The Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) is a crucial component of Canada’s Express Entry system, specifically catering to individuals with skilled trade expertise. This program addresses the country’s labor market needs by providing a streamlined pathway for skilled tradespeople to obtain Canadian permanent residence.
Eligibility Requirements
Skilled Trade Work Experience
To be eligible for the FSTP, candidates must have skilled trade work experience in a qualifying occupation. This experience should be full-time or equivalent part-time work for at least two years within the last five years. This requirement ensures that candidates have recent, relevant experience in their trade.
Job Offer or Certificate of Qualification
Candidates must have either a valid job offer of at least one year from a Canadian employer or a certificate of qualification in a skilled trade issued by a Canadian provincial or territorial authority. This requirement helps ensure that candidates have the necessary skills and job prospects in Canada.
Qualifying Occupations
NOC Skill Level B Occupations
The FSTP is designed for occupations classified under the National Occupational Classification (NOC) skill level B. These jobs typically require formal training or an apprenticeship, reflecting the specialized skills needed in these trades.
Examples of Qualifying Trades
Examples of qualifying trades under the FSTP include electricians, welders, plumbers, and industrial mechanics. These trades are essential to Canada’s economy, and the FSTP helps ensure that skilled workers in these fields can contribute to the labor market.
Job Offer or Certificate of Qualification
Valid Job Offer
A valid job offer for at least one year from a Canadian employer is a key requirement for the FSTP. This offer demonstrates that there is a demand for your skills in Canada, and it can significantly boost your chances of obtaining permanent residence.
Certificate of Qualification
Alternatively, candidates can provide a certificate of qualification in a skilled trade issued by a Canadian provincial or territorial authority. This certificate verifies that you have met the necessary standards to practice your trade in Canada.
Language Proficiency
Proficiency in English or French
Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in English or French through approved language tests. Meeting the minimum language scores is essential to ensure effective communication and integration into Canadian society.
Approved Language Tests
Language proficiency is assessed using tests such as the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) or the Test d’évaluation de français (TEF). Achieving the required scores is crucial for eligibility.
Admissibility
Health and Security Standards
To be admissible to Canada, candidates must meet the country’s health and security standards. This includes undergoing medical examinations and background checks to ensure you do not pose a risk to Canadian society.
Express Entry System
Meeting Express Entry Requirements
FSTP candidates must also meet the eligibility requirements for the Express Entry system. This includes creating an Express Entry profile and entering the pool of candidates.
Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS)
The Express Entry system uses a points-based Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) to evaluate candidates. Points are awarded based on factors such as age, education, work experience, and language proficiency. The highest-ranking candidates receive invitations to apply for permanent residence.
How to Apply for PR through the Federal Skilled Trades Program
The application process for the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) under the Express Entry system is straightforward, with detailed instructions provided by the Canadian government. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you understand the process:
1. Obtain a Canadian Trades Job Offer or Certificate of Qualification
To qualify for the FSTP, you must have either a full-time job offer in Canada or a certificate of qualification from a federal or provincial/territorial authority, depending on your trade. You can search for jobs in Canada using job portals like Monster, Indeed, LinkedIn, or Glassdoor, or connect with other trades professionals to explore opportunities in your field.
The requirements for obtaining a certificate of qualification vary by trade and province/territory. Generally, tradespeople with foreign experience must pass a qualifying exam and complete an apprenticeship or Trade Equivalency Assessment. For example, in Ontario, you can obtain certification through Skilled Trades Ontario, while in British Columbia, the regulator is Skilled Trades B.C.
2. Verify Your Eligibility for Express Entry
Before you start your application, ensure you are eligible for Express Entry by using the government’s eligibility questionnaire. You’ll need to answer questions about your nationality, language skills, age, work experience, education, and other factors. The tool will inform you of the Express Entry programs you qualify for and generate a personal reference number to help pre-fill parts of your Express Entry profile.
3. Create an IRCC Account and Express Entry Profile
If you are eligible for the FSTP, create an account on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website. Next, create your Express Entry profile for the Federal Skilled Trades Program. Before doing so, take an approved language test and gather necessary documents, such as your passport and National Occupational Classification (NOC) codes.
In your Express Entry profile, provide information on your work experience, education, language test scores, age, preferred provinces, and other details.
4. Submit Your Profile and Enter the Express Entry Pool
After completing your Express Entry profile, submit it to enter the candidate pool. Your profile will be active for up to one year or until you receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency. Keep your profile updated and ensure all information is accurate.
The system will automatically calculate your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score based on the information you provided and rank your profile accordingly.
5. Wait for an Invitation to Apply (ITA)
The Canadian government conducts regular draws (typically every two weeks) to determine the minimum CRS score cut-off for Express Entry programs. Candidates whose CRS scores meet the cut-off are invited to apply for permanent residency.
Monitor the Federal Skilled Trades Program draw results on the government website. If your score meets the latest cut-off, you will receive an ITA in your IRCC profile along with email notification.
6. Submit Your Permanent Residence (PR) Application
Upon receiving an ITA, you have 60 days to submit your PR application or reject the ITA. You’ll need to provide various documents, including your language test results, Educational Credential Assessment (ECA), Canadian job offer or certificate of qualification, and employment letters from previous employers. Additional documentation, such as proof of settlement funds and police certificates, may also be required.
Pay the application fee, which includes the processing fee, right of permanent residence fee, and biometrics fee, before submitting your PR application.
7. Receive Confirmation of Permanent Residence (CoPR)
After your application is received, the IRCC will review your documents and ensure the application is complete. You’ll receive an acknowledgment or instructions to submit additional documentation if needed. You may be required to undergo a medical exam at an authorized healthcare center before your application is approved.
Once approved, you will receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (CoPR) along with instructions on the next steps. You may need to submit your biometrics (unless previously submitted for a Canadian visa within the last 10 years). If a visa is required for travel to Canada, you will need to submit your passport to get an immigrant visa stamp.
FAQs
How often are Express Entry draws held?
Express Entry draws typically occur every two weeks. During these draws, candidates with the highest CRS scores are invited to apply for permanent residence.
Can I improve my CRS score after submitting my profile?
Yes, you can improve your CRS score by enhancing your language proficiency, gaining more work experience, or obtaining additional education. Updating your profile with new information can increase your chances of receiving an invitation to apply (ITA).
What happens if I don’t receive an ITA?
If you don’t receive an ITA, your profile will remain in the Express Entry pool for 12 months. You can continue to improve your CRS score during this time. If you still don’t receive an ITA within 12 months, you can create a new profile and re-enter the pool.
How can VisaWorks Canada Ltd. assist me with the Federal Skilled Trades Program?
VisaWorks Canada Ltd. offers expert visa services and comprehensive guidance on permanent residency, study visas, and business ventures in Canada. We help you navigate every step of the FSTP process, from assessing eligibility to submitting your application. Contact us now for personalized assistance.
