The Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) is one of Canada’s key immigration pathways for skilled workers in the trades. It is part of the Express Entry system and is designed to attract individuals with expertise in specific trades that are in demand across the country. This blog will guide you through the FSTP, including eligibility requirements, the application process, and tips for success.

What is the Federal Skilled Trades Program?

The FSTP is an immigration program that allows skilled tradespeople to become permanent residents of Canada. It is aimed at individuals who have experience in a skilled trade, such as electricians, plumbers, welders, and chefs, among others.

Eligibility Requirements

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

• Work Experience: 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 before applying.
• Job Offer or Certification: Either a valid job offer from a Canadian employer for at least one year of full-time work or a certificate of qualification in that skilled trade issued by a Canadian provincial, territorial, or federal authority.
• Language Proficiency: A minimum score of Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 5 in speaking and listening, and CLB 4 in reading and writing.
• Education: While there is no formal education requirement, having higher education can improve your CRS score if you apply through the Express Entry system.
• Admissibility: You must be admissible to Canada, meaning you must not have any criminal record or medical conditions that would make you inadmissible.

Skilled Trades Categories

The FSTP covers trades in the following major groups, according to Canada’s National Occupational Classification (NOC):

1. Major Group 72: Industrial, electrical, and construction trades.
2. Major Group 73: Maintenance and equipment operation trades.
3. Major Group 82: Supervisors and technical jobs in natural resources, agriculture, and related production.
4. Major Group 92: Processing, manufacturing, and utilities supervisors and central control operators.
5. Major Group 632: Chefs and cooks.
6. Major Group 633: Butchers and bakers.

The Application Process

The FSTP operates under the Express Entry system, so the application process includes:

1. Create an Express Entry Profile: Submit your profile online through the Express Entry system, providing information about your work experience, education, and language skills.
2. Obtain a Job Offer or Certification: If you do not already have a job offer, you may need to obtain a certificate of qualification in your trade.
3. Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA): If your profile ranks highly in the Express Entry pool, you will receive an ITA for permanent residency.
4. Submit a Complete Application: After receiving an ITA, you have 60 days to submit a full application for permanent residency, including all required documents.

Tips for Success

• Improve Your Language Skills: Higher language test scores can boost your CRS score.
• Seek a Job Offer: Securing a job offer from a Canadian employer can significantly improve your chances.
• Get Certified: If applicable, obtaining a certification in your trade from a Canadian authority can enhance your profile.