Immigration routes for welders

Welding qualifications are codified by AWS in the US, CSA in Canada, DIN/EN-ISO in Germany, and AS/NZS in Australia. Routes include Canada NOC 72106 with Red Seal, Australia subclass 494 regional sponsored (TRA assessment), UK Skilled Worker SOC 5215, Germany skilled-worker via IHK certification recognition. High-pressure welders in oil, gas, and nuclear command above-floor sponsor packages.

Also searched as: pipe welder, structural welder, fabricator, MIG welder.

What decides which route fits

Skilled trades usually require a formal skills assessment or trade recognition alongside the visa, so factor that step into your timeline wherever you apply.

By destination

Frequently asked questions

Do welders need a job offer to work abroad?+

It depends on the route. Many countries offer skilled-migration or self-employment routes that do not require a job offer up front, while employer-sponsored work visas do. The country guides below flag which of each destination's routes need a sponsor.

Which countries have visa routes for welders?+

We map welder routes across all 178 full-coverage destinations we cover, and 11 currently have at least one route that fits welders directly. Open any country below for its specific routes and official sources.

Do welders need to requalify to work in another country?+

Often there is a recognition or skills-assessment step in addition to the visa, and it varies by country. Check the destination guide below for the specifics where it applies.