Federal Skilled Trades
The Federal Skilled Trades (FST) program is a prescribed class for candidates who may become permanent residents based on their ability to become economically established in Canada as workers in a skilled occupation. FST is one of the three federal programs managed through the Express Entry system.
Who is Eligible for the FST?
You may be eligible for the Federal Skills Trade program if you have full time work experience in a skilled trade for at least 2 years obtained within the last 5 years.
Your work experience must be certified by a province or an authorized agency in Canada before you can practice your trade or have an offer of employment for your trade.
The following occupation examples are considered skilled trade
- Industrial, electrical and construction trades
- Maintenance and equipment operations
- Transport and heavy equipment operations trade
- Installers, repairers, servicers, and material handlers
- Processing, manufacturing and utilities supervisors and central control operators
- Language proficiency—Canadian Level Benchmark CLB 5 for speaking and listening, CLB 4 for reading and writing.
- Work experience- at least 2 years of work experience in the past 5 years
- Employment requirements—including trade certification by a provincial authority or Canadian work experience
- Education (not necessarily a requirement, however, it may increase your points under EE)
Why is Trade Certification Important?
Trade Certification demonstrates that an individual is qualified to work in a specific skilled trade in Canada. This means they have passed a certification exam and meet all the requirements to practice in a specific province.
Do you have any questions regarding the FST program? Or questions relating to your eligibility? We are here to help you.
Complete our FREE Online Assessment or Contact us to find out if you are eligible for Express Entry.
