The Federal Skilled Trades Program is designed for skilled workers who want to become permanent residents based on their qualifications in a skilled trade. Introduced in 2013, this program provides a dedicated immigration pathway for tradespeople. Since skilled trades workers are in high demand, this program plays a crucial role in addressing labor shortages across Canada.

Eligibility Requirements for the Federal Skilled Trades Program

To qualify for the Federal Skilled Trades Program Canada, applicants must meet the following criteria:

✔ Language Proficiency: Meet the required language levels for:

• Writing
• Reading
• Listening
• Speaking

✔ Work Experience: At least 2 years of full-time work experience (or an equivalent amount of part-time experience) in a skilled trade within the past 5 years.

✔ Paid Employment: Work experience must be paid employment (volunteer work or unpaid internships do not count).

✔ Job Requirements: Meet the job requirements for the skilled trade under the National Occupational Classification (NOC), except for needing a certificate of qualification.

✔ Employment Offer or Certification:

• A valid full-time job offer for at least one year, or
• A certificate of qualification in that skilled trade issued by a Canadian provincial, territorial, or federal authority.

Because of these requirements, candidates must ensure they meet the necessary qualifications before applying.

Skilled Trades Under the Federal Skilled Trades Program

The Federal Skilled Trade Program categorizes skilled trades into different groups under the National Occupational Classification (NOC)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 related production
✔ Major Group 92: Processing, manufacturing, and utilities supervisors and central control operators
✔ Minor Group 632: Chefs and cooks
✔ Minor Group 633: Butchers and bakers

These NOC groups consist of skill type B occupations, meaning they require specialized training but do not necessarily require a university degree.

How to Apply for the Canada Federal Skilled Worker Program

If you are wondering how to apply for Canada Federal Skilled Worker Program, follow these steps:

✔ Step 1: Check your eligibility based on work experience, language skills, and job requirements.
✔ Step 2: Get a certificate of qualification (if required) from a Canadian province or territory.
✔ Step 3: Obtain a valid job offer from a Canadian employer if you do not have certification.
✔ Step 4: Create an online profile under Express Entry and enter the Federal Skilled Trades Program Canada pool.
✔ Step 5: Wait for an Invitation to Apply (ITA) and submit your complete application within 60 days.

Since Express Entry manages this program, having a competitive Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score increases your chances of receiving an invitation.