Overview
The Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) is an Express Entry pathway for people in eligible skilled trades. To qualify, you must have either a valid job offer for at least 1 year or a Canadian certificate of qualification in your trade issued by a provincial/territorial/federal authority.
Who this program is for
FSTP may suit you if you:
- Work in an eligible skilled trade
- Can secure a qualifying job offer or obtain a certificate of qualification in Canada
Key requirements (high level)
A complete FSTP pathway typically includes:
- A valid job offer (total at least 1 year) or a certificate of qualification
- Meeting language and admissibility requirements (trade-route specific)
- Proof of funds if required (see note below)
- Creating an Express Entry profile and being competitive in the pool
Proof of funds note
FSTP applicants generally need proof of funds unless exempt (e.g., authorized to work in Canada and holding a valid job offer).
Typical supporting documents (examples)
- Job offer documents (if qualifying through offer)
- Certificate of qualification (if qualifying through certification)
- Trade experience evidence (letters, duties, pay proof)
- Language test results
- Proof of funds (if required)
- Identity/civil documents + PR-stage police/medical when requested
How we support you
- Confirm the correct eligibility route (job offer vs certificate)
- Help structure trade experience evidence so it matches your claim
- Checklist + submission-ready file review for Express Entry and PR stage