Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)

by Landmark Law

A Pathway for Tradespeople to Canada

The Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) is designed for skilled trades professionals who wish to become permanent residents of Canada. If you have expertise in a trade and meet the requirements, this program could open doors to a new life in Canada.

What is the Federal Skilled Trades Program?

The FSTP is one of the three programs managed under the Express Entry system. It focuses on individuals with experience in skilled trades, helping Canada address labour shortages in essential industries like construction, manufacturing, and maintenance.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the FSTP, you must meet the following requirements:

1. Work Experience

  • At least two years of full-time work experience (or equivalent part-time) in a skilled trade within the last five years.
  • Your work must align with a skilled trade listed under the National Occupational Classification (NOC) TEER categories 2 or 3. Examples include:
  • Industrial, electrical, and construction trades.
  • Maintenance and equipment operation trades.
  • Supervisors and technical jobs in natural resources, agriculture, and related production.

2. Job Offer or Certification

  • A valid job offer for full-time work (at least one year) in Canada, OR
  • A certificate of qualification in your trade from a Canadian provincial, territorial, or federal authority.

3. Language Proficiency

  • Achieve a minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) score of:
  • CLB 5 in speaking and listening.
  • CLB 4 in reading and writing.

4. Other Requirements

  • Meet the job requirements for your trade as listed in the NOC.
  • Demonstrate an ability to settle in Canada (e.g., sufficient funds if not currently working in Canada).

How Does It Work?

The FSTP operates through the Express Entry system, which ranks candidates using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). Points are awarded based on:

  • Work experience.
  • Language skills.
  • Education (optional but can improve your score).
  • Additional factors like a job offer or provincial nomination.

Top-ranking candidates are invited to apply for permanent residence through regular Express Entry draws.

Why Choose the FSTP?

The FSTP is tailored for tradespeople and offers several advantages:

  • Lower language requirements: Compared to other programs like the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP).
  • No formal education required: Though education can improve your CRS score, it’s not mandatory.
  • Pathway for in-demand skills: Tradespeople are highly sought after in Canada’s job market.

Recent Updates

As of November 2024, the FSTP includes:

  • Targeted draws for skilled trades: Certain industries, such as construction, transportation, and manufacturing, are being prioritized in Express Entry draws.
  • Streamlined certification processes: Improvements in recognising foreign trade certifications make it easier for skilled tradespeople to qualify.
  • Additional CRS points for French skills: Bilingual candidates can increase their chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA).

Visit the IRCC website for the latest updates and draw results.

Tips for Success

  1. Secure a Canadian certification: Research the requirements for trade certification in your province or territory of choice.
  2. Maximise CRS points: Language tests, provincial nominations, and job offers can boost your score.
  3. Highlight your work experience: Ensure your trade experience aligns with the NOC requirements.
  4. Stay informed: Follow updates about targeted draws and in-demand trades.

With the FSTP, your skilled trade expertise could help you build a prosperous future in Canada!