It is now easier and more affordable to work in the skilled trades.
The province says effective immediately, journeypersons will no longer need to renew certification after five years in most trades like plumber, construction electrician and boilermaker.
This is to save time, money and paperwork.
The renewal cost is $73.53 every five years, with nearly 12,000 processed between 2019 and 2024.
In addition to that, experienced professionals in more than 70 occupations will pay less to take the certification exam.
The cost has been reduced from $350 to $644.15, bringing Nova Scotia more in line with other provinces and making it easier for experienced workers and newcomers to become certified.
“Eliminating renewals and lowering fees removes unnecessary red tape for trades professionals,” said Nolan Young, Minister of Labour, Skills and Immigration. “These common-sense changes save time and money, while helping more people gain certification and grow our skilled trades workforce.”
Another recent step to streamline the system was on July 2, when Nova Scotia started automatically recognizing provincial certifications from Alberta and Quebec for professionals in Red Seal skilled trades.
It means tradespeople in those provinces can work here without any additional applications, approvals or Red Seal endorsement.
