Guide
FSW, CEC, and FST — which program fits you?
Express Entry is one system with three federal program doors. Each door has its own eligibility test. Only after you pass that test do you enter the CRS pool and compete for invitations.
3
Federal programs
67
FSW pass mark
1,560
CEC hours
Many applicants qualify for more than one stream on paper but are strongest in one. Choose the stream that matches your evidence — mismatched NOC stories or hour counts are a common refusal path.
Federal Skilled Worker (FSW)
67 selection points (out of 100 grid)
For skilled workers with foreign and/or Canadian experience. You must pass the six-factor selection grid before entering the pool — separate from your CRS ranking score.
- At least one year of continuous skilled work (TEER 0–3)
- Language minimum CLB 7 in all four abilities
- Proof of funds unless already authorized to work in Canada
- Educational credential at minimum high school (ECA if foreign)
Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
1,560 hours of skilled Canadian work
For people who already have substantial skilled work experience in Canada. No separate 67-point grid — you must meet the hour and language thresholds, then compete on CRS.
- 1,560 hours in TEER 0–3 work within the last three years (with weekly cap rules)
- Language: CLB 7 for TEER 0–1 jobs, CLB 5 for TEER 2–3
- Work must be gained while authorized to work in Canada
- Self-employment and most student work do not count
Federal Skilled Trades (FST)
Skilled trade experience + job offer or certificate
For qualified tradespersons in eligible occupations. Requires trade experience plus either a valid job offer or a certificate of qualification from a Canadian authority.
- 2 years of full-time skilled trade work in the last five years
- Meet job-offer or certificate-of-qualification requirement
- Language minimum CLB 5 speaking/listening, CLB 4 reading/writing
- Must intend to live outside Quebec
Official sources
Figures and rules in this guide are checked against IRCC program pages. If anything conflicts, trust the government page.
Further reading
Independent articles from licensed immigration professionals. We don't copy their text — these links are optional background if you want a consultant's walkthrough of the same topic.
- IPJ Immigration — Express Entry eligibility (FSW, CEC, FST) 2026
Consultant overview; verify details on IRCC.
Compare scores in one place
PRLedger separates FSW selection points from CRS ranking — they are not the same number.
Open calculatorsCanadian PRLedger is a free tracking and calculator tool — not a law firm, not an RCIC practice, and not affiliated with IRCC. These guides summarize public program rules for planning purposes only. For case-specific advice, speak with a licensed immigration consultant or lawyer.