Federal Skilled Worker Program

The FSWP, or Federal Skilled Worker Program, is a major Canadian immigration pathway for skilled workers seeking permanent residency. It is managed under the Express Entry system and is designed specifically for individuals with foreign work experience and professional skills, even if they have no prior ties to Canada.

Selection Grid: Candidates must score at least 67 out of 100 points on the FSW criteria, which evaluates education, language ability, work experience, age, arranged employment, and adaptability.

Key Features of the FSWP 

• Eligibility: Candidates must demonstrate at least 1 year of continuous, full-time paid work experience (or the equivalent in part-time) within the past ten years, in a skilled occupation under NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3.
• Education: Applicants need a Canadian secondary/post-secondary credential or a completed foreign credential assessed for Canadian equivalency (ECA).
• Language Ability: Proof of minimum proficiency in English or French (at least CLB 7 in all four abilities: speaking, listening, reading, writing) via an approved test.
• Point-Based Ranking: Once eligible, candidates submit a profile to the Express Entry pool and are ranked according to the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). The highest-ranking candidates receive invitations to apply for permanent residence.
• No Canadian Experience Required: Unlike many other programs, the FSW does not require prior Canadian work experience, or a job offer, although these can improve your score.
• Processing & Outcome: After receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA), candidates must submit a complete application within 60 days. Successful applicants receive Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and may subsequently apply for a PR Card.