LMIA FinderCan a Carpenter from United States Immigrate to Canada?
Yes — here are the immigration pathways, active jobs, and salary data for carpenters from United States looking to move to Canada.
Immigration Pathways for United States Citizens
CUSMA/USMCA Work Permit
Trade AgreementCitizens of United States can access intra-company transfer and professional worker categories under CUSMA without LMIA.
Express Entry
Permanent ResidenceCitizens of United States can apply through Express Entry (FSW, CEC, or FST) based on CRS score.
Employer-Sponsored LMIA
Temporary WorkA Canadian employer can sponsor a worker from United States through the LMIA process for a work permit.
Key Requirements
Work Experience
You need at least two years of full-time paid work experience in a skilled trade. A valid trade certification or qualification may also be required for the Federal Skilled Trades program.
Language Tests
You must prove your English or French skills by taking an approved language test. IELTS General Training or CELPIP are accepted for English; TEF Canada or TCF Canada for French. A CLB 7 or higher in all abilities is recommended for Express Entry.
Education & Trade Certification
You will need an ECA to verify your trade qualifications from United States. You must also obtain a provincial Certificate of Qualification by passing the relevant trade examination.
Red Seal Certification
This trade is designated under the Red Seal Program. Obtaining a Red Seal endorsement allows you to work across all provinces/territories. You can challenge the Red Seal exam through a provincial apprenticeship authority.
Job Offer
While a valid job offer no longer adds CRS points (removed March 2025), it remains an eligibility requirement for some Express Entry programs and is needed for employer-sponsored work permits. There are currently 1294 active carpenter openings on Job Bank.
Proof of Funds
You must show you have enough money to support yourself and your family when you arrive in Canada. The current minimum is $15,263 for a single applicant and $28,362 for a family of 4. This requirement is waived if you have a valid Canadian job offer.
| Family Size | Minimum Funds (CAD) |
|---|---|
| 1 (Single) | $15,263 |
| 2 (Couple) | $19,001 |
| 3 | $23,360 |
| 4 | $28,362 |
| 5 | $32,168 |
| 6 | $36,280 |
| 7 | $40,392 |
| Each additional member | +$4,112 |
CUSMA/USMCA Advantage
As a United States citizen, you may qualify for CUSMA professional categories that do not require an LMIA. Check if your occupation is on the CUSMA professions list for expedited work permit processing.
Eligible Programs for Carpenters
Express Entry (FSW)
High MatchFederal Skilled Worker program for qualified professionals with work experience.
Provincial Nominee Program
High MatchProvinces nominate workers with in-demand skills. Adds 600 CRS points.
Temporary Work Permit (LMIA)
High MatchEmployer-sponsored LMIA work permit — gain Canadian experience, then transition to PR.
Atlantic Immigration Program
Medium MatchEmployer-driven program for Atlantic Canada with faster processing.
International Experience Canada
Medium MatchWorking holiday or young professional visa for eligible countries.
Carpenter Salaries in Canada
| Province | Median | Low | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canada | $32.12/hr | $22.00 | $44.23 |
| Alberta | $32.02/hr | $22.68 | $42.60 |
| British Columbia | $32.08/hr | $22.89 | $43.31 |
| Manitoba | $26.60/hr | $19.66 | $36.60 |
| New Brunswick | $23.75/hr | $18.30 | $32.42 |
| Newfoundland and Labrador | $27.40/hr | $20.00 | $38.45 |
| Northwest Territories | $30.00/hr | $22.80 | $39.00 |
| Nova Scotia | $24.57/hr | $19.47 | $33.25 |
| Nunavut | $34.35/hr | $20.46 | $51.99 |
| Ontario | $31.29/hr | $22.17 | $46.29 |
| Prince Edward Island | $22.00/hr | $15.00 | $27.50 |
| Quebec | $36.38/hr | $24.29 | $43.85 |
| Saskatchewan | $29.69/hr | $19.42 | $38.88 |
Top Provinces Hiring Carpenters
Current Carpenter Openings
Carpenter
$37.00 hourlyRight-Link Transport Ltd. · Abbotsford, British Columbia
Carpenter
$36.60 hourlyB4u 13 Construction Ltd · Surrey, British Columbia
Framing Carpenter
$38.40 hourlyAvjot Construction Co. Ltd · Richmond, British Columbia
Carpenter Helper
$25.50 hourlyHundal Finishing Ltd · Surrey, British Columbia
Carpenter
$37.60 hourlyCore Drywall Ltd. · Calgary, Alberta
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