Canada FSW Program Petition Process

The Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) helps workers with a good level of experience and skills to begin their application for permanent residence in Canada. You apply through the Express Entry system, which is the most straightforward and, at present, the fastest way to move to Canada permanently. If you meet the minimum score and provide honest, accurate information, your immigration process can proceed smoothly.

Eligibility Requirements for Canada's Express Entry Pool

You should have worked full-time in your intended occupation for at least one year within the last 10 years.
Your job should be listed as Skill Type 0 (managerial occupation), Skill Level 1 (professional occupation), or Skill Level B (technical occupation and skilled trade).
Score at least 67 points on the skills assessment test.
A letter from a Canadian employer offering full-time work, along with a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) where applicable.
A Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 7 language proficiency score in either English or French.
Sufficient funds to settle in Canada.

Follow the steps below to successfully submit an application as a Federal Skilled Worker under the Canada Federal Skilled Worker Program.

1. Obtain the Application Package

The application package comprises the instruction guide and all the forms you need to complete as part of the FSWP process. Use the guide to help you fill out the forms correctly. Complete the forms on your computer. Once you are finished:

Validate the Generic Application Form for Canada (IMM 0008) online. Click the 'Validate' button on the form and it will highlight in red any fields you may have overlooked and still need to complete.
Print the barcode page (it becomes visible after you validate the form).
Sign where you are asked to.
Include the barcode page with your submission.
Print the additional forms and sign where you are asked to.

It is essential that each of your answers is complete and accurate, and that you fill out every form mentioned in the application package. Use the Document Checklist so you do not miss anything.

2. Pay the Application Fees

You pay a processing fee for yourself and for your accompanying family members. When you submit your application, it is important to include everyone who will accompany you to Canada, as this affects your fees. Review the fee list to find out how much you will owe. If you are found ineligible to apply, Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) will contact you and your processing fees will be refunded.

You will also pay the Right of Permanent Residence Fee if your petition is approved. This covers you and your spouse and/or dependants, if they are travelling with you. It is important to pay it before you are issued your Canada Permanent Resident Visa (PRV). This fee is refunded if you withdraw your application, or if you do not end up using your permit.

You may also have to pay third parties for the following:

A police certificate, if one is required.
An Educational Credential Assessment (ECA).
Services at a Visa Application Centre, if you use one.

Complete the Fee Payment Form (IMM 5620) and include it with your petition. At present, online payments for qualified workers are not accepted. The guide has more detailed information on fees.

3. Submit Your Completed Petition

Before you send your application, make sure you have done the following:

Completed and signed your application and all forms.
Included your processing fees.
Included every supporting document and certificate.

If you fail to do so, your submission will be returned to you and you will be expected to correct any errors before resending it. Use the Document Checklist to confirm that you have not overlooked anything.

Validate the Generic Application Form for Canada (IMM 0008) online (click the 'Validate' button on the form and it will highlight in red any omitted fields).
Print the barcode page.
Include the barcode page with your submission. This helps confirm that your submission is complete and keeps it free from delays.
Mail your petition and fees to the Centralized Intake Office in Sydney, Nova Scotia, Canada. Do not send your submission to the visa office that serves your home country.

Several routes are available to move to Canada. If you are unable to meet the requirements to apply through the FSWP, you may still qualify under a different stream.

Why Choose Abhinav?

For more information about the Canada Federal Skilled Worker Program petition process, email web@abhinav.com and one of our experienced consultants will get in touch to help with your questions and concerns. You can also call us on +91-8595338595 or speak with an expert directly through our live chat.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Federal Skilled Worker Program?

The Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) is a way for skilled workers to obtain permanent residence in Canada through the Express Entry system, based on their work experience, skills, language ability and other selection factors.

Am I eligible for the FSWP?

You generally need at least one year of full-time skilled work experience, a minimum of 67 points on the selection assessment, a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 7 score in English or French, and sufficient funds to settle in Canada.

How fast is the FSWP process?

Applications are often processed within 6 to 12 months when the submission is complete and accurate. Missing forms, documents or fees can lead to your application being returned and cause delays.

Do I need a job offer for the FSWP?

A valid job offer from a Canadian employer helps and can add points, but it is not always required to qualify for the Federal Skilled Worker Program under Express Entry.

Where do I send my FSWP application?

Mail your completed petition and fees to the Centralized Intake Office in Sydney, Nova Scotia, Canada. Do not send it to the visa office that serves your home country.