Federal Skilled Trades Program
The Federal Skilled Trades Program (FST) is for qualified skilled-trades workers seeking permanent residence. It usually requires a qualifying job offer or a certificate of qualification in the trade, along with skilled-trades experience and language ability, and is managed through Express Entry.
Who it's for
Qualified skilled-trades workers aiming for Canadian PR.
Key points
- ✓For eligible skilled trades (groups defined by IRCC)
- ✓Usually needs a qualifying offer or certificate of qualification
- ✓Requires skilled-trades experience and language testing
- ✓Applied for through Express Entry
How it works
- 1Confirm your trade is eligible and gather proof of experience
- 2Obtain a qualifying offer or certificate of qualification
- 3Take an approved language test and enter the pool
- 4Apply for PR after an Invitation to Apply
IRCC forms often used
How Lexova helps
Lexova gives the licensed professional one workspace to run the whole file — a bilingual client intake that autofills the IRCC forms this pathway uses, AI cover letters and document sorting, and shared client/employer portals with live progress. Less re-typing, fewer mismatches, nothing missed.
Frequently asked questions
Is a certificate of qualification always required?+
You generally need either a qualifying job offer or a certificate of qualification issued by a province/territory — one or the other. Check the current rules.
Where can I confirm the current requirements?+
FST eligibility and eligible trades are on Canada.ca (IRCC); confirm current criteria there.
Related pathways
This page is general information about Canadian immigration programs and is not legal or immigration advice. Rules, thresholds and timelines change often; always verify the current requirements on Canada.ca (IRCC / ESDC) or with a licensed professional (RCIC or lawyer). Lexova is not affiliated with the Government of Canada.