What is the Federal Skilled Trades Program?

The FSTP is part of Canada’s Express Entry system, designed for skilled tradespeople with qualifications and work experience in specific occupations to contribute to Canada’s growing economy.

Eligibility Criteria

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

• Work Experience: At least 2 years of full-time work experience (or equivalent part-time) in a skilled trade within the last 5 years.
• Job Offer or Certification: Provide either:
  • A valid job offer for at least 1 year from a Canadian employer, OR
  • A certificate of qualification in your trade issued by a Canadian provincial, territorial, or federal authority.
• Language Proficiency: Meet the minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) requirements:
  • CLB 5 in speaking and listening
  • CLB 4 in reading and writing
  Prove proficiency through an approved test such as IELTS or TEF.
• Admissibility: Pass medical and security checks to ensure you’re admissible to Canada.
• Proof of Funds: Demonstrate sufficient funds to support yourself and your family, unless you have a valid job offer or are already working in Canada.

Eligible Skilled Trades

The FSTP is open to skilled trades in specific groups under the National Occupational Classification (NOC) system:

• Industrial, electrical, and construction trades
• Maintenance and equipment operation trades
• Supervisors and technical jobs in natural resources, agriculture, and related production
• Processing, manufacturing, and utility supervisors, as well as central control operators
• Chefs, cooks, butchers, and bakers