The federal government says applications for its $5,000 Red Seal Completion Bonus will open November 16, 2026. The measure covers journeypersons who completed an apprenticeship and obtained certification in an eligible trade on or after April 1, 2025, subject to citizenship or immigration status and other program rules. The payment goes to qualifying tradespeople, not automatically to their employers.
For certifications dated April 1, 2025 to November 15, 2026, applications are due May 31, 2027. Certifications obtained later generally have a 12 month filing window. The program allows $5,000 per eligible Red Seal trade, up to $50,000 in total. Employers can direct eligible workers to the official application guidance before the portal opens.
Original Employment and Social Development Canada publication