Federal Skilled Worker Program
The Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSW) selects skilled workers with foreign work experience for permanent residence. Eligibility is points-based — covering education, skilled work experience, language ability and age — and candidates apply through Express Entry.
Who it's for
Skilled workers with foreign work experience aiming for Canadian PR.
Key points
- ✓Points-based selection grid (with a pass mark)
- ✓Counts skilled foreign work experience
- ✓Requires language testing and an education assessment (ECA) where applicable
- ✓Applied for through Express Entry
How it works
- 1Take an approved language test and (if needed) get an ECA
- 2Confirm you meet the FSW selection-grid pass mark
- 3Enter the Express Entry 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
Do I need a job offer for FSW?+
A job offer is not mandatory for FSW, though it can add points. Foreign skilled work experience and the selection-grid pass mark are central.
Where can I confirm the current requirements?+
FSW eligibility and the selection grid are on Canada.ca (IRCC); confirm the current pass mark and 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.