What is the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FST)?

Canada’s immigration programs, including Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), and Federal Skilled Trades Program (FST), provide applicants with the best possible immigration experience to Canada. Each of these methods has specific criteria to help you move to this country based on your circumstances. The Federal Skilled Trades Program (FST) plays a significant role in work immigration to Canada and is one of the popular models for obtaining permanent residency in Canada. In this article from ExpertUP, we want to introduce you to the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FST), another method of Canada’s Express Entry.
About the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FST)
The Federal Skilled Trades Program (FST) or “Federal Skilled Trades Program” is designed for individuals with specific professional skills who wish to immigrate to Canada. This program is usually aimed at people specialized in trades such as electrical and electronics industry, plumbing, carpentry, and building-related trades. So, if you can professionally engage in a job in one of the production, technical, and other sectors in Canada, this method is the most suitable option for you.
What are the steps to obtain the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FST)?
- Matching the specified conditions: First, make sure you meet the requirements of the FST program. These conditions include having skills and professional experience in specific fields required by the Canadian labor market.
- Language test: Some immigration programs to Canada require a language test. The FST program also usually accepts language tests such as IELTS, where you need to achieve a specific score.
- Register in Express Entry: The FST program is generally carried out through the Express Entry system, so you must first register in this system.
- Select the immigration application as a federal skilled worker: In the Express Entry system, you can choose the FST program as one of your options for immigration.
- Invitation: After finalizing the application, Canadian immigration authorities will review your information. If successful, you will receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
- Issuance of Visa: After receiving the invitation, you must submit your information and follow the final stages of your immigration, including obtaining a visa to immigrate to Canada.
What are the conditions for obtaining the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FST)?
- Professional experience: At least 2 years of professional experience in one or more of the announced job lists.
- Language test: Achieving the required score in one of the language tests with a minimum score of 5.
- Education: Higher education is not required for this type of immigration, but if you have studied in the desired job field, you will definitely receive more points.
- Medical health certificate: A valid medical certificate proving your mental and physical health.
- Canadian Visa validity: Ensure the validity of the immigration visa to Canada, which is usually issued after the final application and acceptance.
What jobs can use the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FST)?
Jobs accepted in this program are listed in the National Occupational Classification (NOC) with various codes. The main jobs in this program are primarily in the construction and building-related trades.
Some of the jobs accepted in the FST program include:
- Electricians: Those with professional experience in electrical projects.
- Carpenters: Those with carpentry and construction skills.
- Plumbers: Those with professional experience in plumbing and water and sewage systems.
- Automotive Service Technicians: Those specialized in vehicle maintenance and repair.
- Welders: Specialists with professional experience in welding, especially in the building sector.
- Painters and Decorators: Those with useful experience in interior painting and decoration.
- Construction Trades Helpers and Labourers: Those working as laborers on building construction projects.
Free Consultation for the Federal Skilled Trades Program with ExpertUP
If you wish to immigrate to Canada through the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FST), you need to be aware of all the details related to this method. Those considering this model for immigration to Canada usually have a specific skill that can contribute to Canada’s development. At ExpertUP, you will receive free, useful, and regular consultations step-by-step about obtaining a visa for permanent residency in Canada, and we are with you in all these stages to reach your destination country and start a new life. For a free consultation, you can contact our experienced lawyers at ExpertUP and get up-to-date and accurate information to achieve your goals as soon as possible.
