When people think of immigrating to Canada, they often picture highly educated professionals such as engineers, doctors, or IT specialists. However, Canada’s economy depends just as heavily on skilled trades workers, electricians, plumbers, welders, cooks, mechanics, and technicians who keep essential industries running.
To address persistent labour shortages in these fields, Canada offers a focused immigration pathway known as the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) under the Express Entry system. The FSTP is specifically designed for individuals with hands-on expertise rather than formal academic qualifications.
What Is the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)?
The Federal Skilled Trades Program is one of the three main immigration programs managed through Express Entry, alongside the Federal Skilled Worker Program and the Canadian Experience Class. Unlike the other streams, which prioritise higher education or Canadian work experience, the FSTP focuses on practical trade experience and occupational competence.
The program targets workers in approved trade occupations across industrial, construction, electrical, mechanical, maintenance, transportation, and culinary sectors. By attracting qualified tradespeople from abroad, Canada ensures that key industries remain productive while supporting long-term economic growth and workforce stability.
Eligibility Criteria for the Federal Skilled Trades Program
To qualify under the FSTP, applicants must meet specific requirements that demonstrate their ability to integrate successfully into the Canadian workforce.
Eligibility Criteria Table
These criteria ensure that applicants possess verified skills, communication ability, and legal eligibility to live and work in Canada permanently.
Application Process for the Federal Skilled Trades Program
Step 1: Check Eligibility
Applicants must first ensure they meet the minimum eligibility requirements of the Federal Skilled Trades Program.
This includes having at least two years of recent work experience in an eligible skilled trade, meeting the required language proficiency levels, and holding either a valid Canadian job offer or a certificate of qualification issued by a Canadian authority.
Step 2: Take a Language Test
Candidates must complete an approved English or French language test and obtain the minimum required scores.
These results are mandatory to create an Express Entry profile and remain valid for a limited period.
Step 3: Create an Express Entry Profile
Eligible applicants then create an online Express Entry profile, providing detailed information about their work experience, language test results, trade qualifications, and personal background.
Based on this information, a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score is assigned.
Step 4: Enter the Express Entry Pool
Once the profile is submitted, the applicant enters the Express Entry pool, where they are ranked against other candidates.
Higher CRS scores increase the chances of being selected in an Express Entry draw.
Step 5: Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA)
Candidates with competitive CRS scores may receive an Invitation to Apply for permanent residence during a federal Express Entry draw.
This invitation allows the applicant to move forward with the full PR application.
Step 6: Submit the Complete PR Application
After receiving an ITA, applicants must submit all required documents within the specified timeframe.
This includes medical examinations, police clearance certificates, proof of work experience, and any supporting trade or employment documents.
Step 7: Application Review and Decision
Immigration authorities review the submitted application to verify eligibility and authenticity. Most applications under Express Entry are processed within approximately six months.
Step 8: Receive Confirmation of Permanent Residence
Once approved, applicants receive confirmation of permanent residence, allowing them and their accompanying family members to live and work anywhere in Canada.
Benefits of Immigrating Through the FSTP
The Federal Skilled Trades Program offers several advantages compared to other immigration routes:
Applicants benefit from fast processing times, permanent resident status upon approval, and the ability to live and work anywhere in Canada.
Family members, including spouses and dependent children, can be included in the same application.
Over time, permanent residents may also become eligible to apply for Canadian citizenship, providing long-term security and global mobility.
Additionally, the program values skills over formal education, making it particularly attractive for experienced trades professionals who may not hold university degrees but possess in-demand expertise.
How Canada’s FSTP Express Entry Supports Skilled Trades Workers
Skills-First Selection
The program prioritises hands-on trade experience over formal education, making it accessible for qualified trades professionals.
Direct PR Pathway
Eligible candidates can apply directly for permanent residency without needing prior Canadian work experience.
Faster Processing
Applications are processed through Express Entry, which follows standard federal timelines for quicker decisions.
Long-Term Settlement
Successful applicants gain the right to live and work anywhere in Canada and include immediate family members.