The Federal Skilled Worker (FSW) program is a key component of Canada’s Express Entry immigration system, designed to attract skilled workers from around the world to meet labor market demands in Canada. It is specifically targeted at individuals who have foreign work experience and possess skills that are needed in the Canadian economy.
Applicants to the FSW program are assessed on a points-based system, with points awarded for factors such as age, education, work experience, job offers in Canada, English and/or French language skills, and adaptability (which includes previous work or study in Canada, or having a relative in Canada). To be eligible, applicants must first meet minimum requirements for work experience, language ability, and education.
Once deemed eligible, candidates enter a pool where they are ranked against others based on their total points score. Periodically, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) issues Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residence to the highest-ranking candidates in the pool. This program is one of the main ways skilled workers can immigrate to Canada and contribute to its diverse and growing economy.