Federal Skilled Trade

Federal Skilled Trade

Federal Skilled Trades Class (FSWC)

Skilled tradespeople from around the world have the opportunity to use the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) for achieving permanent immigration to Canada. The FSTP is integrated with the Express Entry selection system, simplifying the immigration process for individuals in trade occupations. Established in 2013, it stands as the sole specialized immigration route for skilled trade professionals. Seeking guidance from a knowledgeable immigration consultant can streamline the FSTP application process.

Advantages of the Federal Skilled Trades Class

The FSTP addresses labour shortages in trade occupations, supporting Canada’s economic growth. Furthermore, the ageing population and declining birth rates have led to a shortage of skilled labour in these fields, prompting the introduction of the FSTP, which offers several benefits to immigrants.
  • Expedited Path to Permanent Residency: FSTP applicants can secure permanent residency in a quick six-month timeframe through the Express Entry selection process.
  • Improved Prospects in Express Entry: FSTP applicants are exempt from validating their education, and they can participate in exclusive draws tailored for FSTP candidates.
  • CRS Boost via PNP Nomination: Obtaining a provincial nomination can significantly boost your CRS score by an impressive 600 points.
  • Benefits of Canadian Work Experience: Having Canadian work experience can earn you additional Comprehensive Ranking System points from Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), positioning you favorably in the Canadian job market.
  • Competitive Edge: Express Entry is a highly competitive system, and having Canadian work experience, connections, and insights enhances your competitiveness when applying for the FSTP through Express Entry.

Requirements for the Federal Skilled Trades Class

The following are the fundamental conditions for eligibility in the FSTP:
  • Securing Up to Two Valid Job Offers: You can achieve this by either obtaining two job offers from Canadian employers for a one-year period or by holding a certificate of qualification from a territorial or provincial body.
  • Proving Language Proficiency: Provide evidence of language skills that meet the minimum standards set by IRCC. This evidence should come from a designated Language Testing organisation.
  • Two Years of Work Experience: Possess two years of full-time or equivalent part-time work experience within five years preceding the application date.
  • Demonstrating Adequate Skill Levels: Display skill levels that align with the essential duties of the occupation.
  • Skilled Work Experience in Designated NOC Categories: The candidate's skilled work experience must fall within specific categories of the National Occupation Classification (NOC). It's crucial to confirm that your trade is included in the list of these occupation categories before initiating your application.

Eligible Trades for the Federal Skilled Trades Class

The FSTC recognizes skilled work experience as eligible within the following categories of the National Occupational Classification (NOC):

Group 72 – Industrial, Electrical, and Construction Trades

Group 73 – Maintenance and Equipment Operation Trades

Group 82 – Supervisors and Technical Jobs in Natural Resources, Agriculture, and Related Production

Group 92 – Processing, Manufacturing, and Utilities Supervisors and Central Control Operators

Group 632 – Chefs and Cooks

Group 633 – Butchers and Bakers

Certain provinces, such as Ontario, offer specific programs like the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program tailored for individuals choosing Ontario as their destination under the Skilled Trade category.

While this program does not require an education prerequisite, to earn education-related points in Express Entry, an applicant can satisfy the requirement through either of the following:

  • Possessing a certificate, diploma, or academic credential from a Canadian educational institution; or
  • Holding an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) issued by a designated organisation, confirming that your education is equivalent to a completed certificate, diploma, or degree from a Canadian secondary or post-secondary institution.

Application Procedure for the Federal Skilled Trades Class

Individuals eligible for the Federal Skilled Trades Program must utilise the Express Entry selection process to secure an Invitation to Apply. It is advisable to engage with Nexus Migration experts for the creation or assessment of your Express Entry profile. Here are the essential steps to consider:
  1. Ensure you can substantiate a minimum of two years of relevant work experience. If you fall short, consider enhancing your work experience profile.
  2. Your skilled trade must align with the list of recognized occupations by IRCC to qualify under FSTP.
  3. Have valid proofs of language test results showcasing your language proficiency.
  4. Having neither a valid job offer nor a provincial certificate may render you ineligible for FSTP application.
  5. Create an Express Entry profile through the IRCC web portal. Seek assistance from an experienced immigration counselor to complete this crucial step meticulously.
  6. Take proactive measures to elevate your CRS score if you believe it might be below the required threshold.
  7. Receive an Invitation to Apply.
  8. Submit an electronic Application for Permanent Residence (e-APR) by fulfilling background checks and police verifications.
  9. Immigration authorities review your e-APR.
  10. Processing and issuance of Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) to the candidate.
  11. Receive your Permanent Resident card upon arrival at the Port of Entry.

For completing the Express Entry profile and other essential applications to acquire permanent residence status, you can rely on Nexus Migration. Nexus Migration is the go-to destination for all your Canada immigration needs. Our ICCRC registered immigration consultants in Dubai offer expert guidance, making us the leading immigration consultancy in Dubai. Choose us as your migration consultant in Dubai for Canada, and let us help you realise your dream of Canadian permanent residency.

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