What skilled trades qualify for the Federal Skilled Trades Program?

Eligible trades fall under specific National Occupational Classification groups including industrial, electrical and construction trades, maintenance and equipment operation trades, and other technical trades and transport occupations.

Do I need a job offer to qualify for FSTP?

Yes, you generally need either a valid full-time job offer for at least one year or a certificate of qualification from a Canadian provincial or territorial body to qualify under the Federal Skilled Trades Program.

How much work experience is required for FSTP?

You need at least two years of full-time, or equivalent part-time, work experience in your skilled trade within the five years before applying.

What language level do I need for the Federal Skilled Trades Program?

You must meet a minimum Canadian Language Benchmark level, which is generally lower than other Express Entry categories, reflecting the practical nature of skilled trade occupations.

How long does the FSTP application take once selected?

Once you receive an Invitation to Apply through Express Entry, most complete FSTP applications are processed within approximately 6 months.

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Express Entry Program

Federal Skilled Trades (FSTP) Program

Designed for skilled tradespeople who want to become permanent residents based on being qualified in a skilled trade. Navigate the Express Entry system with specialized guidance for trades professionals.

High Success Rate

FSTP Applications

What is the FSTP Program?

The Federal Skilled Trades Program is one of three federal economic immigration programs managed through Express Entry. It's specifically designed for skilled tradespeople who want to become permanent residents of Canada.

For Skilled Tradespeople

Designed specifically for qualified tradespeople with at least 2 years of work experience in eligible skilled trades.

Express Entry System

Managed through the Express Entry system with regular draws specifically targeting skilled trades professionals.

Permanent Residence

Successful applicants receive permanent resident status and can live and work anywhere in Canada.

Eligible Skilled Trades

The FSTP covers skilled trades organized under specific NOC (National Occupational Classification) groups. Here are the main categories of eligible trades.

Construction

Electricians

Plumbers

Carpenters

Welders

Heavy Equipment Operators

Manufacturing

Industrial Mechanics

Machinists

Tool and Die Makers

Sheet Metal Workers

Transportation

Automotive Service Technicians

Aircraft Mechanics

Railway Carmen

Natural Resources

Power Engineers

Crane Operators

Oil and Gas Drillers

Agriculture

Agricultural Equipment Operators

Greenhouse and Nursery Workers

Livestock Workers

Grain Elevator Operators

Agricultural Service Contractors

Important Note

This is not a complete list of eligible trades. The specific NOC codes that qualify for FSTP are regularly updated. Contact us to verify if your trade qualifies for the program.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the FSTP program, you must meet all minimum requirements.

Skilled Trades Work Experience

At least 2 years of full-time work experience (or equivalent part-time) in a skilled trade within the 5 years before applying

Language Proficiency

Minimum CLB 5 for speaking and listening, CLB 4 for reading and writing in English or French

Job Offer or Certificate

Valid job offer of full-time employment for at least 1 year OR certificate of qualification in that skilled trade issued by a Canadian authority

Proof of Funds

Sufficient funds to support yourself and your family members in Canada (unless working in Canada)

Admissibility

Must be admissible to Canada (no criminal record, medical clearance, etc.)

Meet Job Requirements

Meet the job requirements for that skilled trade as set out in the National Occupational Classification (NOC)

Key Requirement

You must have either a valid job offer of full-time employment for at least 1 year OR a certificate of qualification in your skilled trade issued by a Canadian provincial, territorial, or federal authority.

CRS Score Breakdown

Once you meet the minimum requirements, you will be ranked in the Express Entry pool using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). The maximum possible score is 1,200 points.

Know Your CRS Score

Use the official Government of Canada CRS calculator to estimate your score based on your trades profile — no account needed.

We Help You Maximize Your CRS Score

Our consultants identify every opportunity to boost your score — from trade certification strategies to job offers and provincial nominations.

Improve language test scores for more points

Obtain Canadian trade certification

Secure a valid job offer (LMIA) for up to 200 bonus points

Gain Canadian work experience

Provincial Nomination for 600 additional points

Application Process

Our specialized approach ensures your FSTP application is handled by experts who understand the unique requirements of skilled trades immigration.

Eligibility Assessment

1-2 weeks

We evaluate your skilled trades experience and determine if you meet FSTP requirements and calculate your CRS score.

Trade Certification Review

4-12 weeks

Assess your trade qualifications and help obtain Canadian trade certification or secure a valid job offer if needed.

Document Preparation

3-6 weeks

Gather all required documents including language tests, work experience letters, trade certificates, and job offers.

Express Entry Profile

1 week

Create your Express Entry profile and enter the pool of candidates for federal economic programs.

Invitation to Apply (ITA)

Varies

Receive an ITA if your CRS score is above the minimum cut-off in a draw.

Application Submission

2-4 weeks

Submit your complete application for permanent residence within 60 days of receiving ITA.

Application Processing

Varies

IRCC processes your application, including background checks and verification.

Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to common questions about the Federal Skilled Trades Program.

Ready to Apply for the FSTP Program?

Let our experienced immigration consultants guide you through the Federal Skilled Trades program application process and help you leverage your trade skills for Canadian permanent residence.