Can a Canadian Plumber Work in the US? Here’s What You Need to Know

Thinking about taking your plumbing skills south of the border? You’re not alone. Many skilled Canadian tradespeople wonder, “Can a Canadian plumber work in the US?” The short answer is yes—but it’s not as simple as packing your wrench and crossing the border. From work visas to state-specific licensing, there are key steps you must follow to work legally and successfully in the United States. This guide breaks it all down clearly, so you can plan your move with confidence.

What Visa Options Allow Canadian Plumbers to Work in the US?

Unlike many foreign nationals, Canadians enjoy special access under the USMCA (formerly NAFTA), which includes the TN visa—a fast-track option for certain professionals. However, plumbers are not listed as eligible TN occupations.

💡 Key Fact: The U.S. Department of State explicitly states that plumbers do not qualify for TN status because the role is classified as a skilled trade, not a professional occupation requiring a bachelor’s degree or higher.

So what are your real options?

Common Visa Pathways for Canadian Plumbers:

1. H-2B Visa – For temporary, non-agricultural workers. Requires a U.S. employer to prove a shortage of local workers.
   • Valid for up to 3 years (with extensions).
   • Annual cap: 66,000 visas (split between two fiscal periods).
   • Employer must pay prevailing wage and cover recruitment costs.
2. EB-3 Green Card – For skilled workers (including plumbers with 2+ years of experience).
   • Permanent residency path, but processing can take 2–5+ years.
   • Requires labor certification (PERM) and a U.S. employer sponsor.
3. L-1 Visa – Only if you’ve worked for a Canadian company with a U.S. branch for at least 1 year. Rare for individual tradespeople.

📌 Pro Tip: Most Canadian plumbers enter the U.S. via the H-2B visa, especially in high-demand regions like Florida, Texas, or Arizona during construction booms.

Do You Need a U.S. Plumbing License?

Yes—absolutely. Even if you’re licensed in Canada, each U.S. state has its own plumbing licensing board, and most require:

• Proof of work experience (typically 2–5 years)
• Passing a trade exam (often based on the International Plumbing Code)
• Background check and fees ($100–$500+)

State-by-State Variability

⚠️ Warning: Working without a license in most states is illegal and can result in fines, deportation, or being barred from future U.S. entry.

For more on U.S. occupational licensing, see the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics overview .

Step-by-Step: How to Legally Work as a Plumber in the U.S.

Follow this roadmap to avoid costly mistakes:

Step 1: Secure a U.S. Employer Sponsor

You cannot self-petition for an H-2B visa. Find a U.S. plumbing company willing to sponsor you. Networking through trade associations or job boards like Indeed or Tradesmen International helps.

Step 2: Employer Files Labor Certification (PERM for EB-3 / DOL Application for H-2B)

• For H-2B: Employer submits ETA Form 9142B to the Department of Labor.
• Processing time: 45–75 days.

Step 3: USCIS Petition Approval

Employer files Form I-129 (H-2B) or I-140 (EB-3).

• H-2B approval: ~2–4 months (premium processing available for $2,805).
• EB-3: Much longer due to visa backlogs.

Step 4: Apply for Visa at U.S. Port of Entry (for Canadians)

Unlike other nationals, Canadians apply directly at the border—no embassy interview needed. Bring:

• Approval notice (I-797)
• Job offer letter
• Canadian plumbing license & work history
• Proof of intent to return to Canada (for non-immigrant visas)

Step 5: Obtain State Plumbing License

Apply to the state’s licensing board after arrival. Some states allow you to work under supervision while studying for the exam.

Pros and Cons of Working as a Canadian Plumber in the U.S.

📊 Stat: The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 5% job growth for plumbers through 2032—faster than average—driven by infrastructure upgrades and new construction.

Real-Life Example: Marco’s Journey from Toronto to Tampa

Marco, a journeyman plumber from Toronto, wanted higher pay and year-round work. After connecting with a Florida contractor through a trade expo, his employer sponsored an H-2B visa.

• Timeline:
  • Month 1–2: Employer filed DOL application
  • Month 3: USCIS approved I-129
  • Month 4: Marco crossed at Detroit–Windsor border with documents
  • Month 5: Enrolled in Florida plumbing prep course
  • Month 7: Passed state exam, got license

Today, Marco earns $32/hour (vs. $28 CAD in Toronto) and plans to apply for a green card in 2 years.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I work in the U.S. as a plumber on a tourist visa?

No. Working on a B-1/B-2 (tourist) visa is illegal. Even unpaid “trial work” violates U.S. immigration law and can lead to a 3–10 year entry ban.

Q2: Does my Canadian Red Seal certification help in the U.S.?

It demonstrates skill but is not recognized as a U.S. license. However, some states (like Michigan) may count your Red Seal experience toward their required hours.

Q3: How long does the H-2B process take?

Typically 3–5 months from employer application to border entry. Start early—many employers file the moment the H-2B cap opens (April 1 and October 1).

Q4: Can I bring my family if I get an H-2B visa?

Yes. Spouses and children can apply for H-4 status, but they cannot work unless you later qualify for another visa type.

Q5: Are there states easier for foreign plumbers to get licensed?

Texas and Florida are known for streamlined processes and high demand. Avoid states like Illinois or New Jersey, which have stricter experience audits.

Q6: What if I want to start my own plumbing business in the U.S.?

You’ll need permanent residency (green card) or an E-2 investor visa (Canada is a treaty country). H-2B and TN visas do not allow self-employment.

Conclusion

So, can a Canadian plumber work in the US? Yes—but success depends on planning, patience, and paperwork. While the TN visa isn’t an option, pathways like the H-2B or EB-3 green card make it possible to build a thriving career across the border. With U.S. plumbing demand rising and wages competitive, the effort can pay off handsomely.

If this guide helped you, share it with a fellow tradesperson on LinkedIn or Facebook! Got questions? Drop them in the comments—we’re here to help skilled workers like you succeed.

Remember: Always consult an immigration attorney before applying. Rules change, and your future is worth the investment.