Federal Skilled Worker Program
How the Federal Skilled Worker Program works: the 67-point eligibility grid, language and education requirements, proof of funds, and how FSW candidates are ranked in Express Entry.
The Federal Skilled Worker Program is the main Express Entry route for skilled workers with foreign work experience. Candidates must pass a separate 67-point eligibility grid covering language, education, experience, age, arranged employment and adaptability, meet the language minimum, and show settlement funds unless exempt. Passing the grid only makes you eligible — ranking then happens through the CRS.
Key facts
| Program type | Federal economic class, managed through Express Entry |
|---|---|
| Eligibility screen | 67-point selection grid (separate from CRS) |
| Experience | Skilled work experience, foreign or Canadian |
| Education | Foreign credentials require an ECA |
| Proof of funds | Required unless legally working in Canada with a valid offer |
| Official authority | IRCC |
Who may qualify?
- Skilled workers outside Canada with continuous skilled experience
- Applicants with a foreign degree assessed through an approved ECA body
- Candidates with strong English or French test results
- Applicants with Canadian relatives or prior Canadian study or work (adaptability points)
Eligibility requirements
- Meeting or exceeding the 67-point FSW selection grid
- Language results at or above the program minimum in all four abilities
- An Educational Credential Assessment for foreign education
- Proof of settlement funds where required
How it works: step by step
- 1
Score the 67-point grid
Check language, education, experience, age, arranged employment and adaptability separately from CRS.
- 2
Complete an ECA
Have foreign credentials assessed by an IRCC-designated organisation.
- 3
Sit a language test
Approved English or French tests only; results must be valid on the day you apply.
- 4
Document funds
Prepare official bank letters at the required amount for your family size.
- 5
Enter the pool
Create your profile and track general and category-based rounds.
Expert insight
Many FSW candidates confuse the 67-point grid with the CRS. They are two different tests: the grid decides whether you may enter the pool at all, the CRS decides whether you get invited. Both need to be checked before you spend money on documents.
Alternative pathways
Frequently asked questions
Immigration programs, fees and processing times change frequently. This page is general information, not immigration advice. Verify current requirements with official Government of Canada sources or speak with our RCIC.