Immigrate to Canada using the Federal Skilled Trades Program

 

The Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) is an economic immigration route under the Express Entry system.

It was created to address the shortage of skilled workers in Canada as baby boomers reach retirement age. Combined with Canada's low birth rate, it means Canada doesn't have enough skilled workers to fill the gap, and immigration is critical to maintaining a skilled workforce in the future.

What is Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)?

The FSTP is a specific pathway for skilled workers to obtain Canadian permanent resident status. Entry requirements differ from other Express Entry programs as they are specific to a single National Occupational Classification (NOC), skill level (Skill Level B). There are also different educational and language requirements.

To be eligible for the FSTP, candidates must meet the following criteria:

·        At least two years of skilled trades work experience in the last five years prior to application.

·        On your English or French proficiency test, a minimum score of 5 in speaking and listening, and a score of 4 in reading and writing in the Canadian language.

·        Proof of funds (if applicable)

Skilled worked experience

To be eligible for the FSTP, candidates must have at least two years of full-time paid work experience or equivalent part-time work experience in the five years prior to applying to one of the NOC job categories below. All of these major groups fall under NOC Skill Type B:

Language Requirements

FSTP candidates must demonstrate a minimum level of English or French. Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) must have a score of 5 in speaking and listening, and a CLB of 4 in reading and writing.

Proof of funds

Applicants must be able to demonstrate that they have sufficient funds to support themselves and their Canadian dependent families. The amount increases with the number of people supported. Proof of funds is from the bank or financial institution where you deposited your funds and shows your average account balance for the past six months and any outstanding debts. This is not required if you already work in Canada or have a valid job offer with a Canadian employer.

Get assessed by a province or territory

Crafts in Canada are regulated by provincial and territorial governments. FSTP candidates may need some experience and training from Canadian employers. The process may be different for each province and territory. Visit the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website for more information.

Education

There are no fixed educational requirements for FSTP candidates. By earning an Education Credential Assessment (ECA) or demonstrating that they have completed secondary or tertiary education in Canada, FSTP candidates can improve their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores and improve their chances of obtaining permanent residency through Express.

Last Steps

Once candidates self-assess that they are eligible for the FSTP, they can go online and create an Express Entry profile on the IRCC website. After submitting your profile, IRCC will provide you with a CRS score. The score is based on criteria such as age, work experience, language skills and education, and other human capital factors.

The score you receive will be compared to other candidates in the Express Entry pool.

Those with the highest scores will receive an invitation to apply for permanent residence (ITA). After you receive your ITA, you have 60 days to submit your application. IRCC will then review your documents and make a final decision on your application.