Federal Skilled Worker Program
The Federal Skilled Worker Program is for skilled workers with foreign work experience who want to immigrate to Canada permanently. It's one of the three programs managed under Express Entry.
About the Federal Skilled Worker Program
The Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) is designed for skilled workers with foreign work experience who want to immigrate to Canada permanently. This program is managed under the Express Entry system and uses a points-based system to assess candidates.
To qualify, you must score at least 67 points out of 100 on the FSWP selection factors grid. The program evaluates candidates based on their education, language skills, work experience, age, arranged employment, and adaptability.
Program Requirements
- Minimum 67/100 points on selection factors
- 1+ year skilled work experience
- CLB 7 in all language abilities
- Educational credential assessment
Program Benefits
Minimum Eligibility Requirements
- Skilled work experience (NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3)
- Language ability in English and/or French
- Education (Canadian secondary or post-secondary certificate, diploma or degree, or foreign equivalent)
Selection Factors (100 Points Total)
You need at least 67 points to be eligible for the Federal Skilled Worker Program
Language Requirements
Minimum CLB 7 required in all four language abilities
Work Experience Requirements
- At least 1 year of continuous full-time work experience
- Work experience must be in the same NOC as your primary occupation
- Work experience must be within the last 10 years
- Work must be paid (volunteer work and unpaid internships don't count)
- Work must be in NOC TEER category 0, 1, 2, or 3
Points Breakdown
Education Points (Max 25)
Age Points (Max 12)
Language Points (Max 28)
* Points are awarded for each of the 4 language abilities (speaking, listening, reading, writing). Maximum 7 points per ability × 4 abilities = 28 points total.
Work Experience Points (Max 15)
* Work experience must be in NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 occupations and within the last 10 years.
Application Process
Check Eligibility
Ensure you meet minimum requirements for education, language, and work experience
Language Testing
Take approved language tests (IELTS, CELPIP for English; TEF, TCF for French)
Educational Credential Assessment
Get your foreign education assessed by designated organization
Create Express Entry Profile
Submit your profile to the Express Entry pool
Receive Invitation
Wait for Invitation to Apply (ITA) from IRCC
Submit Application
Submit complete application within 60 days of receiving ITA
Important Information
- • Meeting minimum requirements doesn't guarantee an invitation to apply
- • Express Entry uses Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) for final selection
- • Language test results are valid for 2 years from test date
- • Educational Credential Assessment is valid for 5 years
- • Processing time for complete applications is approximately 6 months
- • You must have enough money to support yourself and your family in Canada
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions about the Federal Skilled Worker Program.
Ready to Apply as a Federal Skilled Worker?
Let our experienced team assess your eligibility and guide you through the Federal Skilled Worker Program application process.