their unique labor market and economic needs, it is designed to fill regional skill shortages and attract foreigners who have the qualifications to contribute to the local economy.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Work Experience: At least one year of full-time work experience in a specific skilled occupation that is in demand in the province.
- Job Offer: Some PNPs require a valid job offer from a provincial employer, while others focus on applicants who have skills in high-demand industries like trades, healthcare, or agriculture.
- Language Proficiency: Varies by province, but usually CLB 5-7 in either English or French.
- Education: Even though a degree is not required, some provinces may require a certain level of education or training in a relevant field, especially for skilled trades.
Provinces Favoring Skilled Workers:
- Ontario
- British Columbia
- Alberta
3. Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)
The Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) is a Canadian immigration program that allows Canadian employers to hire foreign workers temporarily to fill labor shortages in specific occupations.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Job Offer: A valid job offer from a Canadian employer is mandatory.
- Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA): Employers must have a positive LMIA, proving that hiring a foreign worker will not negatively impact the Canadian labor market.
- Work Experience: Applicant must have the required skills and experience for the job being offered.
- Language Requirements: Requires basic proficiency in English or French.
4. Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) is one of the immigration programs under Canada’s Express Entry system, specifically designed for foreign workers who have already gained work experience in Canada.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Canadian Work Experience: At least one year of full-time (or equivalent part-time) skilled work experience in Canada within the last three years.
- Job Skill Level: Work experience must be in a job classified under National Occupational Classification (NOC) skill type 0, A, or B.
- Language Proficiency: A CLB score of 7 for jobs in NOC 0 or A, and CLB 5 for NOC B jobs.
- Other Requirements: No specific education requirement.
5. Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) is a Canadian immigration program designed to attract skilled workers to Canada’s Atlantic provinces, Newfoundland and Labrador, Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia, and New Brunswick.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Job Offer: A valid job offer from an employer in one of the Atlantic provinces.
- Work Experience: One year of full-time work experience in the last three years, in a job that’s classified as skill type 0, A, B, or C under NOC.
- Education: No degree is required, though candidates must have a high school diploma or equivalent.
- Language Proficiency: CLB 4 or higher, making it one of the less stringent programs in terms of language requirements.
6. Agri-Food Immigration Pilot
The Agri-Food Immigration Pilot is a federal immigration program designed to attract skilled workers in the agriculture and food processing sectors to Canada.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Work Experience: At least one year of full-time, non-seasonal work experience in one of the eligible industries.
- Job Offer: A permanent, full-time job offer from a Canadian employer in the agri-food sector.
- Language Proficiency: A minimum CLB score of 4 in either English or French.
- Education: A high school diploma is required, but a degree is not necessary.
7. Start-Up Visa Program
The Start-Up Visa Program is a Canadian immigration program designed to attract entrepreneurs who want to start a business in Canada.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Business Idea: You must have a qualifying business that can compete on a global scale.
- Support from Designated Organizations: You need support from a designated venture capital fund, angel investor group, or business incubator.
- Language Proficiency: CLB 5 or higher in English or French.
- Financial Requirements: Sufficient proof of funds to support yourself and your family upon arrival in Canada.
Job Opportunities Without A Degree In Canada
If you are wondering what kinds of jobs you can get in Canada without a degree, the answer is plenty. Many sectors in Canada, value practical skills, experience, and a strong work ethic. Here is a list of job opportunities in Canada that do not require a degree:
- Web Developer
- Electrician
- Plumber
- Medical Assistant
- Sales Representative
- Customer Service Representative
- Construction Labourer
- Warehouse Worker
- Delivery Driver
- Landscaper/Groundskeeper
- Retail Associate
- Food Service Worker
- Security Guard
- Agri-Food Worker
- IT Support Technician
- Home Support Worker
- Cashier
- Barista
- Event Coordinator Assistant
- Pet Care Worker
Salary Expectation Of Workers Without Degree In Canada
Here is a table presenting the salary expectations for various jobs in Canada that do not require a degree:
| Job Title | Average Annual Salary (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Web Developer | $55,000 – $85,000 |
| Electrician | $60,000 – $90,000 |
| Plumber | $55,000 – $80,000 |
| Medical Assistant | $40,000 – $60,000 |
| Sales Representative | $45,000 – $75,000 (plus commission) |
| Customer Service Representative | $35,000 – $50,000 |
| Construction Labourer | $40,000 – $60,000 |
| Warehouse Worker | $30,000 – $45,000 |
| Delivery Driver | $35,000 – $50,000 |
| Landscaper/Groundskeeper | $30,000 – $50,000 |
| Retail Associate | $30,000 – $40,000 |
| Food Service Worker | $28,000 – $38,000 |
| Security Guard | $30,000 – $45,000 |
| Agri-Food Worker | $30,000 – $45,000 |
| IT Support Technician | $40,000 – $65,000 |
| Home Support Worker | $35,000 – $50,000 |
| Cashier | $28,000 – $35,000 |
| Barista | $25,000 – $35,000 |
| Event Coordinator Assistant | $35,000 – $50,000 |
| Pet Care Worker | $25,000 – $40,000 |
Conclusion
Immigrating to Canada without a degree is not only possible but achievable with the right approach. Build your skills, arrange your documents, and prepare your application. Remember, every journey is unique, and with determination and dedication, you can overcome any obstacles that may arise.
FAQs
- Can I move to Canada with just work experience?
Yes, Canada values work experience and has immigration programs tailored for skilled tradespeople. - What language tests do I need to take?
You need to take either the IELTS (English) or TEF (French) to prove your language proficiency. - Are there jobs in Canada for non-degree holders?
Yes, Canada has plenty of job opportunities in skilled trades, services, and more. - Can I apply for permanent residency as a temporary foreign worker?
Yes, many temporary workers eventually apply for permanent residency. - Is it difficult to move to Canada without a degree?
While it may seem challenging, Canada offers various programs for non-degree holders with the right skills and experience.