Express Entry FST

Eligibility Criteria for the Federal Skilled Trades Program

To qualify under FSTP, applicants must meet the following requirements:

1. Work Experience:

   • Have at least two years of full-time (or equivalent part-time) experience in a skilled trade within the last five years.
   • Work experience must be in an eligible NOC TEER 2 or 3 skilled trade (e.g., industrial, electrical, construction, mechanics, and food processing).

2. Job Offer or Certification:

   • Have either:
     • A valid job offer for at least one year from a Canadian employer, OR
     • A certificate of qualification in a skilled trade issued by a provincial, territorial, or federal authority.

3. Language Proficiency:

   • Achieve a minimum CLB 5 in speaking and listening and CLB 4 in reading and writing through an approved language test.

4. Education:

   • No education requirement, but a diploma, degree, or ECA report can increase CRS scores.

5. Residency Intent:

   • Plan to live outside Quebec.

6. Admissibility:

   • Meet Canada’s general health, security, and criminal background requirements.

Application Process for the Federal Skilled Trades Program

1. Check Eligibility:

   • Ensure your skilled trade is eligible under the program.

2. Create an Express Entry Profile:

   • Submit your details in the IRCC Express Entry system to obtain a CRS score.

3. Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA):

   • Top-scoring candidates in Express Entry draws receive an ITA for permanent residence.

4. Submit a Complete PR Application:

   • Provide proof of work experience, job offer or trade certification, language results, and background checks within 60 days of receiving an ITA.

5. Processing & Approval:

   • Applications are processed within six months, and successful applicants receive COPR to finalize their immigration.