Express Entry
Canada is always looking for qualified candidates with the right skills, knowledge, and expertise. Under the Express Entry system, there are three primary programs. Canadian Experience Class (CEC), Federal Skilled Workers (FSW), and the Federal Skilled Trades (FST).


Canadian Experience Class
The CEC program is for those who have secured at least 1-year of Canadian work experience in a skilled occupation(s) and may qualify for this program. This program like the others sometimes has invitations and scores specific to this program. Eligibility requirements for this program are as follows.
- Have at least 1-year full-time work or 2-year part-time work experience in a skilled occupation.
- Meet the minimum language requirements in English, French, or both.
- Must obtain work experience while legally authorized to work in Canada
Federal Skilled Workers
The Federal Skilled Worker program, more commonly known as the FSW program is geared toward those who are outside of Canada. This program provides a wonderful opportunity for people to immigrate directly to Canada. Eligibility requirements for this program are as follows.
- Meet the minimum language requirements in English, French, or both.
- Possess at least 2 years of full-time work experience in a skilled trade within the past 5 years.
- Meet the job requirements for that skilled trade as prescribed by the National Occupation Classification.
- Have a valid job offer of full-time employment for at least 1 year OR a certificate of qualification in that skilled trade.
Federal Skilled Trades
The third program is the “Federal Skilled Trade” class where individuals who apply for permanent residence are assessed through the point system however, tend to have the lowest score requirements. They belong to a designated skill trade group such as industrial, electrical, construction, technical occupations, natural resource, agriculture, and manufacturing. Individuals belonging to these skill trade groups may be chosen for permanent residence, depending on the needs of the Canadian labor force. Eligibility requirements for this program are as follows.
- Meet the minimum language requirements in English, French, or both.
- Possess at least 2 years of full-time work experience in a skilled trade within the past 5 years.
- Meet the job requirements for that skilled trade as prescribed by the National Occupation Classification.
- Have a valid job offer of full-time employment for at least 1 year OR a certificate of qualification in that skilled trade.