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Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)

SAAB Immigration Services Inc. | Immigration Experts for Canada   →  Visa   →  Immigrate to Canada Permanently   →  Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)

Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)

Canada values skilled tradespeople, and the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) is your gateway to permanent residency as a tradesperson. This program is designed for those with experience in eligible skilled trades, offering a path to contribute to Canada’s growing economy on a permanent basis. At SAAB Immigration Services Inc., we specialize in guiding tradespeople through the FSTP application process, ensuring your skills lead you to a successful future in Canada.

How the FSTP Works Within Express Entry

Unlike the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) or the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), the Federal Skilled Trades Program has unique eligibility requirements tailored to skilled trades professionals. However, since it is part of the Express Entry system, applicants must still create a profile, receive a CRS score, and wait for an Invitation to Apply (ITA).

Key Differences Between FSTP and Other Express Entry Programs

  • Lower Language Requirements: The FSTP has the most lenient language proficiency requirements compared to FSWP and CEC.
  • No Education Requirement: Unlike FSWP, candidates are not required to have post-secondary education to qualify. However, an ECA (Educational Credential Assessment) can boost CRS scores.
  • Occupation-Specific Pathway: The FSTP is tailored to skilled trades and requires work experience in eligible NOC TEER 2 & 3 trades.
  • Job Offer or Certification: To be eligible, applicants must have a valid Canadian job offer or a certificate of qualification from a Canadian province/territory.

Eligibility Criteria

Work Experience

Have at least two years of full-time work experience (or equivalent part-time experience) in a skilled trade within the last five years.

Language Proficiency

Meet the required language levels for speaking, listening, reading, and writing in English or French (CLB 5 for speaking and listening, CLB 4 for reading and writing).

Arranged Employment

Have a valid job offer for full-time employment for a total period of at least one year or a certificate of qualification in that skilled trade issued by a Canadian provincial or territorial authority.

FSTP & Express Entry: How They Work Together

  • Creating an Express Entry profile.
  • Entering the Express Entry pool and being ranked based on the CRS.
  • Receiving an ITA for permanent residence if you meet the CRS cut-off score.
  • Submitting a complete application for permanent residence within 60 days of receiving your ITA.

Since FSTP candidates often have lower CRS scores, it may worthwhile to explore:

  • Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) nominations (+600 CRS points for Express Entry based PNPs)
  • Job offers in Canada (up to 200 CRS points)
  • Improving language scores for higher CRS points

FAQs - Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)

What trades are eligible under FSTP?

Only TEERs 2 & 3 trades qualify for the FSTP. These include electricians, plumbers, welders, mechanics, chefs, butchers, and many more.

Can I apply without a job offer?

Yes, but only if you have a certificate of qualification from a Canadian province/territory. If you do not have this certification, you must have a valid job offer.

How does FSTP work within Express Entry?

The Federal Skilled Trades Program is part of Express Entry, meaning you must create a profile, receive a CRS score, and be selected in a round of invitation.

What if my CRS score is too low for Express Entry?

You can improve your chances by:

  • Getting a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) nomination (+600 CRS points)
  • Securing a job offer with LMIA (up to 200 CRS points)
  • Boosting your language scores for more CRS points

Is there an age limit for FSTP?

No, but age affects CRS scores in Express Entry – candidates aged 18-29 get maximum CRS points for age.

How long does FSTP processing take?

Once selected from Express Entry, the PR processing time is usually 6-8 months.

Do I need an educational credential assessment (ECA) for FSTP?

No, education is not required, but getting an ECA can increase your CRS score, improving your chances of selection.

How often are Federal Skilled Trades (FST) draws held in the Express Entry system?

Since FST applicants typically have lower CRS scores due to the program’s emphasis on skilled trades over formal education, IRCC conducts targeted FST draws less frequently compared to other Express Entry categories. Historically, there have been an average of two FST-specific draws per year, but this may vary depending on labor market needs and immigration targets.

Want to Immigrate as a Skilled Tradesperson? Let’s Make It Happen!

The FSTP offers a direct path to permanent residency, but securing an ITA under Express Entry requires a strong profile. Let’s ensure your work experience, job offer, and qualifications meet all requirements.

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