Canada · GlossaryFrançais
FSW (Federal Skilled Worker Program)
FSW, the Federal Skilled Worker Program, is one of the three Canadian economic immigration programs managed through Express Entry. It is aimed at skilled workers with foreign work experience who want to become permanent residents.
Minimum requirements
- At least 1 year of continuous full-time (or equal part-time) paid skilled work in a TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 job within the last 10 years.
- CLB 7 in all four language abilities.
- Secondary education or higher, with an ECA for foreign credentials.
- At least 67 out of 100 points on the FSW selection grid (age, education, language, experience, job offer, adaptability).
- Enough settlement funds, unless you have a valid job offer and are authorized to work in Canada.
Meeting FSW only lets you enter the pool; you then compete on CRS. See our FSW page, the 67-point calculator, and CEC vs FSW.
Frequently asked questions
Is the 67-point grid the same as CRS?
No. The 67 points decide eligibility for FSW. CRS ranks you in the pool.
Do I need a job offer for FSW?
No, but it adds selection grid points and can exempt you from proof of funds.
How much money do I need for FSW?
As of September 2026, CAD $15,263 for a single person, per IRCC's table (effective July 7, 2025).
Official sources
- IRCC: Federal Skilled Workerscanada.ca
General information, not legal advice. NorthAmericans.com is independent and not affiliated with any government.