How the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTC) Works?

Your Quick 30-Second Answer! 

The Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) offers a pathway to Canadian permanent residence for skilled trade workers. Eligibility includes having two years of work experience in certain skilled trades, a valid job offer or a certificate of qualification from a Canadian authority, and meeting language proficiency requirements in English or French as per the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB). Applicants must also demonstrate sufficient funds to support themselves and their family and be admissible to Canada. While there's no specific education requirement, possessing an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) can enhance the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. The application process is conducted through the Express Entry system, and if eligible, candidates receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) based on their CRS score. The FSTP is recognized for its lower CRS score requirement compared to other Express Entry programs​​​​​​​​​​​​​​.

For an in-depth overview, please see the "Table of Contents" below.

Learn the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTC): Process & Benefits!

Welcome to this easy-to-follow guide on The Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTC). This guide is your secret weapon to Canadian permanent residence. Primarily, this guide is for anyone who wants to learn about immigration to Canada. If you find the official rules and documents about the requirements to move to Canada confusing, this guide can be your helpful friend.

TABLE OF CONTENT

Basic Overview
  1. Why use this Guide?
  2. Overview: A Quick Look
  3. What is this Program?
  4. How does Program Operate?
Eligibility and Requirements
  5. Who's the Ideal Candidate?
  6. Eligibility criteria?
  7. Steps to apply for program
  8. Essential Documents Needed
Application Process
  9. The Application Process
  10. Timeframes & Costs
Tips and Best Practices
  11. Do's and Don'ts
  12. Application Insights
FAQs and Additional Resources
  13. Case Study: Fictional
  14. Frequently Asked Questions
  15. Helpful Resources

1. Who should use this Guide?

Whether driven by economic opportunities, familial ties, or the pursuit of safety, Canada offers a range of avenues including provincial nomination programs. Plus, it's packed with insider secrets to help you shine brighter than the rest when you apply! Understanding the pathway to permanent residence is important for those seeking a long-term future in the country. This guide is here to make everything clearer and simpler for you.

2. Overview: A Quick Look

This is a quick overview of this program. If you need more details, Go to the "Table of Contents" at the top of this page.

The Federal Skilled Trades Program: Pathway to Canadian Permanent Residency

1. What is It?

This is a program designed for skilled tradespersons with experience in certain key groups of TEER 2 or TEER 3. Applicants can establish economically in Canada without relying on social services and plan to permanently live outside Québec.

2. Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)

  • Skilled tradespersons from specific TEER groups 2 or 3
  • Those with relevant work experience spanning two years in the last five years
  • Applicants possessing either a job offer or a trade certification.

Your eligibility hinges on factors like experience, language proficiency, and having the necessary trade certification.

3. Why It Exists? Purpose of This Program:

The Federal Skilled Trades Program was devised to attract skilled tradespersons who can add substantial value to the Canadian workforce. It's an excellent opportunity for individuals seeking a prosperous life in Canada.

4. Application Process: How to Apply?

  • Step 1: Ensure you meet the requirements, including language proficiency and relevant experience.
  • Step 2: Create and submit a profile through the express entry system.
  • Step 3: Secure a rank based on the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS).
  • Step 4: Wait for an invitation to apply in line with your CRS score. Step 5: The Final Verdict.

5. What's Next Once You're Approved?

Upon approval through this skilled trades pathway, you can relocate to Canada and start your new chapter as a permanent resident.

Wrapping Up:

The Federal Skilled Trades pathway offers a comprehensive method for skilled tradespersons to consider Canada as their new residence. This guide is sculpted to simplify the procedure for you, ensuring clarity at each phase. Our objective is to guide you through every crucial step, allowing you to traverse the program with ease and confidence.

3. What is this Program and its Purpose?

The Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTC) is one way you can immigrate to Canada if you're good at a particular skilled trade, like being an electrician or a plumber. Here's what you need to know to get started:

What is This Program Really About?

The Skilled Trades Pathway, similar to a well-laid out plan by the Canadian government, is meant to support individuals skilled in trades who wish to secure permanent residence in Canada. It is here to make the transition to living in Canada more orderly and less perplexing. It’s like a roadmap guiding skilled tradespersons through the process of making Canada their permanent home.

Why Was This Program Created?

Objective: Canada values skilled tradespersons and their unparalleled abilities. Therefore, this initiative was developed to accelerate and simplify the process of relocation and settlement in Canada for such individuals. It is fundamentally about linking skilled individuals with appropriate opportunities within the Canadian landscape.

How Does It Function? To become an integral part of Canada, there are specific steps and standards to follow. Candidates are required to demonstrate their trade skills and a sincere desire to reside and work in Canada. This ensures that those entering through this structured program are prepared to enhance the Canadian landscape and merge into its diverse environment harmoniously.

4. How does this Program Operate?

The Federal Skilled Trades Worker Program is a system that allows people with specific job skills to move to Canada. If you're good at a certain trade and can speak either English or French, this might be a way for you to live in Canada permanently. Here's a straightforward guide to help you understand how to go through the process:

1. See if You Qualify: First, find out if you meet the requirements. You'll need experience in a specific trade and be able to speak English or French well. You'll also need either a job offer from a Canadian company or a special certificate that says you're qualified to work in that trade in Canada.

2. Collect Your Papers: Get all the documents you'll need. This usually includes ID, language test results, proof of your job skills, and any job offers or certificates.

3. Make an Online Profile: Go to the Express Entry website and fill out a profile with all your details about the Federal Skilled Trades Program. This profile goes into a large pool of people who want to move to Canada.

4. Get Your Score: You'll be given a score based on things like your age, how much you've worked, and how well you know English or French. This score is then used to rank you against everyone else in the pool.

5. Wait for an Invitation: Every so often, Canada invites the people with the highest scores to apply to live there permanently. If you're one of them, you'll get an invite to fill out a more detailed application.

6. Send in Your Full Application: If you get an invite, you'll have a set amount of time, usually around 60 days, to send in all your paperwork.

7. Hear Back: After looking at all your information, the Canadian government will make a decision. If they say yes, you'll get a document confirming that you can move to Canada permanently.

8. Move to Canada: Once you're approved, you can move to Canada. There may be a few final steps like showing that you have enough money to support yourself.

By following these steps carefully, you have a good chance of successfully moving to Canada through the Federal Skilled Trades Worker Program.

5. Who's the Ideal Candidate?

The Federal Skilled Trades Program Worker is someone skilled in a specific trade like plumbing, electrical work, or carpentry and wants to live in Canada. To qualify for this program, you must have a certain amount of work experience in a trade that Canada needs. Additionally, you must be proficient in either English or French, demonstrated through testing. If you meet these criteria and are skilled in a specific trade that's in demand, this program could be the right path for you to become a permanent resident in Canada.

6. Eligibility criteria: What are they?

This program is aimed at people who have specific trade skills and fall under certain job groups known as TEER 2 or TEER 3. If you are one of these skilled tradespersons and can show that you can support yourself financially in Canada without needing public assistance, this could be a suitable path for you. This is particularly true if you intend to live in Canada but not in the province of Québec.

PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS

Program Description:  The Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTC) is for skilled trade persons aiming to permanently live in Canada (excluding Québec) and economically establish themselves without relying on social services.

Application Method:  Processed through the express entry online application management system. Applicants are ranked using a point-based system, the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), and the highest scorers receive invitations to apply for permanent residence.

Point System:  Applicants can earn a maximum of 1200 points on the CRS. Points are allocated differently for single and married individuals based on core human capital, skills transferability, and additional factors like provincial nomination and arranged employment.

Language Requirement:  Applicants must earn a minimum of CLB/NCLC 5 for speaking and listening, and CLB/NCLC 4 for reading and writing in either English or French.

Experience Requirement:  Must have two years of Canadian or foreign experience in the last 5 years in a skilled trade under specific NOC groups. A combination of full-time and/or part-time, non-continuous work is also allowed.

Job Offer:  A valid LMIA-based job offer for full-time work for at least one year or a certificate of qualification in the skilled trade issued by a Canadian authority is required. The job offer can be given by two employers.

Education Requirement:  School education is not required, but trade certification is mandatory. Only experience gained after obtaining the required trade certification is counted.

Settlement Funds:  Proof of the required amount of funds for the applicant and family members or a valid job offer from a Canadian employer is required.

What You Need:

1. Points: Try to get the highest score you can out of 1,200 points on a scale called the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). If you're single or married, the points are allocated a bit differently. Here's how the points are divided:

  • Your basic personal details like age and experience can get you between 460 and 500 points.
  • If you have a spouse or live-in partner, you can get an extra 40 points.
  • Certain skills you have can earn you up to 100 points.
  • If you have extra things like a job already lined up in Canada, you could get up to 600 points.

2. Language: You need to score at least CLB/NCLC 5 for talking and listening and CLB/NCLC 4 for reading and writing in either English or French.

3. Work Experience: You should have worked for at least two years in a skilled trade within the last 5 years. This work should fall under certain job categories known as TEER 2 or TEER 3. Specific NOC groups apply, so make sure your experience is in one of those.

Note: As of the date this information was compiled, the relevant NOC (National Occupational Classification) groups are: 72, 73, 82, 92, 93 excluding the sub-major group of 932, minor group 6320, and unit group 62200. A combination of full-time and/or part-time, non-continuous work is also allowed.

4. Job Offer: You need one of two things:

  • A solid job offer that will last for at least a year and is backed by something called an LMIA. OR
  • A certificate that shows you are qualified in your trade, issued by a Canadian authority for the Federal Skilled Trades Program.

Note: You can also get a job offer from two different employers, but you must be capable and willing to do the job.

5. Education: You don't need to have gone to school, but you do need a trade certification. Only the work you did after getting this certificate will count toward your application.

6. Money: You need to show that you have enough money to take care of yourself and your family, unless you already have a job lined up in Canada.

By understanding and meeting these requirements, you're setting yourself up for a strong application under this program.

7. How do I Apply? Step-by-step Process!.

Here's a simplified guide to help you understand how to apply for the Federal Skilled Trades Program:

Step 1: Check Eligibility

  • What to Do: Before you do anything, make sure you fit all the basic requirements of the program.

Step 2: Create an Online Profile

  • What to Do: Go to the Express Entry system online and create a profile.
  • Why It Matters: You'll get points based on things like how old you are, what kind of job experience you have, and your education.
  • The Goal: Try to get as many points as you can because the more points you have, the better your chances of getting picked.

Step 3: Wait for Invitation

  • What Happens: The immigration office, known as IRCC, will look at the profiles with the most points and invite those people to apply for permanent residence in Canada.

Important Criteria You Need to Meet

Step 4: Get a High Score on CRS

  • What is CRS: The Comprehensive Ranking System, or CRS, is a point system that helps determine your eligibility.
  • The Goal: The highest score you can aim for is 1200 points.

How Points Are Given: Federal Skilled Trades Program:

  • Personal Information: You can earn between 460 and 500 points based on details like your age and job experience.
  • Marital Status: Being married or having a live-in partner can add 40 points to your score.
  • Skills: You can earn up to 100 points for skills that are easily transferable to a new job.
  • Job Offer in Canada: If you already have a job offer in Canada, you can earn up to an additional 600 points.

Why Your Score Matters: The higher your CRS score, the better your chances of being invited to apply for permanent residency in Canada.

Step 5: Language Skills

  • What to Do: Take a language test in English or French.
  • The Goal: Score at least a 5 in speaking and listening and a 4 in reading and writing.

Step 6: Work Experience

Work Experience Requirements for the Federal Skilled Trades Program:

  • Time Requirement: You need at least two years of work experience within the last five years.
  • Type of Work: Your work should fall under certain categories as per the Canadian government's National Occupation Classification (NOC).
  • Full-Time or Part-Time: The work can be either full-time or part-time and doesn't need to be continuous.

Specific Job Categories:

  • Major Group 72: Technical trades and transportation (excluding Sub-Major Group 726).
  • Major Group 73: General trades.
  • Major Group 82: Supervisors in natural resources, agriculture, and related fields.
  • Major Group 83: Occupations in natural resources and related production.
  • Major Group 92: Processing, manufacturing, and utilities supervisors, and utility operators.
  • Major Group 93: Central control and process operators and aircraft assembly (excluding Sub-Major Group 932).
  • Minor Group 6320: Cooks, butchers, and bakers.
  • Unit Group 62200: Chefs.

Note: Your work experience should fit into these categories, but be aware that some sub-categories are not accepted for the Federal Skilled Trades Program.

Step 7: Job Offer or Certification

  • What You Need: Either a job offer that lasts at least a year or a certification for your trade from Canada.
  • Ability to Work: You need to actually be able to do the job you're offered.

Step 8: Education

  • What You Need: You don't need to have gone to high school or college, but you do need to be certified in your trade.

Step 9: Money in the Bank

  • What to Do: Show you have enough money to take care of yourself and any family who come with you, unless you have a job waiting in Canada.

Step 10: Submit Your Application

  • Final Step: Once you're sure you meet all these requirements, go ahead and submit your application online.

By following these ten steps in order, you're setting yourself up for the best chance of getting into this program.

8. What are the Required Documents?

When applying for the Federal Skilled Trades Program, you'll need to submit several documents to verify the information in your application. Here's a handy checklist:

1. Passport or Travel Document: This proves your identity and nationality.

2. Language Test Results: You'll need official results from an approved agency showing you meet the minimum language requirements.

3. Work Experience Documents: Proof of your work experience is crucial. This can include reference letters, pay stubs, or tax documents.

4. Job Offer or Certificate of Qualification: A letter from your future employer offering you a job, or your certificate of qualification from a Canadian provincial, territorial or federal authority.

5. Education Credentials Assessment (ECA) Report: If you're using education to bolster your application, you'll need an ECA report from an approved agency.

6. Medical Exam Confirmation: You'll need to undergo a medical examination by an approved doctor and provide confirmation.

7. Police Certificates: These are required to prove you have no criminal record. You need one from each country you've lived in for six months or more since age 18.

8. Proof of Funds: You must show you have enough money to settle in Canada unless you are currently able to legally work in Canada or have a valid job offer from an employer in Canada.

The journey towards a new life in Canada through the Federal Skilled Trades Program involves a fair amount of paperwork and patience. However, with thorough preparation, careful attention to detail, and a clear understanding of the process, your pathway to Canadian residency can become a lot smoother.

9. How is the Application processed?

The application process for the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) follows specific stages. Here's a step-by-step rundown in a layman-friendly, structured format:

1. Completeness Check:

  • After submission, the first step is to confirm that the application is complete, with all required forms and documents included.

2. Eligibility Evaluation:

  • The IRCC staff will assess the application to ensure it meets the FSTP requirements. This includes checking details like work experience in a skilled trade, language proficiency, and job offers if applicable.

3. Scoring and Ranking:

  • If the application is complete and meets the eligibility criteria, it will be assigned a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score and placed in the Express Entry pool.

4. Invitation to Apply (ITA):

  • Periodically, IRCC will issue Invitations to Apply for permanent residence to the highest-scoring applicants in the Express Entry pool.

5. Further Documentation:

  • If you receive an ITA, you'll generally have 60 days to submit additional required documents, such as medical exam results, police clearances, and proof of funds.

6. In-Depth Review:

  • IRCC officers will closely examine all the submitted documents for accuracy and authenticity. Any discrepancy can lead to delays or even application refusal.

7. Security and Medical Checks:

  • Applicants and any accompanying family members will have to undergo medical examinations and security background checks.

8. Decision Phase:

  • Once all documents are verified and checks are completed, a final decision is made on the application. If approved, a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) will be issued.

9. Notification:

  • You will be informed of the decision via mail or an online portal. If the application is refused, you usually receive a reason for the decision.

10. Landing and Entry:

  • If approved, you'll need to pay a landing fee and make plans to travel to Canada. Upon arrival, immigration officials perform a final check.

11. Receipt of Permanent Resident Card:

  • After successfully entering Canada, your Permanent Resident Card is usually sent by mail.

Please note that these steps serve as general guidelines and may differ slightly depending on specific circumstances. Always refer to the most current information provided by IRCC for the Federal Skilled Trades Program.

10. What are the time and cost involved?

When budgeting for your immigration journey, it's essential to consider both the financial and time investments.

Processing Times: The processing time for applications under the Federal Skilled Trades Program is typically around six months. However, this can vary depending on individual circumstances and the completeness of your application. It's best to check the Government of Canada's official website for the most current processing times.

Application Fees: You need to pay a processing fee and a right of permanent residence fee when you submit your application. Please check the official website for the most current fees. The primary costs associated with the application are the processing fee and the right of permanent residence fee. If you're bringing family members with you, there would be additional charges for them as well. As these fees are subject to change, always check the official website for the most up-to-date information.

Remember, there may be additional costs involved, such as fees for obtaining necessary documents (like passports, medical exams, or police certificates), language testing, and education credential assessments.

11. What to do (or avoid) in my application?

Applying for the FSTP involves careful planning and attention to detail. Here are some best practices to keep in mind as you prepare your application:

1. Prepare Well in Advance: Give yourself plenty of time to gather documents, take language tests, and complete all parts of the application. Rushing can lead to mistakes or oversights.

2. Be Truthful and Accurate: Ensure all the information you provide is accurate and truthful. Providing misleading information can lead to application denial or even a ban from reapplying.

3. Consult with an Immigration Professional: If you're unsure about anything in the process, consider seeking advice from an immigration professional. They can provide guidance tailored to your situation and help ensure you're on the right track.

4. Stay Up-to-Date with Changes: Immigration rules and procedures can change. Regularly check the Government of Canada's official website for updates related to the FSTP.

5. Proofread Your Application: A simple typo or error could delay your application or result in denial. Make sure to review all your information before submitting.

With careful planning, diligent preparation, and a commitment to accuracy, you can navigate the Federal Skilled Trades Program application process successfully. Remember, this is a significant step in your journey to building a prosperous life in Canada, so take your time and ensure you've put your best foot forward.

12. Key Insights for Your Application

When embarking on the application process for the Federal Skilled Trades Program, there are several vital practices to follow and pitfalls to avoid.

Dos:

1. Provide Complete and Accurate Information: Fill out your application thoroughly and correctly. Leaving out information or providing inaccurate details could delay your application or lead to refusal.

2. Regularly Check Your Application Status: Keep an eye on your application status online to stay updated and respond promptly to any requests for additional information.

3. Follow Instructions Carefully: Each part of the application process has specific instructions. Make sure to read and follow them closely.

Don'ts:

1. Avoid Fraudulent Activity: Engaging in fraudulent activity, such as using false documents, could lead to severe consequences, including being barred from reapplying.

2. Don't Misrepresent: Providing false information or omitting relevant details in your application is considered misrepresentation and can result in application denial and a possible ban from reapplying.

3. Don't Overstay Your Authorized Period: If you're in Canada while applying, ensure you maintain legal status and do not stay beyond your authorized period.

13. Case Study: A look at a fictional example

Let's imagine a hypothetical case to illustrate how one might navigate the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) application process in Canada.

Case Example: Meet John, a Plumber from Country X

Background:
John is a 32-year-old plumber with 5 years of work experience in his trade. He is married and has good English language skills. He also has some savings and is looking to immigrate to Canada for better opportunities.

Step 1: Eligibility Check

  • John starts by researching the FSTP eligibility requirements. He realizes that his trade as a plumber falls under Major Group 72, one of the qualified NOC categories. He also calculates his points on the Selection Factor Point Grid and finds that he meets the minimum requirements.

Step 2: Create Online Profile

  • Confident about his eligibility, John creates an online profile on the Express Entry system, filling in details about his age, work experience, language proficiency, etc.

Step 3: Enter the Candidate Pool

  • Once his profile is complete, John is entered into a pool of candidates. His profile receives a CRS score, which is high due to his work experience, language skills, and age.

Step 4: Wait for an Invitation

  • After a couple of months, John receives an invitation from IRCC to apply for permanent residence since his CRS score is among the top scores in the pool.

Step 5: Complete Application

  • Thrilled to receive the invitation, John promptly gathers all necessary documents, such as work experience certificates, language test scores, and financial statements. He submits his full application within the 60-day timeframe.

Step 6: Review and Verification

  • John's application undergoes a review by IRCC. All his documents are verified, and he is not called in for an interview as his application is straightforward.

Step 7: Decision Time

  • After a thorough assessment, IRCC approves John's application. He receives a Confirmation of Permanent Residence and a visa to enter Canada.

Step 8: Prepare for Arrival

  • John shows proof that he has enough funds to support himself and his family upon their arrival in Canada. He also researches settlement services to ease his transition.

Within a few months of his the Federal Skilled Trades Program approval, John and his family move to Canada, where he starts working as a plumber and begins his new life.

By following each step properly, John successfully navigates the FSTP application process and achieves his dream of moving to Canada.

14. Common Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What kinds of skilled trades are eligible for the FSTP?

A1. The FSTP covers a wide range of skilled trades, including but not limited to: industrial, electrical, construction, maintenance, equipment operation, technical jobs in natural resources, agriculture, certain skilled trades in manufacturing, processing, and cooking in the food industry.

Q2. How does the Express Entry system relate to the Federal Skilled Trades Program?

A2. The Express Entry system is an online immigration application system used by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for managing applications for permanent residence from skilled workers. The Federal Skilled Trades Program is one of the three programs managed under the Express Entry system.

Q3. How can I prove my language proficiency for the FSTP application?

A3. You can prove your language proficiency by taking an approved language test in English or French. You must meet the minimum level of Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 5 for speaking and listening, and CLB 4 for reading and writing.

Q4. What is the significance of the National Occupational Classification (NOC) in this process?

A4. The NOC is a system used by the Canadian government to classify jobs. It describes duties, skills, talents and work settings for different jobs. For the FSTP, your skilled trade must be listed in NOC Skill Level B.

Q5. Can I apply for the FSTP without a job offer?

A5. Yes, but without a job offer, you must have a certificate of qualification in your skilled trade issued by a Canadian provincial, territorial, or federal authority.

Q6. What happens after I receive an invitation to apply?

A6. After you receive an invitation to apply, you'll have 60 days to submit a complete application for permanent residence. This includes all supporting documentation.

Q7. Can my family members come with me if I'm accepted through the Federal Skilled Trades Program?

A7. Yes, your spouse or common-law partner, as well as dependent children, can come with you to Canada if you're accepted through the Federal Skilled Trades Program. They will need to be included in your application.

Q8. How often are Express Entry draws conducted?

A8. Express Entry draws typically occur every two weeks, but the exact schedule can vary.

Q9. What are my options if my application is denied?

A9. If your application is denied, the reason for denial will be explained. You can address these issues and reapply or consider other immigration options.

Q10. How can I increase my chances of being invited to apply through the Express Entry system?

A10. To increase your chances, ensure that your Express Entry profile is complete and accurate, improve your language skills, gain more skilled work experience, or obtain a Canadian job offer or a nomination from a Canadian province or territory.

Always make sure to check with the specific institution or official Canadian government resources for the most accurate and updated information about the Federal Skilled Trades Program.

15. Where to find resources?

The official government website for immigration-related matters. Here, you'll find in-depth information about the Federal Skilled Trades Program, Express Entry, and other immigration programs. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)

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Kamal Akhtar (Immigration Lawyer)
Barrister, Solicitor & Notary Public
BCOM; MBA; LL.B; LL.M (York University, Toronto)

As the founder of this website and your guide through the complexities of Canadian immigration law, my academic credentials include a Bachelor of Law  (LL.B) and Master of Law (LL.M) from York University, Toronto, complemented by an Honours Diploma in Immigration Consulting. I am a lawyer licensed by the Law Society of Ontario (LSO). My affiliation with legal associations such as the Canadian Immigration Lawyers Association (CILA), the Canadian Association of Professional Immigration Consultants (CAPIC), the Canadian Bar Association (CBA), and the Ontario Bar Association (OBA) underscores my commitment to  immigration policies and practices. I share insights shaped by over 25 years of legal experience. Please note that information on this website does not constitute legal or professional advice.

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