Immigration Blog about US & Canadian Immigration matters.

Knowing the Federal Skilled Worker Program

Express Entry is one of the ways by which you may obtain a permanent residence status in Canada. However, Express Entry is a broad concept in the field of immigration, as there are many programs under it. There are three major programs: the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Federal Skilled Trades Program, and the Canadian Experience Class. Having to figure out the Express Entry or the programs can be a hassle for many foreign nationals. In order to prepare you for your application, it is important for you to recognize and understand the eligibility requirements prior to applying. In this blog, you will learn about the Federal Skilled Worker Program, as well as other important information one should know before applying under this economic immigration program.

Skilled work experience Requirement for the FSW

Individuals can be recruited for positions which qualify as Skill Type 0 (managerial jobs) or Skill Level A (professional jobs) or Skill Level B (technical jobs and skilled trades) on the Canadian National Occupational Classification (NOC) list.

As of January 1, 2015 there is no longer a list of qualifying occupations. There used to be a list of fifty qualifying occupations of which you must work full time continuously full time for one year, but with the new start of Express Entry that is no longer the case.

The Federal Skilled Worker program does still exist but now you must apply under the Express Entry. You will require to have worked continuously for a total of 1,560 hours (30 hours per week) full time or part time to the same total of 1,560 hours (either 2 jobs at 30 hours a week, or 15 hours a week over 2 years (24 months)) The job would have to be in the same skill level, and be at the skill level of 0, A, or B according to the National Occupational Classification.