Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSW): PR for skilled professionals abroad
The Federal Skilled Worker Program is the main Express Entry route for professionals who've never worked in Canada. Before you can enter the pool, you must score at least 67 of 100 points on the FSW selection grid, separate from your CRS score. Star Immigration calculates both, and tells you exactly which documents prove each point.
What is the Federal Skilled Worker Program?
FSW is a federal economic immigration program for skilled workers with foreign work experience. It's managed through Express Entry: if you meet the FSW minimum requirements, you can create a profile, receive a CRS score and be invited to apply for permanent residence.
No Canadian experience needed
Built for professionals applying from abroad.
Two scoring systems
The 67-point grid for eligibility; the CRS for ranking.
Family included
Your spouse and dependent children can be part of your application.
Live anywhere outside Quebec
FSW permanent residents can settle in any province except Quebec.
Federal Skilled Worker eligibility requirements
Skilled work experience
At least one year (1,560 hours) of continuous, paid, full-time or equivalent work in one NOC TEER 0, 1, 2 or 3 occupation within the last 10 years.
Language ability
CLB 7 in speaking, listening, reading and writing in English or French.
Education
A Canadian secondary or post-secondary credential, or a foreign credential with an ECA.
Selection grid
At least 67 of 100 points across six factors.
Settlement funds
Proof of funds for your family size, unless you have a valid job offer and authorization to work in Canada.
Admissibility
Pass medical, criminal and security checks.
FSW 67-point selection grid
| Selection factor | Maximum points | What earns the points |
|---|---|---|
| Language ability | 28 | First language at CLB 7+ in each ability, plus up to 4 for a second language |
| Education | 25 | Canadian credential or ECA-assessed foreign credential; a PhD earns the maximum |
| Work experience | 15 | Years of skilled work; six or more earns the maximum |
| Age | 12 | Full points from 18 to 35, reducing each year to zero at 47 |
| Arranged employment | 10 | A valid job offer from a Canadian employer |
| Adaptability | 10 | Spouse's language, past study or work in Canada, relatives in Canada |
A job offer still earns FSW grid points even though it no longer adds CRS points.
Proof of settlement funds for FSW
IRCC sets the minimum by family size and updates it every year. Funds must be readily available, in your name or jointly with your spouse, and held over time. Officers question large recent deposits and borrowed money.
We review your bank statements before your profile is created, not after the ITA, so there are no surprises.
What counts as settlement funds
- Bank account balances
- Fixed deposits you can access
- Investments readily convertible to cash
Property equity and borrowed funds don't count.
FSW document checklist
To enter the pool
- Passport
- Language test results
- ECA report
- Work history with NOC codes
After the ITA
- Reference letters for every job claimed
- Proof of settlement funds
- Police certificates
- Medical exam
- Job offer documents, if claiming arranged employment
- Civil documents for the family
How to apply under the Federal Skilled Worker Program
Language test and ECA
Secure CLB 7+ and your credential assessment.
Score the 67-point grid
Confirm eligibility before creating a profile.
Create your profile
Enter the Express Entry pool with a CRS score.
Receive an ITA
Submit your eAPR within 60 days.
COPR and landing
Land in Canada as a permanent resident.
Our FSW service: what Star Immigration does
- 67-point grid calculationEvery factor scored and matched to evidence.
- NOC TEER mappingThe right code for your continuous year.
- ECA and language planningTimed so results stay valid.
- Settlement funds reviewChecked against IRCC's current amount.
- CRS strategyRetakes, spouse's points and PNP options.
- Profile, ITA and eAPRComplete PR application within 60 days.
Do you reach 67 points?
Bring your test results, degree and work history. We'll score the grid and your CRS in one consultation.
Federal Skilled Worker FAQs
What's the difference between the FSW 67 points and the CRS score?
The 67-point grid decides eligibility for FSW. The CRS score ranks you in the pool.
Does my work experience have to be continuous?
Your minimum one year must be continuous and paid in one occupation. More years add grid points.
Do I need an ECA if I studied in Canada?
No. Only foreign education needs an ECA.
Can I apply for FSW from inside Canada?
Yes, though people working here may also qualify for the Canadian Experience Class.
Check your Federal Skilled Worker eligibility
Book a walk-in at our Brampton office or a phone consultation from anywhere.