Expert Tips for Mechanics Relocating to Canada or the USA

At Rockstar Recruiting we specialize in helping mechanics in Canada and the USA find great jobs. The vast majority of jobs we work on require that someone already has authorization to work in the country (either Canada or the USA.) Unfortunately getting that authorization (work permit/visa) is not easy process. While we are not experts in immigration and are not authorized to issue work permits, there are some tips we have collected over the years that we hope you find helpful.

SUGGESTED PREPARATIONS FOR A SMOOTH TRANSITION:

These are some tips that are fairly universal, regardless of where you are relocating to. Many of these are even applicable to candidates that are not relocating or moving within country:

• Ask for reference letters from your current and previous employers
  • Ensure this is on company letterhead and includes the references contact information
  • Make sure that these are in English or translations are provided
• Have copies of all trade and safety-related courses, certifications, and licenses
• Obtain a transcript and/or retain copies of your education courses and/or completed programs (i.e. High School Diploma, College Diploma, University Degree) and get an educational credential assessment completed to assess the Canadian or American equivalency
• If necessary, improve your English communication skills
• Do not expect a potential employer to pay for your relocation costs, have money set aside and do not forget to budget for moving your tools which can be quite costly
• Research where you want to move, a prospective employer will be more impressed if you tell them where you want to move and why as opposed to that you just want to move to a country

RELOCATING TO CANADA?

So you and your family have chosen to make Canada your future home.  Skills Canada estimates over one million skilled trade workers are currently needed across Canada and approximately 40% of new jobs created in the next 10 years will be in skilled trades.  Experienced Mechanics are in high demand throughout the country

Skilled workers looking to make Canada their permanent home can apply through the Federal Express Entry system choosing from the three different streams (Federal Skilled Trades, Federal Skilled Worker, and Canadian Experience class), depending on which is the best option for them.

Some general minimum requirements applicants must meet as outlined on their site, include:

• Skilled work experience
• Language ability
• Education

As mentioned previously, go to the website for the body that governs the trades for your specific province/territory of choice to be assessed accurately for your trade and learn more details about what certificates of qualifications are needed and how to get it.

RELOCATING TO THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA?

The USA also has a shortage of skilled mechanics.  The Department of Labor estimates they are currently facing a shortage of 1.1 million skilled workers which includes Mechanics. These numbers are increasing substantially each year as the current workforce is retiring and not enough young people are pursuing a career in the trades.

Diesel Mechanics, Automotive Service Technicians and Heavy Equipment Mechanics that are interested in relocating to the USA may be able to obtain an immigration employment-based visa, such as an EB-3 that is specifically designated for those “classified as a skilled worker, professional, or unskilled worker (other worker).”  Similar to the Canadian Express Entry program, you must meet certain minimum requirements:

• At least 2 years relevant work experience
• Education credentials
• Permanent, full-time job offer

For more information on the work visa process, requirements, and fees, visit the U.S Citizenship and Immigration Services website.

As mentioned at the outset. We are not immigration experts but hopefully these tips will help you get started. Although Rockstar Mechanics is unable to assist with the work visa or immigration process, once you have the required paperwork to legally work in Canada or the USA, contact us and we can help find a job in your trade.

***Please note this article originally appeared at – https://rockstarhvac.com/guide-skilled-trade-workers-looking-immigrate-canada-usa/ and was modified for mechanics. ***