Federal Skilled Trades

Federal Skilled Trades

Federal Skilled Trades

The Federal Skilled Trades (FST) Program is a dedicated Canadian immigration pathway for skilled trade professionals who want to become permanent residents of Canada. Managed under the Express Entry system, the FST program addresses Canada’s need for experienced workers in various skilled trades, providing a fast-track option for professionals in these fields.

Who is the FST Program for?

The FST program is designed for individuals with at least 2 years of full-time work experience in a qualifying skilled trade within the last 5 years. It is ideal for trade professionals such as electricians, plumbers, welders, cooks, bakers, butchers, and more, including those currently working in or outside of Canada.

Key Eligibility Criteria

  • Skilled Trade Experience: Minimum 2 years of full-time work experience in a skilled trade within the last 5 years.

  • Language Proficiency: Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 5 for speaking and listening, CLB 4 for reading and writing.

  • Job Offer or Certification: A valid job offer of full-time employment in Canada for at least 1 year OR a certificate of qualification in your skilled trade issued by a Canadian province or territory.

  • Plan to Settle Outside Quebec: The program does not apply to the province of Quebec.

  • Other Requirements: Meet admissibility to Canada (medical and police certificates) and show proof of funds (unless currently working in Canada or with a valid job offer).

 

Eligible Occupations

Eligible skilled trades include, but are not limited to:

Industrial, electrical, and construction trades (NOC Major Group 72)

Maintenance and equipment operation trades (NOC Major Group 73)

Supervisors and technical jobs in natural resources, agriculture, and related production (NOC Major Group 82)

Processing, manufacturing, and utilities supervisors and control operators (NOC Major Group 92)

Chefs and cooks, butchers and bakers (NOC Minor Groups 632 & 633)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

The FST Program is a Canadian immigration pathway for skilled trade professionals who wish to become permanent residents of Canada through Express Entry.