FSW Program
The Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSW) is for skilled professionals with foreign work experience who want to immigrate to Canada permanently. Candidates are assessed on six selection factors.
Eligibility Requirements
Work Experience
At least 1 year of continuous full-time paid skilled work in NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 within the last 10 years.
Language Ability
Minimum CLB 7 in English (IELTS) or French (TEF Canada) in all four abilities.
Education
Canadian degree/diploma OR foreign credential with Educational Credential Assessment (ECA).
Settlement Funds
Sufficient funds to support yourself and family after arrival (amount varies by family size).
Age
Must be at least 18 years old. Maximum CRS points awarded between ages 20-29.
Admissibility
Pass medical exam, obtain police certificates, and have no criminal record.
Six Selection Factors (100 points)
PhD = 25, Master's = 23, Bachelor's = 21, Diploma = 19
CLB 9+ = max points per ability
6+ years = 15 pts, 4-5 = 13, 2-3 = 11, 1 yr = 9
18-35 = full points, then reduces by 1 per year
Valid job offer supported by LMIA or LMIA-exempt
Spouse language, Canadian education/work, relatives
Pass mark: 67 out of 100 points. Candidates who score 67+ enter the Express Entry pool for CRS ranking.