The Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) is one of the three programs managed under Canada’s Express Entry system. It is designed for skilled professionals who want to apply for permanent residency (PR) in Canada based on their education, work experience, language skills, and other factors.
Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
Eligibility Requirements for FSWP
To qualify for the FSWP, candidates must meet the following minimum requirements:
1. Work Experience
At least 1 year of continuous, full-time work experience (or equivalent part-time) in the past 10 years.
The work experience must be in a skilled occupation classified under:
NOC TEER 0: Managerial positions.
NOC TEER 1: Professional roles requiring a degree.
NOC TEER 2 or 3: Technical jobs or trades requiring college diplomas or apprenticeships.
The job duties must match the NOC description.
2. Language Proficiency
Achieve a minimum score in one of the following approved language tests:
English: IELTS (General Training) or CELPIP (General).
French: TEF or TCF Canada.
Minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 7 in all four abilities:
Listening, Speaking, Reading, and Writing.
3. Education
Minimum: A secondary school diploma (high school certificate) or higher.
Non-Canadian education credentials must be evaluated through an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) by a designated organization.
Examples: WES, IQAS, or CES.
4. Proof of Funds
Must demonstrate sufficient funds to support themselves and their family after moving to Canada.
Exceptions: Candidates with a valid job offer in Canada do not need to show proof of funds.
5. Selection Factors
Candidates must score at least 67 out of 100 points in the following factors:
Age: Maximum points for ages 18-35.
Education: Higher degrees earn more points.
Work Experience: Maximum points for 6 or more years of experience.
Language Skills: Higher CLB scores earn more points.
Adaptability: Points for previous studies/work in Canada or relatives living there.
Arranged Employment: Points for valid job offers.
6. Medical and Security Clearance
Pass a medical examination to prove good health.
Provide police clearance certificates from all countries where the candidate has lived for 6+ months since age 18.
FSWP Application Procedure
Step 1: Check Eligibility
Use the Canada Immigration CRS Calculator to determine if you qualify under FSWP and your potential CRS score.
Step 2: Take a Language Test
Complete an approved language test (IELTS, CELPIP, TEF, or TCF).
Ensure the test results meet the minimum CLB 7 requirement.
Step 3: Obtain an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)
Get your foreign education assessed by a recognized agency to determine its Canadian equivalency.
Step 4: Create an Express Entry Profile
Create an online profile in the Express Entry system, including details like education, work experience, language scores, and proof of funds.
Your profile will receive a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score.
Step 5: Wait for an Invitation to Apply (ITA)
The Canadian government holds regular Express Entry draws and invites candidates with the highest CRS scores.
Receiving an ITA allows you to apply for permanent residency.
Step 6: Submit PR Application
After receiving an ITA, submit your complete PR application within 60 days through the online portal.
Include all supporting documents such as:
Language test results.
ECA report.
Proof of work experience (reference letters, pay stubs, etc.).
Proof of funds.
Step 7: Medical and Background Checks
Undergo a medical examination with a panel-approved doctor.
Submit police clearance certificates for security checks.
Step 8: Receive PR Confirmation and Visa
If approved, you will receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and a visa to travel to Canada.
Processing Time and Costs
Processing Time:
Typically 6 months from the time a complete PR application is submitted.
Costs:
Express Entry Profile: Free to create.
Government Fees:
CAD 850 for the principal applicant.
CAD 515 for a spouse/partner.
CAD 230 per dependent child.
Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF): CAD 515 per adult (paid after PR approval).
Additional costs: Language test fees, ECA report fees, medical exams, and police certificates.
Benefits of FSWP
Opportunity to live and work anywhere in Canada.
Access to free healthcare and education for you and your family.
Eligibility to apply for Canadian citizenship after fulfilling residency requirements.
At ConsultME Global Solutions, we simplify the FSWP process by providing expert guidance, document preparation, and support throughout the journey.