Alberta's Financial Incentives For Skilled Immigrants In Trade Occupations

August 20, 2024— Alberta addresses critical labor shortages in the trade industry by offering financial incentives to attract skilled immigrants. With Canada's national labor force participation rate at its lowest in 20 years, largely due to baby boomer retirements, Alberta's "Alberta is Calling" program is a timely response.

Launched in April 2024, the program offers a one-time refundable tax credit of $5,000 to up to 2,000 eligible tradespeople who move to Alberta between May 1 and December 31, 2024.

To qualify, applicants must be Canadian citizens or permanent residents, aged 18 or older, and commit to residing in Alberta for at least 12 consecutive months.

High-Demand Trades in Alberta

Alberta's trade industry has long faced a significant labor shortage. The following occupations are currently in high demand:

• Construction Managers (NOC 70010)
• Automotive Service Technicians, Truck and Bus Mechanics, and Mechanical Repairers (NOC 72410)
• Plumbers (NOC 72300)
• Electrical and Electronics Engineers (NOC 21310)
• Civil Engineers (NOC 21300)
• Engineering Managers (NOC 20010)
• Automotive and Heavy Truck and Equipment Parts Installers and Servicers (NOC 74203)
• Electrical and Electronics Engineering Technologists and Technicians (NOC 22310)
• Electrical Mechanics (NOC 72422)

For more details on Alberta's trades industry, including apprenticeship services and certification processes, prospective immigrants can visit the province's dedicated trades website.

With 76,500 job vacancies as of May 2024, Alberta presents a promising opportunity for skilled workers looking to establish themselves in Canada’s trade sector.