Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)

Immigrate to Canada through the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)

Qualified trade workers worldwide can use the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) to secure permanent residency in Canada. Introduced in 2013, the FSTP aligns with the Express Entry system, providing a streamlined pathway for skilled tradespersons to immigrate. With the guidance of an experienced immigration consultant, the application process can be straightforward and efficient.

The FSTP addresses Canada’s labor shortages in trade occupations, supporting economic growth while compensating for the country’s aging population and declining birth rates. This program offers numerous benefits for immigrants:

Key Benefits of the FSTP

• • Faster Permanent Residency: Through Express Entry, FSTP applicants can achieve permanent residency within six months.

• • Simplified Requirements: FSTP applicants don’t need to prove education credentials and can benefit from exclusive draws designed for their profile.

• • Boosted CRS with PNP Nomination: A Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) nomination can add 600 points to your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, significantly enhancing your chances.

• • Leverage Canadian Work Experience: Canadian work experience earns extra CRS points, increasing competitiveness in the labor market.

• • Competitive Advantage: Knowledge of the Canadian labor market, work experience, and connections give FSTP applicants an edge in the Express Entry system.

Eligibility Requirements for the FSTP

To qualify, applicants must meet the following criteria:

1. 1. Job Offers or Certification: Hold up to two valid one-year job offers from Canadian employers or possess a certificate of qualification issued by a Canadian provincial or territorial authority.

1. 1. Language Proficiency: Prove proficiency in English or French through approved language testing organizations as per IRCC guidelines.

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

1. 1. NOC Skill Categories: Ensure your skilled trade is listed under the National Occupational Classification (NOC) for eligible trades.

Education and Provincial Nominee Options

While FSTP has no formal education requirements, you can improve your CRS score by:

• • Obtaining an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) to show equivalence to Canadian educational standards.

Additionally, provinces like Ontario offer specific pathways, such as the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) for skilled trade workers.

Steps to Apply for FSTP

Follow these steps to maximize your success:

1. 1. Demonstrate Work Experience: Ensure you meet the minimum requirement of two years of skilled work experience.

1. 1. Prove Language Skills: Provide valid language test results to demonstrate proficiency.

1. 1. Create an Express Entry Profile: Use the IRCC portal to create your profile. Seek expert guidance to avoid errors.

1. 1. Enhance Your CRS Score: Proactively improve your CRS score through additional work experience, language skills, or a PNP nomination.

1. 1. Submit Your e-APR: Complete and submit an electronic Application for Permanent Residence, including background checks and police verification.

At Cascadia Immigration Services , we help you complete your Express Entry profile and other required applications, ensuring a seamless path to permanent residency. Contact us to learn more about enhancing your CRS score and achieving a successful application outcome.