Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)

The Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) is a Canadian immigration pathway designed for skilled workers in trade occupations who want to obtain permanent residency (PR) through the Express Entry system.

This program is ideal for individuals with hands-on technical and trade experience.

Overview

The FSTP was introduced to address labor shortages in skilled trade occupations across Canada.

It is one of the three main programs under Express Entry, alongside the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) and Canadian Experience Class (CEC).

Benefits of the FSTP

• Direct pathway to permanent residency
• Lower CRS score requirements compared to other programs
• High demand for skilled trade workers in Canada
• Faster processing (around 6 months after ITA)
• Additional CRS points for Canadian work experience

How the Process Works

1. Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet FSTP requirements
2. Language Test: Take IELTS or equivalent test
3. Create Express Entry Profile: Submit your profile
4. Receive CRS Score: Based on your qualifications
5. Invitation to Apply (ITA): Selected candidates receive invitations
6. Submit PR Application: Apply for permanent residency

Express Entry draws are usually held every two weeks.

Eligibility Criteria

• Minimum 2 years of full-time work experience (or equivalent part-time) in a skilled trade within the last 5 years
• Valid job offer for at least 1 year OR a certificate of qualification from a Canadian authority
• Language requirements:
  • CLB 5 for speaking and listening
  • CLB 4 for reading and writing
• Meet health and character requirements
• Plan to live outside Quebec

Eligible Trade Occupations (NOC Categories)

• Major Group 72: Industrial, electrical, and construction trades
• Major Group 73: Maintenance and equipment operation trades
• Major Group 82: Supervisors and technical jobs in natural resources, agriculture, and production
• Major Group 92: Processing, manufacturing, and utilities supervisors and operators
• Minor Group 632: Chefs and cooks
• Minor Group 633: Butchers and bakers

Note: Applicants must intend to live outside Quebec, as Quebec has its own immigration programs.

Getting Your Visa

Our company, Manna Salwa Tourism and Migration Service, provides full support including eligibility assessment, Express Entry profile setup, documentation, and visa processing assistance.

Government Fees and Processing Time

* All fees and processing times are based on official government sources.