Welder, Pipe Welder, Oil & Gas

The median hourly wage for welders (NOC 72106) in Canada is $31.25 as of January 2026, with low wages at $22.00 per hour and high wages at $40.50 per hour. Full-time annual earnings average $65,000 based on 40 hours per week. These figures reflect national data across all provinces.

International welders require an employer-specific work permit supported by a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) costing $1,000, or qualify via Global Talent Stream with 10-day processing. Fees include $155 for the work permit application and $85 biometrics. Welders (TEER 2) may use Express Entry Federal Skilled Trades with 2 years full-time experience.

A high school diploma or equivalent is required to start a welder apprenticeship, which totals 6,720 hours including 6,000 on-the-job and 720 classroom hours over 4 years. At least 1-2 years experience is needed for journeyperson status via provincial exam. Red Seal certification confirms national standards.

Submit a resume listing welding tickets, CWB certifications, apprenticeship hours, and safety training like WHMIS 2015 and confined space entry. Include proof of Red Seal or provincial journeyperson certificate and 3 references. For immigrants, add work permit and language test results like IELTS CLB 5.