How to become a CNC Machinist

Since 22 July 2025, new Skilled Worker applicants generally need a job classed as ‘higher skilled’ (RQF level 6+). Jobs classed as ‘medium skilled’ are only eligible if they appear on the Immigration Salary List or Temporary Shortage List, so check the current eligible occupations list for this job’s occupation code. Some nationalities can use the Youth Mobility Scheme instead. Skilled trades in the UK are typically classed at RQF level 3.

Official sources: GOV.UK – Skilled Worker visa · GOV.UK – Skilled Worker eligible occupations · GOV.UK – Check if you need a UK visa

There is no dedicated visa for skilled trades. Options include employer-sponsored green cards (EB-3 skilled workers, which require labour certification) and the H-2B visa for temporary or seasonal non-agricultural work, which has an annual cap.

Official sources: USCIS – H-1B specialty occupations · USCIS – Employment-based green cards · USCIS – H-2B temporary non-agricultural workers

The Federal Skilled Trades Program (within Express Entry) targets qualified tradespeople, usually requiring a job offer or a provincial certificate of qualification. Red Seal endorsement allows mobility between provinces; many trades are compulsory-certification trades in some provinces.

Official sources: Canada.ca – Work in Canada · Canada.ca – Express Entry

Trades usually need a skills assessment from Trades Recognition Australia (TRA) and, for electrical, plumbing and some building work, a state or territory licence. Trades appear on skilled occupation lists for the 482 and permanent skilled visas; check the current list.

Official sources: Home Affairs – Skills in Demand visa (subclass 482) · Home Affairs – Skilled occupation list · Home Affairs – Skills assessment

Employers sponsor the work permit and residence visa through MOHRE; trade certificates may need attestation. Some trades (e.g. electrical work) may require local authority approval or competency cards depending on the emirate.

Official sources: u.ae – Jobs and work in the UAE · MOHRE – Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation · u.ae – Golden Visa

Non-EU nationals typically need a national work permit; several countries (e.g. Germany) offer routes for people with recognised vocational qualifications. Recognition of your trade qualification may be required, especially for electrical and gas work.

Official sources: EU Immigration Portal · EU Regulated Professions Database · Make it in Germany (example national portal)