Federal Skilled Trades Program
Qualified people in skilled trades (e.g. electricians, welders, chefs) seeking permanent residence.
The Federal Skilled Trades Program is a Canadian work & skilled visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~CA$1,525 (CA$950 processing + CA$575 RPRF)) and processing time (~6 months after an invitation to apply), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Federal Skilled Trades Program is for
Qualified people in skilled trades (e.g. electricians, welders, chefs) seeking permanent residence.
Grants permanent residence directly to qualified tradespeople.
Federal Skilled Trades Program - eligibility criteria
- 2 years of skilled trades work experience in the last 5 years
- A valid job offer (1 year) OR a certificate of qualification
- Meet language minimums (CLB 5 speaking/listening, CLB 4 reading/writing)
- Experience in an eligible skilled trade occupation
- Be admissible to Canada
Federal Skilled Trades Program cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Federal Skilled Trades Program (Canada) is ~CA$1,525 (CA$950 processing + CA$575 RPRF), with an indicative processing time of ~6 months after an invitation to apply. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at IRCC (canada.ca).
| Type | Points-based |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Online via Express Entry |
| Length of stay | Permanent |
| Work rights | Full work rights as a permanent resident |
| Study rights | Full study rights as a permanent resident |
| Government fee | ~CA$1,525 (CA$950 processing + CA$575 RPRF) |
| Processing time | ~6 months after an invitation to apply |
| Route to PR | Grants permanent residence directly to qualified tradespeople. |
Pathway & next steps
Grants permanent residence directly to qualified tradespeople.
Many applicants also compare Express Entry · Express Entry (Economic Immigration System), FSW · Federal Skilled Worker Program, PNP · Provincial Nominee Program. Run a free VisaChief check to see which Canadian route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Federal Skilled Trades Program pitfalls we fix
Federal Skilled Trades Program - frequently asked questions
How much does the Federal Skilled Trades Program cost?
The Federal Skilled Trades Program government fee is ~CA$1,525 (CA$950 processing + CA$575 RPRF). Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at IRCC (canada.ca) before applying.
How long does the Federal Skilled Trades Program take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~6 months after an invitation to apply. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Federal Skilled Trades Program lead to permanent residence?
Grants permanent residence directly to qualified tradespeople.
Can I work on the Federal Skilled Trades Program?
Work rights: Full work rights as a permanent resident.
Who can apply for the Federal Skilled Trades Program?
Qualified people in skilled trades (e.g. electricians, welders, chefs) seeking permanent residence.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Canada government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- IRCC (canada.ca) - official Canada immigration authority