In a significant move to attract more skilled tradespeople from around the world, the Government of Canada has updated the eligibility criteria for the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)—one of the three major immigration streams under the Express Entry system. The revised terms, now active as of March 2025, aim to streamline the process and align Canada’s immigration strategy with its labor market needs.
If you are a tradesperson with hands-on expertise and looking to immigrate to Canada permanently, these updates are crucial for determining your eligibility.
🔧 What is the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)?
The FSTP is a dedicated immigration pathway for individuals with experience in skilled trades who wish to gain permanent residency in Canada. Unlike programs focused on academic qualifications or white-collar professions, the FSTP opens doors for tradespeople—like electricians, plumbers, and truck drivers—whose practical experience is in high demand across Canadian provinces.
🔄 New March 2025 Updates to FSTP Eligibility Terms
As of February–March 2025, IRCC has officially revised the eligibility requirements under the FSTP. Here’s what’s new:
1️⃣ Eligible Skilled Trade Sectors
To qualify, your work experience must fall under one of these in-demand sectors:
- Construction (e.g., carpenters, welders, plumbers, electricians)
- Transportation (e.g., heavy truck drivers, diesel mechanics)
- Manufacturing & Industrial (e.g., machine operators, tool and die makers)
- Natural Resources & Agriculture (e.g., oil & gas trades, forestry workers)
2️⃣ Work Experience Requirements
Applicants must:
- Have at least 2 years of full-time experience (or 3,120 hours total) in a skilled trade in the last 5 years
- Be paid for their work (volunteer work is not eligible)
- Perform duties listed under these NOC groups:
- Major Groups: 72, 73, 82, 83, 92, 93 (excluding 726 and 932)
- Minor Group: 6320
- Unit Group: 62200
- Have been qualified and authorized to work in the country where they gained experience
- If working in multiple countries, must be legally authorized to work in each
3️⃣ Job Offer or Certificate of Qualification
Applicants must have either:
- A valid, full-time job offer for at least one year from a Canadian employer
- OR a certificate of qualification issued by a Canadian province, territory, or federal authority
📌 Tip: Each province and territory has its own certification process. In some cases, you may need to travel to Canada for an assessment or training.
Check your province’s requirements here:
👉 Canada Trade Certification Authorities by Province
4️⃣ Language Ability
You must:
- Take an approved English or French language test
- Meet the minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) scores in:
- Reading
- Writing
- Listening
- Speaking
5️⃣ Education
There’s no mandatory education requirement, but an educational credential (especially one evaluated by ECA – Educational Credential Assessment) can significantly boost your Express Entry CRS score.
6️⃣ Proof of Funds
Unless you are already working legally in Canada and have a valid job offer, you must prove you have sufficient funds to support yourself and your family after arrival.
7️⃣ Admissibility
Applicants must:
- Pass medical and criminal background checks
- Not pose security risks or carry inadmissible health conditions
8️⃣ Residency Intentions
FSTP applicants must intend to live outside Quebec.
🗺️ Note: If nominated by a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), you must reside in that particular province or territory.
✅ How to Apply Under the FSTP in 2025
Here’s your step-by-step guide:
-
Check Eligibility
Use the official checker: Canada FSTP Eligibility Tool -
Get Certified or Secure a Job Offer
- Apply for a certificate of qualification OR
- Get a job offer from a Canadian employer
-
Take a Language Test
Register for an IRCC-approved English or French language exam -
Prepare Proof of Funds
Bank statements and financial documents to prove settlement funds -
Submit Express Entry Profile
Create an Express Entry profile and choose FSTP as your immigration stream -
Wait for Invitation to Apply (ITA)
If selected, you will receive an ITA to submit a PR application within 60 days
📅 What’s Next?
The updates reflect Canada’s continued efforts to welcome skilled trades professionals who can immediately fill labor shortages. Whether you’re a welder in the Philippines, a truck driver in Nigeria, or a machine operator in India—this could be your ticket to Canadian permanent residency.
🔗 Useful Link
Check full eligibility and start your application:
👉 https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/immigrate-canada/express-entry/who-can-apply/federal-skilled-trades.html.
