Canadian Federal Skilled Trades Program
The Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) is a vital part of Canada’s Economic Class immigration, designed for skilled tradespeople who can contribute to the nation’s economy. Managed through the Express Entry system, the FSTP targets individuals with experience in key trades, such as construction, maintenance, and manufacturing. Applicants must have at least two years of full-time work experience in a skilled trade within the last five years and meet specific language proficiency requirements in English or French.
Additionally, candidates need either a valid job offer for at least one year or a certificate of qualification in their trade issued by a Canadian authority. Successful applicants receive permanent residency, enabling them to live and work anywhere in Canada. The FSTP is essential for addressing labor shortages in critical industries, fostering economic growth, and supporting Canada’s infrastructure development. By attracting skilled tradespeople from around the world, the FSTP ensures a robust and dynamic workforce, contributing to Canada’s long-term prosperity.
Eligibility Criteria for Federal
Skilled Trades Program
Work Experience: Have at least two years of full-time work experience (or an equivalent amount of part-time work experience) in a skilled trade within the five years before applying. The work experience must be in an eligible occupation listed in the National Occupational Classification (NOC) under Major Group 72, 73, 82, or 92.
Job Offer or Certificate of Qualification: Possess either a valid job offer of full-time employment in Canada for at least one year, or a certificate of qualification in the skilled trade issued by a Canadian provincial or territorial authority.
Language Proficiency: Applicants must demonstrate language proficiency by taking an approved language test and achieving a score of Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 5 for speaking and listening, and CLB 4 for reading and writing in English. Alternatively, for French proficiency, applicants must achieve Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens (NCLC) 5 for speaking and listening, and NCLC 4 for reading and writing.
Admissibility: Be admissible to Canada, which includes passing security, criminal, and medical checks.
Plan to Live Outside Quebec: Intend to live and work outside the province of Quebec. (The province of Quebec selects its own skilled workers.)
How to Apply?
Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for the FSTP, including having at least two years of full-time work experience in a skilled trade, a valid job offer or a certificate of qualification, language proficiency, and admissibility requirements.
Create an Express Entry Profile: Create an online profile on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website through the Express Entry system. Provide accurate information about your work experience, job offer or certificate of qualification, language ability, and other relevant details.
Receive a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) Score: Once your profile is complete, you will receive a CRS score based on the information provided. Your CRS score ranks you against other candidates in the Express Entry pool.
Improve Your CRS Score (if needed): Consider improving your CRS score by gaining additional work experience, improving language proficiency, obtaining a provincial nomination, or securing a valid job offer from a Canadian employer.
Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA): If you are among the highest-ranked candidates in the Express Entry pool during a regular draw, you will receive an ITA to apply for permanent residency under the FSTP.
Submit Application for Permanent Residency: Upon receiving an ITA, you have 60 days to submit a complete application for permanent residency, including all required documents such as proof of work experience, language test results, education credentials, police certificates, and medical exams.
Wait for Processing: IRCC will process your application, which typically takes about six months from the date of submission. They may request additional information documents or conduct interviews if necessary.
Receive Confirmation of Permanent Residency: If your application is approved, you and your family members (if applicable) will receive Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and can then move to Canada as permanent residents.