The Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) is part of Canada's Express Entry system, designed for skilled trades workers who want to apply for permanent residency (PR). It provides an excellent opportunity for experienced tradespeople to build a future in Canada, especially in high-demand industries.
Eligibility Requirements for FSTP
To qualify under the FSTP, candidates must meet the following minimum requirements:
1. Skilled Work Experience
At least 2 years of full-time work experience (or equivalent part-time work) in a skilled trade within the last 5 years.
The work experience must be in a skilled trade listed under NOC TEER 2 or TEER 3, such as:
Industrial, Electrical, and Construction Trades: Electricians, plumbers, carpenters.
Maintenance and Equipment Operation Trades: Heavy equipment operators, mechanics.
Supervisors and Technical Jobs in Natural Resources and Agriculture.
Manufacturing and Processing Supervisors.
Your job duties must match those described in the National Occupational Classification (NOC).
2. Valid Job Offer or Certification
You must have one of the following:
A valid job offer for full-time work (minimum 30 hours/week) in Canada for at least 1 year.
A Certificate of Qualification in your trade issued by a Canadian provincial, territorial, or federal authority.
Certificates typically require passing an assessment or exam to meet Canadian standards.
3. Language Proficiency
Achieve the minimum score in an approved language test (IELTS, CELPIP, TEF, or TCF Canada):
CLB 5 (Canadian Language Benchmark) for speaking and listening.
CLB 4 for reading and writing.
4. Proof of Funds
Demonstrate enough funds to support yourself and your family after arriving in Canada (unless you already have a job offer or are currently working in Canada).
5. Education (Optional)
No formal education requirement, but you can improve your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score by:
Including your educational qualifications.
Getting your foreign credentials assessed through an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) to determine their equivalency in Canada.
6. Medical and Security Clearance
Pass a medical examination to prove good health.
Submit police clearance certificates for all countries where you’ve lived for 6+ months since age 18.
Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
Application Procedure for FSTP
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Verify your work experience matches the eligible skilled trades under NOC TEER 2 or TEER 3.
Step 2: Take a Language Test
Complete an approved language test (IELTS, CELPIP, TEF, or TCF).
Ensure you meet the minimum CLB 5 (speaking and listening) and CLB 4 (reading and writing) requirements.
Step 3: Obtain a Job Offer or Certificate of Qualification
Valid Job Offer: Secure a job offer from a Canadian employer for at least 1 year.
Certificate of Qualification: If applying without a job offer, obtain a certificate by passing a provincial or territorial trade assessment.
Step 4: Create an Express Entry Profile
Create an online profile in the Express Entry system, providing details about your work experience, language scores, and other qualifications.
You’ll receive a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score based on these factors.
Step 5: Wait for an Invitation to Apply (ITA)
The Canadian government conducts regular Express Entry draws to invite candidates with the highest CRS scores.
If selected, you’ll receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency.
Step 6: Submit PR Application
Submit a complete application for permanent residency within 60 days of receiving an ITA.
Include the following supporting documents:
Language test results.
Proof of work experience.
Job offer or Certificate of Qualification.
Proof of funds.
Medical exam results.
Police clearance certificates.
Step 7: Medical and Security Checks
Undergo a medical examination and background checks to ensure you meet Canada’s health and security standards.
Step 8: Receive Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR)
Once approved, you’ll receive a COPR and a visa to enter Canada as a permanent resident.
Processing Time and Costs
Processing Time:
Typically 6 months from the time of submission of a complete PR application.
Costs:
Government Fees:
CAD 850 for the primary applicant.
CAD 515 for a spouse or common-law partner.
CAD 230 per dependent child.
Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF): CAD 515 (paid only after approval).
Additional costs: Language tests, medical exams, police certificates, and trade certification.
Benefits of FSTP
Direct Pathway to PR: Skilled tradespeople are in high demand across Canada.
Relocate with Family: Bring your spouse and dependent children.
Live and Work Anywhere in Canada: No restrictions on your location.
Access to Free Healthcare and Education: Enjoy the benefits of being a Canadian resident.
Pathway to Citizenship: Become eligible to apply for Canadian citizenship after fulfilling residency requirements.
Why Choose ConsultME for FSTP Assistance?
Expert Guidance: Assistance in verifying eligibility and selecting the best trade category.
Job Offer Support: Help in finding suitable employment opportunities in Canada.
Trade Certification Assistance: Guidance in obtaining certificates of qualification.
Complete Application Support: From document preparation to submitting your PR application.