For those who dream of a life in Canada. This program is for people with work experience in skilled trades (work that is generally practical, technical) who wish to immigrate permanently.

The Federal Skilled Trades (FST) Program allows you to submit a profile to the Express Entry system where you can be nominated for permanent residence. This is the second Federal Express Entry program.

How do I know if I qualify?

  • You must have at least 2 years of full-time work (or the part-time equivalent) in the last 5 years in a skilled trade.
  • It must be paid work, volunteering does not count. The work can be in Canada or any other country.
  • A degree is not required, but is recommended to improve your chances of nomination for permanent residence.
  • There is a language requirement that requires you to have speaking and listening (CLB 5) and reading and writing (CLB 4) skills.
  • You must also have proof of funds to settle in Canada.

What kind of skilled trade experts does Canada want?

There are two categories of workers that Canada requires. Your experience may fall into one of the following:

Major groups

  • Industrial, electrical and construction trades
  • Maintenance and equipment operation trades
  • Supervisors and technical jobs in natural resources, agriculture and related production processing
  • Manufacturing and utilities supervisors and central control operators

Minor groups

  • Chefs and cooks
  • Butchers and bakers

If you qualify, you can submit a profile to the Express Entry system, which gives you the opportunity to be nominated for permanent residence.

Where can I live in Canada?

Anywhere except Quebec, where they have their own immigration programs.