What is the Federal Skilled Immigration Program in Canada?

Canadian manufacturing jobs: Skilled workers operating machinery in a factory, contributing to the country's industrial growth

The Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) in Canada was developed and improved in 2015 as part of the Canadian government’s ongoing efforts to enhance its economic immigration programs. This program allows applicants to benefit from and access the Express Entry system to Canada, ensuring the invitation of individuals who can economically succeed in the country.

Applicants, under the laws and regulations governing the program, must meet the basic requirements set by the Canadian Department of Citizenship and Immigration, known as selection factors or basic acceptance points, to qualify for the Federal Skilled Worker Immigration Program.

Selection factors in the Federal Skilled Worker Immigration Program in Canada

The selection factors in this program are part of a points-based system with a total of 100 points. Applicants earn points based on their:

  • Age and education level.
  • Work experience and the ability to secure a job offer.
  • Language proficiency, and their potential to integrate into Canadian society.

Once applicants have successfully met the selection factors and passed the assessment, they can apply for the Express Entry program. They are then categorized based on the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), the second points-based system used to rank applicants within the Express Entry to Canada program.

During the Comprehensive Ranking System, applicants are assessed based on various criteria, including the principal applicant’s experience, language proficiency, and educational level, as well as other criteria such as obtaining Canadian certifications, the principal applicant receiving a job offer, or having close relatives residing in Canada with permanent residency.

Afterward, the Canadian Department of Citizenship and Immigration invites individuals, along with their eligible family members who have the highest scores among all applicants in the Express Entry program, to apply for permanent residency in Canada. At this stage, applicants are required to provide evidence and documents that support their point allocations.

Applicants also need to provide proof of their medical and financial fitness for entry into Canada, as well as assurance that there are no security concerns arising from their entry and relocation to Canada.

The processing time for applications under the Federal Skilled Worker Program is usually less than 6 months, after which successful applicants and their eligible family members are granted permanent Canadian residency.

At Reach Immigration, we do not offer skilled immigration programs, but rather we offer residency or citizenship programs by investment. For the details, contact us to book a free consultation by clicking on the link here.