Federal Skilled Trades Program
Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
The Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) is an immigration pathway in Canada designed for skilled tradespeople who wish to become permanent residents. The FSTP is one of the three economic immigration programs managed through the Express Entry system, along with the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) and the Canadian Experience Class (CEC).
Here's a detailed explanation of the Federal Skilled Trades Program:
- 1. Eligibility Requirements for Federal Skilled Trades Program
To be eligible for the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) in Canada, you must meet the following requirements:
- Work Experience:
You must have at least two years of full-time work experience (or equivalent part-time work) in a skilled trade occupation within the five years before applying. Your work experience must be in a skilled trade that falls under Skill Level B of the National Occupational Classification (NOC) system.
- Job Offer or Certificate of Qualification:
You need to have either a valid job offer of full-time employment in Canada for at least one year OR a certificate of qualification in the skilled trade issued by a Canadian provincial or territorial authority. The job offer must be from an eligible Canadian employer.
- Language Proficiency:
You must demonstrate proficiency in English or French, the two official languages of Canada. You need to take a designated language test (such as IELTS, CELPIP, or TEF) and meet the minimum language requirements. The test results must be less than two years old at the time of application.
- Trade Qualification:
You must possess the necessary qualifications and certificates for the skilled trade occupation you are applying under. The specific trade qualifications vary depending on the province or territory where you plan to work. Each province or territory has its own regulatory authority responsible for assessing trade qualifications.
- Admissibility:
You and your accompanying family members must be admissible to Canada. This means you must meet the health and security requirements set by the Canadian government. You may need to undergo medical examinations and obtain police certificates to demonstrate your admissibility.
- 2. How to Immigrate to Canada through the FSTP?
To immigrate to Canada through the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), you need to follow a series of steps. Here is an overview of the process:
- Determine Eligibility:
Review the eligibility requirements for the FSTP to ensure you meet the criteria. This includes having at least two years of work experience in a skilled trade occupation, a valid job offer or certificate of qualification, language proficiency, trade qualification, and meeting the admissibility requirements.
- Language Proficiency:
Take a designated language test (IELTS, CELPIP, or TEF) to demonstrate your proficiency in English or French. Achieve the minimum language scores required for each language skill (speaking, listening, reading, and writing).
- Obtain a Job Offer or Certificate of Qualification:
Secure a valid job offer from a Canadian employer for at least one year, or obtain a certificate of qualification in your skilled trade issued by a Canadian provincial or territorial authority. Ensure the job offer or certificate meets the requirements of the FSTP.
- Create an Express Entry Profile:
Create an online profile through the Express Entry system, which includes providing information about your work experience, education, language proficiency, and other relevant details. Your profile will be assigned a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score based on various factors.
- Enter the Express Entry Pool:
Once your profile is complete, enter the Express Entry pool. Your CRS score will determine your rank among other candidates. Higher CRS scores have a better chance of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency.
- Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA):
If you meet the minimum CRS score requirements in a draw conducted by the Canadian government, you will receive an ITA. This invitation allows you to apply for permanent residency through the FSTP.
- Submit the Application:
Within the specified timeframe (usually 60 days), gather all the required documents, including forms, supporting documents, fees, and police clearances. Complete and submit your application for permanent residency through the FSTP.
- Application Processing:
Once your application is submitted, it will be processed by Canadian immigration authorities. This may involve background checks, verification of documents, and assessment of eligibility.
- Medical and Security Checks:
Undergo medical examinations to meet the health requirements for immigration to Canada. Provide police certificates from each country you have resided in for a certain period to demonstrate your admissibility.
- Confirmation of Permanent Residency (COPR):
If your application is approved, you will receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residency (COPR) along with a permanent resident visa (if applicable). This allows you to travel to Canada and become a permanent resident.