FEDERAL SKILLED TRADES PROGRAM (Express Entry)

To be eligible, you must meet the required language levels for each language ability (writing, reading, listening, speaking) through one of the approved testing agencies (IELTS or CELPIP)(TEF for French).

Have at least 2 years of full-time work experience (or an equal amount of part-time work experience) in a skilled trade within the 5 years before you apply. Your work experience must be for paid work (paid wages or earned commission—volunteer work or unpaid internships don’t count)

• meet the job requirements for that skilled trade as set out in the National Occupational Classification, except for needing a certificate of qualification
• have a
• valid job offer of full-time employment for a total period of at least 1 year or
• certificate of qualification in that skilled trade issued by a Canadian provincial, territorial or federal authority

Skilled trades for the Federal Skilled Trades Program are organized under these groups of the National Occupational Classification (NOC):

• Major Group 72, industrial, electrical and construction trades
• Major Group 73, maintenance and equipment operation trades
• Major Group 82, supervisors and technical jobs in natural resources, agriculture and related production
• Major Group 92, processing, manufacturing and utilities supervisors and central control operators
• Minor Group 632, chefs and cooks
• Minor Group 633, butchers and bakers

The work experience only counts after you qualified to independently practice the occupation.

There is no education requirement for the Federal Skilled Trades Program. But, if you want to improve your rank in the Express Entry pool you may include proof of successful completion of secondary and/or post secondary education.

Your language tests are valid for 2 years after the date of the test result. They must be valid on the day you apply for permanent residence.

You must show that you have enough money for you and your family to settle in Canada, unless

• you are currently able to legally work in Canada and
• have a valid job offer from an employer in Canada

Click here to see the Federal Government Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) Criteria – Express Entry – Canada.ca

You’ll likely have to go to the province or territory to be assessed for your trade. You may also need an employer in Canada to give you experience and training.

To learn more about getting assessed, you should go to the website of the body that governs trades for the province/territory where you would like to live and work. The process is different, depending on where you want to go. See- Canadian Information Centre for International Credentials.