Federal Skilled Trades Program (FST) - Express Entry Pathway | Sea Bird Canada Immigration Consultancy Inc.

About the Federal Skilled Trades (FST) Program

The Federal Skilled Trades Program (FST) is one of the three federal immigration programs managed through Express Entry. It’s designed for skilled tradespersons with experience in key sectors like construction, maintenance, manufacturing, and culinary trades who wish to become permanent residents of Canada.

Good to know: The FST pathway focuses on practical trade skills and real-world experience rather than education — making it ideal for workers with technical expertise.

FST Program Requirements

At least 2 years of full-time work experience (or equivalent part-time) in a skilled trade within the last 5 years.
Work experience must fall under eligible NOC trade groups listed below.
A valid full-time job offer of at least 1 year OR a certificate of qualification from a Canadian province/territory.
Meet minimum language levels – CLB 5 for speaking/listening and CLB 4 for reading/writing.
No minimum education requirement (optional for CRS points).
Plan to live outside Quebec.
Be admissible to Canada (no criminal or medical ineligibility).

Eligible Skilled Trade Occupation Groups

Major Group 72: Industrial, electrical & construction trades
Major Group 73: Maintenance & equipment operation trades
Major Group 82: Supervisors & technical jobs in natural resources, agriculture, and related production

Major Group 92: Processing, manufacturing & utilities supervisors and control operators
Minor Group 632: Chefs & cooks
Minor Group 633: Butchers & bakers

How to Apply (Step-by-Step)

1. Check Your Eligibility

Confirm your trade experience matches the eligible NOC groups and meets the 2-year experience rule.

2. Take Your Language Test

Book an approved English or French test and meet the CLB requirements.

3. Obtain Job Offer or Certification

Secure a 1-year job offer in your trade or get a certificate of qualification from a provincial trade authority.

4. Create Express Entry Profile

Enter all details into the Express Entry system to get your CRS score.

5. Receive ITA and Apply for PR

Once invited, submit your complete application with all required documents.

Frequently Asked Questions (FST)

Is there a minimum education requirement for FST?

No. Education is optional but can improve your CRS score if you provide an ECA.

Can I apply without a job offer?

Yes, if you hold a valid certificate of qualification from a province or territory in your skilled trade.

What’s the processing time for FST applications?

Typically 6 months after you submit your complete PR application.

Do apprenticeships count as experience?

Only if the work was paid, full-time (or equivalent), and within an eligible NOC group.

Can I include my spouse and children in my application?

Yes, you can include your spouse/common-law partner and dependent children in your PR application.

Ready to Start Your FST Application?

Let Sea Bird Canada Immigration help you achieve permanent residence through your trade skills.

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