The Federal Skilled Worker Program

The Federal Skilled Worker Program is for skilled workers who have overseas work experience and are looking to migrate to Canada.

Processing time: upto 6 months

Cost:

• Principal applicant ($550 processing fee + $490 right of permanent residence fee) = $1,040
• Spouse or common-law partner ($550 processing fee + $490 right of permanent residence fee) =$1,040
• A dependent child of the principal applicant (below 22 years) or 22+ and has been unable to financially self-support themselves due to a physical or mental condition = $150 per child 

Eligibility Criteria

A candidate would need to meet the minimum requirements under the following factors and would need to score at least 67 points to be considered.

• Education
• Language Ability (In English or French)
• Age
• Previous (skilled) work experience
• Valid job offer
• Adaptability
• Eligibility to work in Canada
• Proof of funds to settle in Canada

Skilled work experience refers to work under the following NOC job classifications:

• Skill Type 0 – Managerial jobs
• Skill type A – Professional Jobs
• Skill Type B – Technical jobs and Skilled Trades

Skilled work experience means:

• Work completed within the last 10 years
• Paid work (Internships and volunteer work does not count)
• At least a year of continuous work (30 hours per week), or part time work for 2 years (15 hours per week for 24 months)

Language ability

Need to score a minimum of CLB 7 in all 4 bands (Writing, Reading, Listening, Speaking) in either French or English. The test results are valid for 2 years.

Education

Obtain an Education Credential Assessment Report (ECA) from an agency which shows that the overseas education (high school degree/ Post-Secondary degree) you received is equivalent to a degree from a Canadian high school/ post-secondary institution.

Proof of funds

Show an appropriate amount of funds required for you and any family members migrating with you to settle in Canada.

Under this stream, you are eligible to live in any Canadian province except for Quebec. Quebec has its own skilled worker stream, and if you are planning to live in Quebec, you must apply through the Quebec Skilled worker stream.

*As of January, 1, 2015 candidates for the Federal Skilled Worker Program will be selected to apply through the Express Entry System

Steps to apply

• Submit an expression of interest (EOI)
• Wait to receive an invitation to apply (ITA)
• If ITA is received, submit an e-application within 60 days
• Complete a medical and police clearance checks ( for each country you have lived in for 6 months or more since turning 18)
• Application is reviewed by Canadian immigration officer
• Request for your passport and right of permanent residence fee (other documents may also be requested if required)
• Issuance of your Permanent residency visa