Immigrate to Canada as a Hairstylist or Hairdresser (Step by step Guild)

The demand for hairstylists in Canada is on the rise, encouraging many foreigners to move here to work as fashion designers. Immigrating as a hairstylist not only helps fill the gaps in the Canadian job market but also offers numerous benefits. This article covers the basics you’ll need to know about moving to Canada as a hairstylist.

If you’re considering this career path, you should know that every job on the Canadian National Occupational Classification (NOC) list has a specific code. For hairstylists, the code is 6341.

What Does a Hairstylist or Hairdresser Do?

No matter your hair type or length, you’ve likely visited a hairstylist. Before they start cutting, they usually discuss what style you’re looking for.

Hairstylists and barbers cut and style hair and provide related services in places like salons, barbershops, vocational schools, health care facilities, and theatres. They clean their workstations, sterilize equipment, greet clients, schedule appointments, and handle payments. In performing arts, they work with make-up artists and costume designers to perfect actors’ looks and also apply chemical treatments to change hair’s appearance and texture.

Job Descriptions of a Hairstylist or Hairdresser

Planning to immigrate to Canada as a hairstylist? Here are some tasks you might handle:

• Suggesting hairstyles based on clients’ features or their preferences.
• Cutting, trimming, tapering, curling, waving, perming, and styling hair.
• Coloring hair with bleach, tints, dyes, or rinses.
• Analyzing hair and scalp conditions, offering treatments or beauty care advice.
• Cleaning and styling wigs and hairpieces.
• Applying hair extensions.
• Shampooing and rinsing customers’ hair.
• Performing receptionist duties and ordering supplies.
• Possibly training or supervising other hairstylists, apprentices, and helpers.

Barbers

• Cutting and trimming hair according to clients’ instructions.
• Shaving and trimming beards and mustaches.
• Shampooing hair and providing treatments like waving, straightening, tinting, and scalp massages.
• Booking appointments and ordering supplies.
• Possibly training and supervising other barbers and apprentices.

Job Titles Under NOC 6431

If you qualify under NOC code 6431, you could work under titles such as:

• Barber apprentice
• Beauty salon operator
• Hair color technician
• Hair dyer
• Hair-care specialist
• Hairdresser
• Hairdresser apprentice
• Hairstyling specialist
• Hairstylist
• Hairstylist apprentice
• Men’s hairdresser
• Wig stylist

Exclusions

Certain jobs don’t fall under NOC 6431, like:

• Estheticians, electrologists, and related occupations (See NOC 6562)
• Hairdressing teachers (See NOC 4021)

Requirements for Immigrating to Canada as a Hairstylist or Hairdresser

To smoothly immigrate as a hairstylist, you must meet specific requirements, both general and specific:

General Requirements:

• Language Proficiency: You must be proficient in English or French and provide test results (IELTS, TOEFL, CAEL, TEF, TCF).
• Age: You must be at least 18 years old.
• Education: You need at least a high school education or equivalent.
• Partner’s Ability: Your spouse or partner’s work experience, skills, language proficiency, and age can boost your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points.
• Adaptability: You must be able to adapt to Canada’s environment, weather, and working conditions.
• Work Experience: You need to prove your profession through previous work experiences.

Specific Requirements:

• Hairstylists:
• Some secondary school education.
• Completion of a two- or three-year hairstyling apprenticeship program or a college program in hairstyling combined with on-the-job training.
• Several years of experience can replace formal education and training.
• Trade certification for hairstylists is compulsory in some provinces and available but voluntary in others.
• Red Seal endorsement is available upon completing the interprovincial Red Seal examination.
• Barbers:
• Some secondary school education.
• Completion of a two-year apprenticeship or other barber program.
• On-the-job training may substitute for formal education.
• Trade certification for barbers is compulsory in some provinces and available but voluntary in others.
• Red Seal endorsement is available upon completing the interprovincial Red Seal examination.

Pathway Programs to Immigrate to Canada as a Hairstylist or Hairdresser

Here are some options to consider:

Express Entry Program:

1. Create an Express Entry profile.
2. Choose the right program: Canada Experience Class (CEC), Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), or Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP).

Provincial Nominee Program:

• Immigrate to a specific province and meet its qualifications.

In-Demand Occupation:

• Check the National Occupational Classification (NOC) list for available jobs.

Steps to Follow:

1. Open an Express Entry Profile: Visit IRCC’s official website and create a profile.
2. Choose a Program: Select a program that aligns with your occupation.
3. Get a Job Offer: Secure a job offer from a Canadian employer who has obtained a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
4. Get an Invitation to Apply: Qualify for a program under the Express Entry system.
5. Submit Your Application and Documents: Submit your application within 60 days of receiving the invitation.
6. Get Your Work Permit: Apply for a work permit upon arriving in Canada.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is the annual salary of a hairstylist or hairdresser in Canada?

• The average annual salary is $48,387.

Am I eligible to migrate to Canada as a hairstylist or hairdresser?

• Yes, if you meet the occupational and educational requirements.

Conclusion

Hairstylists play a crucial role in their clients’ lives. If you’re ready to take the next step and immigrate to Canada, follow these guidelines and start your journey today.