Express Entry
Federal Skilled Trades Program Guide: Immigrate to Canada Successfully

The Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) is a vital part of Canada’s Express Entry system, designed to facilitate the immigration of skilled tradespeople to Canada. This guide provides comprehensive information on the eligibility criteria, the application process, and essential tips for successfully navigating the FSTP.
What is the Federal Skilled Trades Program?
The FSTP is tailored for skilled tradespeople who have the qualifications and experience necessary to contribute to Canada’s economy. It offers a streamlined pathway to permanent residency for those who meet specific requirements.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Federal Skilled Trades Program, applicants must fulfill several criteria:
1. Work Experience
Minimum Requirement: 2 years of full-time work experience (or an equivalent amount in part-time work) in a skilled trade within the last five years.
Job Classification: The work experience must fall under one of the eligible skilled trade occupations in the National Occupational Classification (NOC) TEER Categories: TEER 0, TEER 1, TEER 2, and TEER 3
2. Language Proficiency
English or French: Achieve a minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) in all 4 abilities.
Test Results: Tests are valid for 2 years and approved by IELTS, CELPIP, or TEF.
3. Job Offer or Certification
- Job Offer: A valid full-time job offer for a total period of at least one year from up to two employers in Canada.
- Certification: A certificate of qualification is required by a Canadian provincial, territorial, or federal authority.
4. Proof of Funds
Settlement Funds: Sufficient funds to support yourself and family members unless you are currently able to legally work in Canada or have a valid job offer.
5. Admissibility
Health and Security: Pass health, criminal, and security checks to be admissible to Canada.
Application Process
The application process for the Federal Skilled Trades Program involves several key steps:
- Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility: Determine if you meet the eligibility criteria for the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP). You can use an online assessment tool to check your qualifications.
- Step 2: Verify Your Education: If you’ve completed education or training abroad, you’ll need an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) to evaluate its Canadian equivalent.
- Step 3: Build Your Express Entry Profile: Once you have your ECA and language test results, create an Express Entry profile. This profile outlines your skills and experience and introduces you into a pool of candidates.
- Step 4: Await Your Invitation: Regularly check your Express Entry profile for an Invitation to Apply (ITA). ITAs are issued to candidates with the highest Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores in each draw.
- Step 5: Submit Your Application: If you receive an ITA, you have 60 days to submit a complete application for permanent residence.
- Step 6: Medical Exam and Background Check: As part of the application process, you’ll need to undergo a medical exam and a police certificate check.
- Step 7: Processing Your Application: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will process your application. This may involve additional document requests.
- Step 8: Confirmation and Arrival: Upon approval, you’ll receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (CoPR). With your CoPR, you can move to Canada as a permanent resident and start your new life as a skilled trades worker.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Ensure all documents are accurate, complete, and up-to-date.
- Consider ways to improve your CRS score, such as gaining additional work experience or enhancing language test results.
- Keep abreast of changes in the Express Entry system and FSTP requirements.
Common Questions About the Federal Skilled Trades Program
Q1. How can I improve my CRS score?
Improving your CRS score can be achieved through various means, such as gaining more skilled work experience, improving language proficiency, or obtaining a Canadian educational credential.
Q2. Can I include my family in my application?
Yes, you can include your spouse or common-law partner and dependent children in your application for permanent residency.
Q4. What if my work experience is in a different NOC category?
Only work experience in eligible skilled trade occupations in the NOC system is eligible for the FSTP. If your work experience is in a different category, you may need to explore other immigration pathways.