Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)

Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) created the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) to facilitate a channel for skilled trades workers to immigrate to Canada. This pathway comes under Canada’s Express Entry system.

Addressing Labor Shortages Through FSTP

The FSTP emerges as a crucial response to address labor shortages in various trades and occupations across Canada. With the nation grappling with demographic shifts and a declining birth rate, immigration plays a pivotal role in sustaining the country’s workforce and fostering economic growth.

Trade occupations are a 2026 Express Entry category-based draw priority. Under the 2026-2028 Immigration Levels Plan, trades workers are specifically targeted through category draws, giving FSTP-eligible candidates a stronger chance at receiving an ITA.

Navigating the Pathway: How FSTP Immigration Works

Embarking on your journey with the FSTP is a structured process facilitated through Canada’s Express Entry system. To participate in this program, one needs to fulfill the eligibility requirements or else meet the eligibility criteria for the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) or Canadian Experience Class (CEC) program.

Minimum Eligibility Requirements for FSTP Applicants

To be eligible for the FSTP, the candidate must meet the following requirements relating to language ability, work experience, and more.

The candidate must provide proof of basic language proficiency in four categories (writing, reading, listening, and speaking) in either French or English, meeting the following CLBs:

Note: A language test is valid for two years after the date of the test result. It must be valid when you apply for permanent residency.

Skilled Trade Work Experience

The FSTP classifies skilled trade occupations according to NOC groups, either TEER 2 or TEER 3 under the revised NOC 2021. Requirements include:

• Must have performed the primary duties described in the NOC description.
• Have an offer of employment in Canada.
• Occupation must be under TEER 2 or TEER 3 of the NOC.
• Wages and working conditions must be comparable to those available to Canadians in the same profession.
• Minimum 2 years of full-time or equivalent part-time work (3,120 hours) in a skilled trade within the last 5 years.
• Have valid job offer(s) of continuous, paid, full-time work from up to two employers (30 hours/week for 1 year); OR a certificate of qualification from a provincial or territorial body.

Education Requirements

There are no specific education requirements under the FSTP. However, to earn CRS points, candidates need a Canadian post-secondary certificate/diploma/degree, or a complete foreign credential with an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA).

Proof of Funds

To settle in Canada, candidates must demonstrate sufficient funds for themselves and their dependents. However, proof of funds is not required if you are currently able to legally work in Canada or have a valid job offer from a Canadian employer.

Proof of funds amounts were updated on July 7, 2025. See the Federal Skilled Worker Program page in this document for the updated table.

Benefits of Choosing FSTP: Your Pathway to Permanent Residency

Successful candidates under the Express Entry system through FSTP often secure their permanent residence status within six months. Trades occupations are a 2026 category-based draw priority, increasing your chances of receiving an ITA. IRCC also runs FSTP-specific draws, further improving selection opportunities for skilled tradespeople.

FAQs About Federal Skilled Trades Program