How to Relocate to Canada as a Factory Worker

Relocating to Canada as a factory worker offers not only a stable source of income but also the chance to enjoy a high standard of living in one of the most worker-friendly countries in the world. With its advanced manufacturing industry, strong labor laws, and immigration pathways designed to attract foreign talent, Canada remains a top destination for people looking to build new careers abroad.

This comprehensive guide explains how you can relocate to Canada as a factory worker, the major immigration programs available, and practical steps to secure employment and residency legally.

Why Canada Needs Factory Workers

Canada’s manufacturing sector is a vital part of its economy, employing hundreds of thousands across industries like food processing, automobiles, electronics, packaging, and textiles.
However, an aging workforce and labor shortages have created thousands of vacancies for both skilled and semi-skilled factory workers.

From Ontario’s automobile plants to Alberta’s food processing factories, employers are actively hiring international workers through visa sponsorships and government-approved work programs.

Foreign factory workers help Canadian industries meet production targets, maintain export levels, and ensure business continuity—all while enjoying fair wages, safe working conditions, and potential long-term residency opportunities.

7 Easy Ways to Relocate to Canada as a Factory Worker

There are several official routes to immigrate to Canada as a factory worker. Each pathway has specific requirements and benefits, depending on your experience, education, and future goals.

1. Express Entry Immigration Programs

The Express Entry System is Canada’s most popular immigration pathway for skilled workers. It manages applications for three major programs:

a. Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)

Designed for skilled individuals with work experience outside Canada. Candidates are evaluated under a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), which assigns points based on:

• Age

• Education level

• Work experience

• English or French language proficiency

• Adaptability

To qualify, you must:

• Have at least one year of full-time work experience in the past 10 years.

• Prove your language ability through IELTS or CELPIP (for English) or TEF (for French).

• Obtain an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) to validate your academic qualifications.

• Achieve a competitive CRS score (usually 470+ points for selection).

Successful applicants receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency during regular Express Entry draws.

b. Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)

If you have a background in a skilled trade or technical role (e.g., machine operation, welding, equipment maintenance), this is your best route.

Requirements:

• Two years of full-time experience in a trade or factory-related job within the last five years.

• Proof of meeting job requirements as defined by the National Occupational Classification (NOC).

• Language test results (minimum CLB 5 in speaking and listening, CLB 4 in reading and writing).

c. Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

For individuals who already have Canadian work experience (at least one year). If you’ve previously worked in Canada under a temporary permit, this pathway allows you to transition to permanent residency easily.

All three programs under Express Entry are processed online, making them fast and transparent, with most cases finalized within six months.

2. Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)

Each Canadian province and territory runs its own Provincial Nominee Program to meet local labor demands. The PNP is ideal for factory workers who wish to settle in a specific region where manufacturing jobs are in high demand.

How It Works:

1. Choose a province (e.g., Ontario, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba).

2. Review their nomination streams for skilled or semi-skilled workers.

3. Apply directly or submit an Expression of Interest (EOI).

4. Once nominated, you receive additional CRS points (usually +600), almost guaranteeing permanent residency through Express Entry.

Example:

Ontario’s Employer Job Offer Stream under its PNP frequently lists openings for machine operators, packaging assistants, and industrial workers.

PNPs are often more flexible than federal programs, making them a top choice for factory workers who already have a job offer or work experience related to manufacturing.

3. Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)

The Temporary Foreign Worker Program allows Canadian employers to hire foreign workers to fill labor shortages when no suitable Canadians are available.

This program is employer-driven, meaning you must first secure a job offer from a Canadian employer who has obtained a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).

Steps to Apply:

1. Get a Job Offer: Apply to factories or manufacturing companies in Canada.

2. Employer Applies for LMIA: They must prove they need foreign workers.

3. Receive a Positive LMIA: This document is necessary for your work permit.

4. Apply for a Work Permit: Submit your application to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

5. Start Working in Canada: Once approved, travel to Canada to begin your employment.

Duration: Work permits are usually valid for 1–2 years, renewable upon employer request.

Benefits:

• Direct job placement

• Potential for permanent residency later through other immigration programs

4. International Mobility Program (IMP)

The IMP allows foreign workers to obtain work permits without requiring an LMIA. This program is designed to meet unique labor needs and includes various categories.

Key IMP Streams:

• Intra-Company Transfers – For employees of multinational companies relocating to Canadian branches.

• Significant Benefit Category – For workers whose employment brings cultural or economic benefits to Canada.

• Spousal Open Work Permits – For spouses or partners of foreign workers or students.

• Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWP) – For international students who complete their studies in Canada.

Factory workers may qualify under employer-specific exemptions if they are transferred within an international company or if their work contributes to economic growth.

5. Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)

The Atlantic Immigration Program targets newcomers who want to live in Canada’s eastern provinces: New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador.

Employers in these provinces can hire foreign factory workers directly without needing an LMIA. The program provides a pathway to permanent residency once the worker has completed one year of employment.

Eligibility Requirements:

• A valid job offer from an AIP-designated employer.

• Language proficiency (minimum CLB 4).

• High school diploma or equivalent education.

• Proof of financial support for yourself and your dependents.

The AIP is ideal for applicants seeking a simpler, faster route to settle permanently in smaller Canadian communities.

6. Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP)

The RNIP focuses on smaller towns and rural communities that face chronic labor shortages. Many manufacturing plants and factories in these areas regularly hire through this program.

To qualify, you need:

• A valid job offer from a participating community.

• Work experience relevant to your role.

• Language proficiency (minimum CLB 4).

• Proof of settlement funds.

RNIP gives applicants a direct pathway to permanent residency while promoting regional economic growth.

7. Agri-Food Immigration Pilot (For Food Processing Workers)

If your factory experience involves food or meat processing, you may qualify for the Agri-Food Pilot—a permanent immigration stream that targets essential roles in the food manufacturing sector.

Eligible occupations include:

• Meat cutters and butchers

• Food processing laborers

• Machine operators in food plants

Applicants must:

• Have one year of full-time, non-seasonal work experience in an eligible occupation.

• Possess a valid job offer from a Canadian employer.

• Demonstrate language and financial readiness.

This pilot offers permanent residency opportunities directly, unlike temporary work permits.

Essential Requirements to Work in Canada as a Factory Worker

Before applying, ensure you meet these basic criteria:

• Work Experience: At least 1 year of experience in a factory or industrial setting.

• Education: A high school diploma or equivalent.

• Language: Minimum CLB 4–5 in English or French.

• Health and Security: Medical and police clearance certificates.

• Financial Capacity: Proof that you can support yourself initially.

Tips to Increase Your Chances of Success

1. Get Certified: Take basic machine operation or safety training courses.

2. Learn English or French: Higher scores improve your CRS ranking.

3. Apply Early: Immigration programs open and close quickly.

4. Use Verified Job Portals: Search on Canada Job Bank, Indeed, or WorkBC.

5. Avoid Scams: Legitimate employers and recruiters never ask for money.

Conclusion

Relocating to Canada as a factory worker is achievable with the right preparation and knowledge of immigration pathways. Whether through Express Entry, PNP, or the Temporary Foreign Worker Program, each route offers a legitimate way to live and work legally in Canada.

The key is to secure a genuine job offer, meet the language and eligibility requirements, and follow all application steps carefully. With determination and proper guidance, you can build a stable career and eventually achieve permanent residency in one of the most welcoming countries in the world.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can factory workers apply for permanent residency in Canada?

Yes. Programs like the Provincial Nominee Program, Agri-Food Pilot, and Express Entry allow factory workers to apply for permanent residency after gaining Canadian work experience.

2. What is the average salary for factory workers in Canada?

Factory workers typically earn between CAD 16 to CAD 28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer benefits.

3. Do I need an LMIA for all factory jobs?

Not always. Jobs under the International Mobility Program or Atlantic Immigration Program may not require an LMIA.

4. Are factory jobs in Canada open to both men and women?

Yes. Canadian employers promote equality and diversity, and both men and women are encouraged to apply.

5. How long does it take to process Canadian work permits?

Processing times vary by program and country but typically range between 8 weeks and 6 months.