What is the Federal Skilled Trades Program?

The Federal Skilled Trades Program (FST) is one of Canada’s Express Entry immigration pathways designed for skilled workers who want to become permanent residents of Canada. This program specifically caters to individuals with expertise in skilled trades that are in demand across the country.

If you have hands-on experience in a recognized skilled trade and wish to build a future in Canada, the FST program could be the ideal pathway for you.

Benefits of the FST Program

• Permanent Residency: Successful applicants can enjoy the benefits of Canadian permanent residency, including access to healthcare, education, and social services.

• Fast Processing Times: Through Express Entry, FST applications are typically processed within 6 months.

• In-Demand Skills: Skilled trade professionals are highly sought after in Canada, increasing your chances of employment and career growth.

• Pathway to Citizenship: As a permanent resident, you can eventually apply for Canadian citizenship.

•  

Eligibility Criteria for the FST Program

To qualify for the Federal Skilled Trades Program, you must meet the following requirements:

1. Work Experience:

   • At least 2 years of full-time work experience (or an equivalent amount of part-time work) in a skilled trade within the last 5 years.

   • Your work experience must fall under National Occupational Classification (NOC) TEER categories 2 or 3.

2. Job Offer or Certification:

   • A valid job offer of full-time employment in Canada for at least 1 year, OR

   • A certificate of qualification in your trade issued by a Canadian provincial, territorial, or federal authority.

3. Language Proficiency:

   • Achieve a minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level of 5 in speaking and listening, and CLB 4 in reading and writing. Test results must be from an approved language test like IELTS or CELPIP.

4. Residency Intent:

   • Plan to live outside the province of Quebec (Quebec has its own immigration programs).

5. Other Requirements:

   • Meet the admissibility requirements, including good health, clean criminal record, and sufficient settlement funds (if applicable).

How to Apply for the FST Program

1. Check Your Eligibility: Ensure you meet all the program’s requirements.

2. Create an Express Entry Profile: Submit your details, including language test results, work experience, and education, into the Express Entry pool.

3. Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA): If your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score meets the cut-off, you’ll receive an ITA.

4. Submit Your Application: Provide all required documents, including proof of work experience, job offer or certification, language test results, and more.

5. Wait for a Decision: Once submitted, most applications are processed within 6 months.

Recognized Skilled Trades

Eligible trades for the FST program fall under the following major groups:

• Industrial, Electrical, and Construction Trades

• Maintenance and Equipment Operation Trades

• Supervisors and Technical Jobs in Natural Resources, Agriculture, and Related Production

• Processing, Manufacturing, and Utilities Supervisors and Central Control Operators

• Chefs and Cooks

• Butchers and Bakers

Check the NOC list for more details on eligible trades.

 

Why Choose Canada Through the FST Program?

Canada offers an excellent quality of life, a stable economy, and a multicultural society. Skilled tradespeople play a vital role in Canada’s development and are highly valued in industries like construction, manufacturing, and natural resources. By choosing the FST program, you’ll have the opportunity to:

• Contribute to Canada’s growing economy.

• Access a wide range of job opportunities.

• Enjoy a high standard of living for you and your family.

• 
  

 

Get Started Today

Take the first step toward building your future in Canada through the Federal Skilled Trades Program. Contact us for a free assessment, or apply now to see if you’re eligible.