Canada Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) 2025 – Complete Guide for PR
The Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) is one of Canada’s top immigration pathways designed for foreign nationals with experience in skilled trade occupations. If you’re a welder, plumber, carpenter, or mechanic and want to move to Canada in 2025, this guide will walk you through the process of getting permanent residency (PR) through Express Entry.
What Is the Federal Skilled Trades Program?
The FSTP is part of the Express Entry system and is tailored to people who have work experience in specific skilled trades under Canada’s National Occupation Classification (NOC). Unlike the Federal Skilled Worker Program, FSTP applicants are not required to have high educational qualifications. The focus is on hands-on work experience and trade certifications.
Eligibility Criteria for FSTP (2025)
To qualify for FSTP, you must meet the following minimum requirements:
At least 2 years of full-time work experience in a skilled trade within the last 5 years
Meet the job requirements of the trade as per NOC description
CLB 5 in speaking and listening, CLB 4 in reading and writing (IELTS General)
Have a valid job offer of at least 1 year OR a Canadian trade certificate
In-Demand Skilled Trades in 2025 (FSTP)
Popular trade occupations eligible under FSTP include:
- Electricians (NOC 72200)
- Plumbers (NOC 72300)
- Welders (NOC 72106)
- Carpenters (NOC 72310)
- Heavy-duty Equipment Mechanics (NOC 72401)
- Machinists (NOC 72101)
- Bakers and Butchers (NOC 63201, 63202)
Salary Expectations for Tradespeople in Canada
Salaries vary based on trade and province. Here are averages:
- Welders: $50,000 – $75,000/year
- Electricians: $60,000 – $85,000/year
- Plumbers: $55,000 – $80,000/year
- Carpenters: $48,000 – $72,000/year
- Mechanics: $58,000 – $85,000/year
Overtime pay, union benefits, and relocation support are often included.
Documents Required for FSTP
- Valid Passport
- Language Test Results (IELTS, CELPIP)
- Trade Certification or valid job offer
- Work reference letters
- Police certificate and medical exam
- Proof of funds (unless already working in Canada)
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Check eligibility and get your NOC code
- Take IELTS or CELPIP test
- Get trade certification from a province OR a valid job offer
- Create your Express Entry profile
- Receive CRS score and wait for draw
- Get Invitation to Apply (ITA)
- Submit PR application within 60 days
- Pass medical exam, background check
CRS Score for FSTP Candidates
FSTP applicants are often selected in category-based draws with lower CRS scores (350–450 range), especially for targeted trades like construction or transportation. If you have a provincial nomination or job offer, you can get up to 600 bonus CRS points.
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) for Trades
Several provinces offer PNP streams tailored for tradespeople:
- Ontario PNP – Skilled Trades Stream
- Alberta PNP – In-demand Occupations
- British Columbia – Skilled Worker category
- Saskatchewan – Occupation In-Demand & Express Entry
- Manitoba – Employer-Driven Stream
Settlement Funds Requirement (2025)
If you don’t have a job offer or are not working in Canada, you need to show funds:
- 1 person: $14,000 CAD
- 2 people: $17,000 CAD
- 3 people: $21,000 CAD
🔗 Trusted Job Portals for Trades
FAQ – Federal Skilled Trades Program
Do I need education to qualify for FSTP?
No formal education is required. Trade experience and certification are key.
What if I don’t have a job offer?
You can still qualify if you have a trade certificate from a Canadian province.
How long does FSTP take?
On average 6–8 months after submitting your PR application.
Can I bring my family?
Yes. Spouse and children can accompany you with PR.
Is FSTP better than FSWP?
It depends. FSTP is ideal for tradespeople. FSWP is better for professionals and degree holders.
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