Federal Skilled Trades Program

Core Eligibility Requirements

1. Work Experience

At least two years of full-time work experience (or an equal amount of part-time work experience) in a skilled trade within the last five years. Your occupation must be classified under NOC TEER 2 or TEER 3.

2. Language Skills

Minimum Canadian Language Benchmark 5 in speaking and listening, and CLB 4 in reading and writing in English or French.

3. Education

Education is not mandatory for FSTP. However, an Educational Credential Assessment improves your Comprehensive Ranking System scores and strengthens your application.

4. Job Offer or Certification

You must have either:

• A valid full-time job offer from a Canadian employer for at least one year, OR
• A certificate of qualification in your skilled trade issued by a Canadian provincial or territorial authority

Application Process

1. Create Express Entry profile
2. Receive CRS ranking score
3. Obtain Invitation to Apply if your score is competitive
4. Submit complete application within 60 days

Program Benefits

The FSTP provides a streamlined permanent residency pathway enabling skilled trades contributors to integrate into Canadian society.

• Lower language requirements compared to other Express Entry programs
• No formal education requirement
• Fast processing through Express Entry (typically 6 months)
• Ability to include family members in your application

Processing Time

Most Express Entry applications, including FSTP, are processed within 6 months after submission.