Express Entry
Federal Skilled Worker (FSW)
Complete reference to the eligibility criteria, the 67-point assessment grid, and FSW draws.
FSW Eligibility Requirements
To submit an Express Entry profile under the Federal Skilled Worker (FSW) category, you must satisfy three mandatory criteria:
- Skilled Work Experience: Have at least **one year** (12 months) of continuous, full-time (or equivalent part-time) paid work experience in a TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 occupation. The experience must have been gained within the last 10 years.
- Language Proficiency: Meet the minimum Canadian Language Benchmark of **CLB 7** in all four abilities (reading, writing, listening, speaking) in English or French.
- Education Credential Assessment (ECA): If your credentials were earned outside of Canada, you must obtain an ECA report (e.g. from WES, IQAS) proving your education is equivalent to a Canadian high school or post-secondary degree.
The 67-Point Selection Grid
Even if you meet the baseline eligibility, you must score at least **67 out of 100 points** on the FSW selection grid to enter the pool:
| Selection Factor | Max Points | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Language Skills | 28 Points | Scores reflect your CLB levels in English or French (plus bilingual bonus points). |
| Education | 25 Points | Ranges from 5 points (high school) to 25 points (Ph.D. degree). |
| Work Experience | 15 Points | Earn points for each year of skilled experience (max 6+ years). |
| Age | 12 Points | Maximum 12 points awarded to candidates aged **18 to 35**. Points decrease annually after 35. |
| Arranged Employment | 10 Points | Awarded for an eligible full-time job offer backed by a valid LMIA. |
| Adaptability | 10 Points | Points for past study/work in Canada, or having close relatives in Canada. |
Proof of Settlement Funds
Unlike CEC candidates, FSW applicants must prove they have the financial resources to settle their family in Canada:
- Minimum Savings: The required funds depend on your family size (updated annually by IRCC). For example, a single applicant requires approximately **$14,600+ CAD**.
- Exemptions: You do not need to show proof of funds if you are currently authorized to work in Canada *and* hold a valid job offer backed by an approved LMIA.
Official Government References & Sources
This guide compiles official Express Entry guidelines and Federal Skilled Worker (FSW) parameters sourced directly from:
• Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) FSW Guide: canada.ca/fsw-eligibility
• IRCC 67-Point Grid Criteria details: canada.ca/fsw-points-grid
FSW Key Metrics
Minimum Grid Score67 / 100 Points
Language RequirementCLB 7 (All bands)
ECA ReportMandatory
Proof of FundsRequired (unless job offer)