Amit Kumar - Software Engineer
FSW Score: 89/100
"I scored 89 points on FSW with my Master's degree and high IELTS scores. The clear 67-point system helped me understand exactly what I needed!"
Now in: Vancouver, BC
What is the Federal Skilled Worker Program?
The Federal Skilled Worker (FSW) Program is one of Canada's three federal economic immigration programs managed under Express Entry. It's designed for skilled workers with foreign work experience who want to immigrate to Canada permanently.
International Workers
For skilled workers from around the world with at least one year of continuous full-time work experience.
67-Point System
You must score at least 67 out of 100 points on the FSW selection factors to be eligible.
Express Entry Gateway
Meeting FSW requirements allows you to enter the Express Entry pool for permanent residence.
FSW Points Breakdown
Education (25 points max)
- Doctoral degree (PhD): 25 points
- Master's degree: 23 points
- Bachelor's degree (3+ years): 21 points
- Two-year post-secondary: 18 points
- One-year post-secondary: 15 points
- Secondary school: 5 points
Language Skills (28 points max)
- First language CLB 9+: 24 points
- First language CLB 8: 20 points
- First language CLB 7: 16 points
- Second language CLB 5+: 4 points
Work Experience (15 points max)
- 6+ years: 15 points
- 4-5 years: 13 points
- 2-3 years: 11 points
- 1 year: 9 points
Age (12 points max)
- 18-35 years: Maximum points (varies)
- Peak age 20-29: Higher points
- Points decrease after 35
- No points after 47
Arranged Employment (10 points max)
- Valid job offer with LMIA: 10 points
- Must be for permanent, full-time work
- In NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3
Adaptability (10 points max)
- Your previous work in Canada: 10 points
- Spouse education: 5 points
- Spouse work in Canada: 5 points
- Your study in Canada: 5 points
- Relatives in Canada: 5 points
- French language skills: 4 points
Minimum Eligibility Requirements
Work Experience
At least 1 year of continuous full-time (or equivalent part-time) skilled work experience in NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3.
Language Ability
Minimum CLB 7 in English or French in all four language abilities (speaking, listening, reading, writing).
Education
Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) report for foreign education to show Canadian equivalent.
67 Points
Score at least 67 out of 100 points on the FSW selection factors grid.
Proof of Funds
Show sufficient funds to support yourself and family members in Canada (unless working in Canada).
Medical & Security
Pass medical exams and security/criminal background checks.
How to Improve Your FSW Score
Language Improvement
Highest Impact: Language scores offer the most points (28 max)
- Aim for CLB 9+ in first language: +24 points
- Learn second official language (CLB 5+): +4 points
- Take IELTS, CELPIP, TEF, or TCF tests
Quick Win: Even improving from CLB 7 to CLB 8 gives +4 points!
Education Enhancement
Long-term Strategy: Higher education significantly boosts scores
- Complete Master's degree: +23 points
- Get Educational Credential Assessment
- Consider Canadian education for additional benefits
Bonus: Canadian education also helps with Express Entry CRS points!
Work Experience
Time-Based: Accumulate more skilled work experience
- Aim for 6+ years: +15 points
- Work in NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3
- Ensure continuous, full-time experience
Note: Canadian work experience also helps with adaptability points!
Job Offer
Game Changer: Valid job offer guarantees 10 points
- Secure LMIA-supported job offer
- Network with Canadian employers
- Use job search platforms and recruitment agencies
Bonus: Job offers also provide massive CRS points in Express Entry!
Adaptability Factors
Multiple Opportunities: Various ways to earn adaptability points
- Study in Canada: +5 points
- Spouse education/work: +5 points each
- Canadian relatives: +5 points
- French language skills: +4 points
Maximum: You can only claim 10 adaptability points total!
Age Optimization
Time-Sensitive: Apply while age scores are favorable
- Peak scoring age: 20-33 years
- Points decrease after 35
- No points after age 47
Strategy: If you're approaching age milestones, prioritize application timeline!
Need Personalized Guidance?
Our immigration experts can analyze your profile and create a strategic plan to maximize your FSW score!
Get Expert AssessmentFSW Application Process
1
Self-Assessment
Use our calculator to ensure you meet the 67-point minimum and all other FSW requirements.
2
Prepare Documents
Gather language test results, Educational Credential Assessment, work experience letters, and other documents.
3
Create Express Entry Profile
If you qualify for FSW, create your Express Entry profile and enter the pool.
4
Improve CRS Score
Work on improving your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score to receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
5
Receive ITA
If selected in an Express Entry draw, receive your Invitation to Apply for permanent residence.
6
Submit Application
Submit your complete application within 60 days of receiving the ITA.
7
Receive Decision
IRCC processes your application within 6 months and makes a decision on your permanent residence.
FSW Success Stories
Sarah Ahmed - Marketing Manager
FSW Score: 78/100
"My job offer gave me crucial points to reach 78. Vishwanta's guidance helped me understand the FSW requirements perfectly."
Now in: Toronto, ON
Chen Wei - Financial Analyst
FSW Score: 72/100
"I improved my language scores and got my spouse's education assessed to reach 72 points. Strategic planning made all the difference!"
Now in: Calgary, AB
Ready to Start Your FSW Journey?
Our immigration experts specialize in Federal Skilled Worker applications and can help you maximize your chances of success.