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Canada Immigration Process For Aerospace Engineers


Last Updated On : January 10 , 2025


Aerospace Engineers are in demand in Canada, as Canadian research centres rank well among international aerospace centres globally.

The Aerospace Industries Association of Canada is currently ranked 7th in the aerospace industry worldwide.

The Canadian government has included aerospace jobs in its list of sought-after occupations, creating new opportunities for foreign aerospace engineers to contribute to Canada's aerospace sector.

Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) recognizes the need to attract talented aerospace engineers worldwide to address increasing job vacancies. To this end, they offer immigration visa pathways for foreign aerospace engineers to apply for permanent residency, bolstering the aerospace workforce in Canada.

Are There Aerospace Engineering Jobs In Canada For Foreigners?

Recently, Immigration Minister Marc Miller visited the Manitoba Aerospace Center in Canada to discuss the growing demand for skilled immigrants who can effectively fill aerospace engineering positions. This is a part of the ongoing efforts to address the labour needs in the aerospace industry and to attract talented individuals who can contribute to the growth and development of this sector in Manitoba.

Manitoba Government Invests in Aerospace

Canada is rapidly expanding opportunities for aerospace engineers, as evidenced by the recent $17 million investment in Manitoba’s aerospace sector through Magellan Aerospace. This initiative underscores the country’s commitment to fostering innovation and creating highly skilled jobs, positioning Manitoba as a key aerospace hub. With projects like establishing advanced machining centres and new test environments for space product development, Canada offers a thriving environment for aerospace engineers.

Through pathways like the STEM Express Entry, international aerospace professionals can leverage these opportunities, contributing to groundbreaking projects while securing permanent residency in one of the world’s leading aerospace industries.

Can foreigners be eligible to work in Canada as aerospace engineers?

Yes, Science requires innovators from around the globe.

Sherif Azmy graduated from the American University in Cairo, Egypt, and then applied for a Canada Study Permit to complete his degree in mechanical engineering with a specialisation in aerospace.

After completing his degree, he was selected for a scholarship specifically for aerospace international students: the Dave Caddey Memorial Scholarship

Why is Canada the best place for Aerospace engineers?

Canada maintains a distinct advantage as one of the only countries in the world capable of manufacturing an aircraft from nose to tail and certifying it. Canada is popular for aircraft maintenance engineers as well. You would need some licence to work in Canada as an AME engineer.

What is the latest announcement for aerospace research in Canada?

On 19 October 2024, Rachel Bendayan, a Member of Parliament in Canada, announced $19.3 million in funding for digital research infrastructure in Quebec through the Digital Research Alliance of Canada, which will support aerospace research and studies in Canada.

Step-by-step Guide for Aerospace Engineer

If you're an aerospace engineer considering immigrating to Canada, there are multiple avenues you can explore to make your move. Let's break down the steps:

1. Research Aerospace Industry in Canada

In the realm of Canadian manufacturing, the aerospace industry emerges as the foremost stakeholder in research and development (R&D), significantly outpacing other sectors. In 2021 alone, investments in R&D within the aerospace industry soared to $710 million, marking a staggering threefold increase compared to the national manufacturing average.

 This prominence underscores the vital role of the aerospace sector in driving innovation and technological advancement within Canada. For those considering immigration programs, understanding the National Occupational Classification (NOC) and relevant NOC codes within the aerospace industry is essential for navigating opportunities in this dynamic field.

2. Language Test Requirements:

To immigrate to Canada, you need to prove your language proficiency by taking an approved test:

1. English Language Tests:

   - CELPIP-General

   - IELTS General Training

   - PTE Core

2. French Language Tests:

   - TEF Canada

   - TCF Canada

Ensure your test results are valid (less than 2 years old) when:

- Completing your Express Entry profile.

- Applying for permanent residence.

Keep your language test results valid during the 12-month validity of your Express Entry profile. Canada uses Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) for English and Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadien (NCLC) for French to assess reading, writing, listening, and speaking abilities. Minimum levels and points awarded depend on the specific immigration program.

  3. ECA Evaluation Report

The engineering community relies on standardised methods for Engineering Critical Assessment (ECA), which are routinely employed by key industries like oil and gas, nuclear, aerospace, petrochemical, and power sectors to ensure structural safety. 

Our extensive expertise and cutting-edge facilities, including advanced Non-Destructive Testing (NDT), fatigue, and fracture testing capabilities, enable us to gather comprehensive data for ECAs. Explore our educational qualifications and aerospace engineering programs to enhance your understanding of ECA through WES.

4. Enter To Express Entry Pool

To enter the Express Entry pool for Canada immigration, follow these steps:

I. Create Express Entry Profile: 

Begin by creating your Express Entry profile on the official Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website. Provide accurate information regarding your education, work experience, language proficiency (IELTS or CLB score), and other relevant details.

II. Check Eligibility: 

Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for one of the three federal immigration programs managed through Express Entry: Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), or Canadian Experience Class (CEC).

III. Calculate CRS Score: 

Use the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) to calculate your CRS score based on factors such as age, education, work experience, language proficiency (English or French), and addition to other factors such as a provincial nomination or a valid job offer, strive for a high CRS score to maximize your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for Canada PR.

IV. Enter the Immigration Pool: 

Once your Express Entry profile is complete and you meet the eligibility criteria, you will enter the Express Entry pool of candidates. Your profile will be ranked against other candidates based on your CRS score.

V. Receive Invitation to Apply (ITA): 

Candidates with high CRS scores may receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for Canada PR during regular draws conducted by IRCC. Keep track of Express Entry draws and monitor CRS score requirements to gauge your chances of receiving an ITA.

VI. Submit Application for Canada PR: 

Upon receiving an ITA, you will have a limited time to submit a complete application for Canada PR. Ensure all required documents, including police certificates, medical exams, and proof of funds, are prepared and submitted accurately.

VII. Await PR Confirmation: 

After submitting your application, await confirmation of your Canada PR status. Once approved, you can prepare for your move to Canada and begin your journey as a permanent resident.

5. Receive ITA with Express Entry Draw

Receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) through an Express Entry draw typically favours candidates with top-ranking profiles, significantly enhancing their prospects for Canada Permanent Residency. Achieving a high Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score is pivotal in securing an ITA, highlighting the importance of crafting a competitive profile to increase your chances of success in the immigration process.

6. Prepare Essential Documents

Aspiring aerospace engineers eyeing immigration to Canada should prepare the following:

  1. Educational Documents: Collect aerospace engineering degrees, ensuring validity and recognition in Canada. Consider an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) for equivalence confirmation.
  2. Language Proficiency Test Results: Obtain valid IELTS or CELPIP (English) or TEF (French) scores showcasing language proficiency.
  3. Work Experience Letters: Secure letters from prevoius employers outlining aerospace engineering roles, responsibilities, and tenure.
  4. Aeronautical Engineer Licence Application: Apply for licensure in intended Canadian province or territory, becoming a certified Professional Engineer (P.Eng) upon approval.

7. Application Review and Visa Issuance

Upon submission, your application undergoes thorough review by immigration authorities, specifically IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada). Once approved, you'll receive your Permanent Resident Visa, granting you entry into Canada. For those aspiring to work with the Canadian Space Agency, this visa is a crucial step towards pursuing opportunities in the aerospace sector. Rest assured, IRCC ensures a meticulous process to facilitate smooth visa issuance.

Work as a Aerospace Engineer in Canada

Aspiring to work as an aerospace engineer in Canada offers thrilling opportunities within the aerospace industry. Positions in aircraft design, maintenance, and research are abundant nationwide. Indeed.com Canada and Job Bank feature numerous job listings, providing a diverse array of roles. Qualifications typically include a degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or related fields. 

Salaries vary by experience and specialisation, with senior roles in Mississauga (Lake Ontario) and Mirabel (suburb of Montreal) offering competitive remuneration. Job seekers can explore platforms like Indeed and Job Bank, tailoring their applications to highlight their skills and passion for aerospace engineering.

Aerospace Engineer Jobs

  1. Job Availability: Currently, 12 aerospace engineer positions are open in Canada under NOC 21390.
  2. Salary Insights: The average annual salary for Aerospace Engineers in Canada is approximately C$79,193 in 2024, with variations ranging from CA$61,000 to CA$111,000.
  3. Regional Wage Variations: In regions like British Columbia and Ontario, wages range from CA$23.38 to CA$63.63 per hour. For other areas, national-level wage data is available due to data limitations.
  4. Green Job: Aerospace engineering is classified as a green job, contributing to positive environmental outcomes.
  5. Experience and Education: A bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering or related field is typically required, along with relevant experience, internships, and specialised skills for career advancement.

Aircraft Design Engineer

The NOC code for Aircraft Design Engineer is 21461. The average annual salary in Canada is approximately C$70,000. Average salary varies by experience level: Entry-level earns around C$64,400, required experience (2-5 years) about C$84,200, and late career (10-19 years) about C$88,540. Responsibilities include aircraft maintenance, repairs, safety checks, and design tasks.

Aerospace Engineering Programs in Canadian Universities

Explore aerospace engineering programs in Canadian universities, offering opportunities for international students, enhancing aerospace skills, and qualifying for Canada study visas.

University of Toronto

Programs:  Bachelor of engineering – Aerospace Engineering (Optional Co-op)

Education Fee: $38,584 CAD/ Year

Course Duration: 48- 56 months:

École Polytechnique de Montréal

Programs: MEng in Aerospace Engineering

Education Fee: CA$18,720/ Year

Course Duration: 24 months

Conclusion

In conclusion, Canada offers promising prospects for aerospace engineers, with abundant job opportunities and competitive salaries. Provinces like Ontario, Quebec, and British Columbia host top-notch aerospace engineering programs. Foreign nationals can work in Canada as aerospace engineers with the required qualifications and permits, earning between C$70,000 to C$100,000 annually, depending on experience and location.

F.A.Q.

Provinces like Ontario, Quebec, and British Columbia offer excellent aerospace engineering programs in Canada.
Yes, foreign nationals can work as aerospace engineers in Canada with the necessary qualifications and work permits.
Salaries for aerospace engineers in Canada vary based on factors like experience, location, and specialisation. On average, they earn between C$70,000 to C$100,000 annually, depending on these variables.
To work as an aerospace engineer in Canada, obtain a bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering or related fields. Secure Professional Engineer (P.Eng.) licensing from provincial bodies like APEGA in Alberta or Engineers Ontario.
Provinces with promising job prospects include British Columbia, Quebec, Ontario, and Alberta, notably aerospace hubs like Montreal, Quebec, and Winnipeg, Manitoba.
Investigate PNPs in provinces where your skills are in high demand. Each province maintains its own eligibility criteria and selection process. Notable PNP programs for aerospace engineering include:
  • British Columbia Skilled Worker Stream
  • Manitoba Skilled Worker Overseas Stream
  • New Brunswick Skilled Workers Stream
Securing a job offer significantly bolsters your chances of successful immigration. Network with Canadian employers in the aerospace industry to secure a position.