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Why Plumbers and Electricians Are in High Demand
Skilled trades are in shortage worldwide.
In Canada and Australia, plumbers and electricians are among the top jobs listed for migration programs.
For Nigerians, this creates a big chance to move abroad, secure legal work, and earn salaries far higher than at home.
Average Salary for Plumbers and Electricians Abroad
- Plumber in Canada: CAD $55,000 – $85,000 per year
- Electrician in Canada: CAD $60,000 – $90,000 per year
- Plumber in Australia: AUD $60,000 – $90,000 per year
- Electrician in Australia: AUD $65,000 – $100,000 per year
These figures make plumbing and electrical work some of the best-paying skilled trades for Nigerians abroad.
Work Opportunities in Canada
Plumbers in Canada
- Classified under NOC Code 72300
- Eligible for Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Programs
- Can apply for work permits if sponsored by an employer
Electricians in Canada
- Classified under NOC Code 72200 (Industrial Electricians) and 72201 (Construction Electricians)
- High demand in provinces like Ontario, Alberta, and Saskatchewan
- Eligible for Skilled Trades Program under Express Entry
Work Opportunities in Australia
Plumbers in Australia
- Listed on Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL)
- Eligible for visas like Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent) and Subclass 190 (State Nominated)
- Employer sponsorship possible through Subclass 482 (Temporary Skill Shortage Visa)
Electricians in Australia
- Also on the Skilled Occupation List
- Can migrate under General Skilled Migration (GSM)
- Strong demand in mining areas, construction, and urban development
Requirements for Nigerians (Plumbers & Electricians)
To qualify for migration to Canada or Australia, Nigerians usually need:
- Trade certificates or vocational training in plumbing/electrical work
- Work experience (at least 2–5 years)
- English test results (IELTS or TOEFL)
- Credential assessment (Canada: ECA; Australia: TRA Skills Assessment)
- Police clearance and medical checks
How Nigerians Can Apply
Step 1: Check Skilled Worker Lists
Confirm that your job (plumber or electrician) is still on the occupation lists for Canada or Australia.
Step 2: Prepare Documents
- Passport
- Education/trade certificates
- Work experience proof
- IELTS/TOEFL results
Step 3: Apply for Jobs
Trusted websites include:
- Canada: JobBank.ca, Indeed Canada, Workopolis
- Australia: Seek.com.au, Jobactive.gov.au
Step 4: Apply for Visa Sponsorship
- If you get a job offer, apply for a work visa with employer sponsorship
- Or use programs like Express Entry (Canada) and General Skilled Migration (Australia)
Benefits of Working Abroad as a Nigerian Plumber or Electrician
- Higher salaries compared to Nigeria
- Chance to apply for permanent residency after a few years
- Access to free healthcare and social benefits
- Opportunities to bring your family abroad
Final Thoughts
For Nigerians skilled in plumbing or electrical work, Canada and Australia are excellent destinations.
Both countries are actively searching for workers in these trades, and they offer clear visa pathways with sponsorship.
👉 Tip for Nigerians: Improve your English test score, upgrade your trade certificate, and actively apply to job boards. The demand is real — skilled plumbers and electricians are wanted in 2025 and beyond.