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Federal Skilled Worker Program

Understanding the Federal Skilled Worker Program

The Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) allows Canada to recruit skilled employees from around the world who can contribute to its economy and society. Also, the program is one of the three economic immigration programs run by the Express Entry system

Eligibility Check – Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)

Here’s everything you need to know under FSWP eligibility requirements to be eligible for this esteemed pathway.

  • Must possess at least one year of continuous full-time (or equivalent part-time) skilled work experience in a National Occupational Classification (NOC) category of TEER Level 0, 1, 2, or 3.
  • Show your language proficiency skills in either French or English.
  • Must have a Canadian secondary or post-secondary certificate, diploma, or degree, or a foreign credential that has been assessed and deemed equivalent by a designated organization in Canada.
  • Demonstrate that you have enough financial resources to support yourself and any accompanying family members upon your arrival in Canada.

Minimum Eligibility Requirements for (FSW) Program Applicants:

A candidate must meet certain minimum requirements regarding years of work experience, education level, age, and English or French language proficiency to qualify for the FSWP.

If an applicant meets all the minimum requirements, then the application is assessed on:

  • Age
  • Education
  • Work Experience
  • A valid job offer
  • English and/or French language skills
  • Adaptability

Each of these 6 factors contributes to a 100-point grid used to assess eligibility for the Federal Skilled Worker Program. The current qualifying score is 67 points.

The selection factor points are used to assess your eligibility for the Federal Skilled Worker Program.

Once the applicant is in the Express Entry pool, a different system is utilized to rank the profile. The highest-ranking candidates are shortlisted from the pool and invited to apply for permanent residence.

An Overview of the Minimum Requirements

Skilled Work Experience:

Working in one of these categories of National Occupational Classification (NOC) TEER qualifies you as skilled work experience:

  • TEER 0
  • TEER 1
  • TEER 2

The applicant needs to demonstrate that they had performed all the essential duties and the majority of the main duties listed in the occupational description of the primary occupation while working in it.

Skilled Work Experience Must be:

  • The primary occupation should be the same (have the same NOC) as the job one wishes to use for the immigration application.
  • Within the last 10 years
  • Work that was paid (wages or commissions earned; unpaid internships or volunteer work do not count)
  • Minimum 1 year of continuous work or 1,560 hours total (30 hours per week)—one can meet this in a few different ways:
  • Full-time at 1 job: 30 hours/week for 12 months = 1 year full-time (1,560 hours)
  • Equal amount in part-time work: for example, 15 hours/week for 24 month1-year full-time (1,560 hours)
  • One can work as many part-time jobs as needed to meet this requirement
  • Full-time at more than 1 job: 30 hours/week for 12 months at more than 1 job = 1-year full-time (1,560 hours)

Part-Time Work Experience

One cannot count volunteer or unpaid internship work as skilled work experience. Skills must be related to the paid work, including wages and commissions.

If one works part-time, one can work more or less than 15 hours/week as long as it adds up to 1,560 hours.

Over 30 hours per week are not counted.

Related Links:
Federal Skilled Trades Program
Canadian Experience Class
Express Entry Process
Documents for Express Entry
Submit an Express Entry profile: Online form
Apply for permanent residence: Express Entry
If your Express Entry application is approved
Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) for Express Entry
Express Entry Invitation to Apply explained

Student Work Experience

While studying, one may be able to count work experience towards the minimum requirements if the work was:

  • Was paid by wages or commissions
  • Continuous (no gaps in employment), and
  • Meets all the other requirements of the Program

Language Ability

To qualify, candidates must:

  • Take approved language tests in English or French for writing, reading, listening, and speaking
  • Get a minimum score of Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 7 in all 4 abilities
  • Enter the test results in your Express Entry profile

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.

Education

The following is required if you have done schooling in Canada:

  • Secondary institution (high school) or
  • Post-secondary institution

Foreign Education Requires the Following:

  • A completed credential, and
  • An Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) for immigration purposes from a designated organization showing that your education is equal to a completed certificate, diploma, or degree from a Canadian:
  • Secondary institution (high school) or
  • Post-secondary institution

Proof of Funds

To settle in Canada, one must demonstrate that they have enough funds to support themselves in Canada, unless:

  • currently able to legally work in Canada
  • have a valid job offer from a Canadian employer

Step-by-Step Application Process of FSWP

Step 1: Eligibility Assessment

Our team of experienced immigration experts will meticulously assess your eligibility for the FSWP. We will review your work experience, language proficiency, educational background, and financial standing to ensure you meet all the necessary criteria.

Step 2: Build Your Express Entry Profile

Our team will work closely with you to create a compelling Express Entry profile, optimizing your CRS score for better chances of receiving an ITA.

Step 3: Receiving ITA and Submitting Your Application

Upon receiving an ITA, gather all necessary documents and submit a complete application within the given timeframe.

Step 4: Medical and Security Clearances

In this step, you and your family members will undergo medical exams and security checks to meet Canadian requirements.

Step 5: Embracing Permanent Residency

After successful approval, you’ll receive a COPR, marking the beginning of your journey as a permanent resident of Canada.

Key Benefits of the FSWP

  • Open to a Wide Range of Occupations
  • Permanent Residency
  • Pathway to Canadian Citizenship
  • Access to Social Services
  • Employment Opportunities

Why Choose ImmigCanada?

At ImmigCanada, we pride ourselves on being experts in Canadian immigration law and procedures. Our team of highly skilled and experienced professionals is committed to providing personalized and comprehensive support to every client. Reach out to us for any immigration support!