Federal Skilled Trades Program (FST)

The Federal Skilled Trades (FST) program is one of the three federal immigration programs managed by the Express Entry system. As with all Express Entry programs, FST uses the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) to rank interested candidates against one another, only inviting the most competitive candidates to apply for Canadian permanent residence.

FST Program Requirements

  1. The minimum level of language proficiency in either English or French
  2. At least two years of full-time (30 hrs/week) work experience in a skilled trade. The work experience must have been earned within five years before the submission of application
  3. The candidate must meet the employment requirements of his/her skilled trade as specified by the National Occupational Classification (NOC) system. However, you need not have specific certification to work in Canada if you have a job offer.
  4. Have a full-time job offer of a duration of at least 12 months in the candidate’s skilled trade. Otherwise, the candidate must have a Canadian certificate of qualification to practice their skilled trade in Canada.

    Summary

FSTP is a great way for you to obtain permanent residence in Canada if you have work experience in a skilled trade and a certificate to practice in Canada. Even if you don’t have a certificate, you can apply under FSTP if you have a Canadian job offer with a duration of at least one year.

If you think you are eligible for the Federal Skilled Trades Program, contact us to explore your options for migrating to Canada.