The Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) is one of the three immigration paths offered through Canada’s Express Entry system. It is intended for foreign skilled workers with practical experience in a trade who want to gain permanent residency in Canada. This program helps Canada address labor shortages in sectors that rely on skilled professionals.
Purpose of the Program
Canada has a constant need for qualified tradespeople in construction, manufacturing, industrial, and service sectors. The FSTP offers a way for these professionals to contribute to Canada’s economy while enjoying the benefits of permanent residency, including the right to live, work, and study anywhere in the country.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the Federal Skilled Trades Program, applicants must meet the following conditions:
1. Work Experience
- You need at least two years of full-time work experience or an equivalent amount of part-time work in a skilled trade within the five years leading up to your application. The experience must be in an eligible trade as defined by the National Occupational Classification (NOC) system.
2. Language Proficiency
You need to meet the minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) levels:
- CLB 5 for speaking and listening.
- CLB 4 for reading and writing.
- You can take approved language tests in English or French, such as IELTS, CELPIP, or TEF Canada.
3. Job Offer or Trade Certification
You must have one of the following:
- A valid job offer for full-time employment from up to two Canadian employers for at least one year, or
- A certificate of qualification in your skilled trade issued by a Canadian provincial, territorial, or federal authority.
This ensures that you meet Canadian standards for the trade you want to practice.
4. Education
- There is no formal education requirement for the FSTP. However, if you have completed your education in or outside Canada, you can claim extra points under the Express Entry Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS).
5. Admissibility
- You must be admissible to Canada, meaning you have no criminal history or medical issues that could make you ineligible to enter the country.
Eligible Skilled Trades (NOC Categories)
The following are the main groups of trades eligible under the FSTP:
- Major Group 72: Industrial, electrical, and construction trades
- Major Group 73: Maintenance and equipment operation trades
- Major Group 82: Supervisors and technical jobs in natural resources, agriculture, and related production
- Major Group 92: Processing, manufacturing, and utilities supervisors and central control operators
- Minor Group 632: Chefs and cooks Minor Group 633: Butchers and bakers
Selection Process
The Federal Skilled Trades Program works through the Express Entry system, which uses a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) to assess applicants. Points are awarded for:
- Age
- Education
- Work experience
- Language proficiency
- Job offer or certification
- Adaptability factors
Candidates with the highest CRS scores receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Advantages of the FSTP
- Lower language requirements compared to other Express Entry programs.
- Ideal for people with hands-on trade experience instead of academic backgrounds.
- Faster processing through the Express Entry system.
- Pathway to bring family members to Canada as dependents.
- Freedom to live and work anywhere in Canada after approval.
Final Thought
The Federal Skilled Trades Program is a great opportunity for experienced tradespeople to secure permanent residence in Canada. This program prioritizes practical skills and values real-world experience over formal education. Whether you’re a chef, welder, or electrician, Canada welcomes your expertise to create a stronger and more skilled workforce.