June 3, 2025
Canada Immigration: Trade Category and How to Claim 50 Additional Points under Express Entry
Canada’s thriving economy relies heavily on skilled tradespeople who build, maintain, and support critical infrastructure across provinces and territories. Recognizing the demand for such workers, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) offers immigration pathways specifically tailored to skilled trades. If you are a tradesperson considering immigration to Canada, understanding the Trade Category under Express Entry and how to claim 50 additional Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points can significantly boost your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency.
What Is the Skilled Trade Category?
The Skilled Trade Category falls under the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), one of the three federal economic immigration programs managed through the Express Entry system. This program is designed for skilled tradespersons with experience in occupations categorized under National Occupation Classification (NOC) TEER 2 or 3 in Major Groups such as:
- Construction trades (e.g., carpenters, electricians, plumbers)
- Industrial, electrical, and metal trades
- Equipment operation and maintenance trades
- Cooks and butchers
- Supervisors and technical jobs in natural resources, agriculture, and production
Eligibility Requirements for FSTP
To qualify under the Federal Skilled Trades Program, applicants must:
- Have at least two years of full-time work experience (or an equivalent part-time experience) in a skilled trade within the last five years;
- Meet the language requirements (CLB 5 in speaking and listening, CLB 4 in reading and writing);
- Have a valid job offer of full-time employment for at least one year OR a certificate of qualification in the skilled trade issued by a Canadian provincial, territorial, or federal authority;
- Intend to reside outside of Quebec (Quebec has its own immigration selection system).
How to Claim the 50 Additional CRS Points
Applicants in the trades category can claim 50 additional CRS points through Express Entry under specific conditions:
1. Job Offer in a Skilled Trade
If you have a valid job offer from a Canadian employer for at least one year in a NOC TEER 2 or 3 skilled trade occupation, you are eligible to receive 50 extra CRS points. The job offer must:
- Be supported by a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) unless exempt;
- Be full-time, non-seasonal, and genuine;
- Be in the same NOC as your skilled trade experience;
- Come from up to two employers in Canada if it adds up to full-time work.
2. Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) Support
Some provinces and territories operate PNP streams targeted at tradespeople, such as the Ontario Employer Job Offer: In-Demand Skills Stream, or Alberta Express Entry – Trades Occupation Stream. Getting a provincial nomination adds 600 CRS points, but even if you only get a job offer through a PNP-aligned stream, you can still get 50 CRS points for the job offer.
3. Certificate of Qualification
While a certificate of qualification does not directly give 50 points, it allows you to be eligible under FSTP and apply without a job offer. Once you have the certificate and secure a job offer later, you can then claim the 50 points. Provinces like British Columbia and Ontario allow trade certification even from outside Canada through exams and credential recognition.
Why Choose MyWorld Immigration?
At MyWorld Immigration, we understand that the Canadian immigration system can be complex—especially for skilled tradespersons navigating Express Entry. Our team has years of experience, legal expertise, and personalized strategies tailored for trades professionals.
We help our clients by:
- Identifying the right NOC and TEER level for your trade
- Supporting job offer acquisition and LMIA processing
- Guiding through trade certification and credential assessment
- Preparing a solid Express Entry profile and maximizing CRS score
- Connecting with suitable Provincial Nominee Programs
- Ensuring timely submission and follow-up
Our hands-on support ensures that you meet all eligibility requirements while optimizing your application for success.
Final Thoughts
Canada needs skilled tradespeople now more than ever. Whether you’re a welder, a plumber, a construction supervisor, or a heavy equipment operator, your skills are in demand. Claiming the 50 additional CRS points through a valid job offer can be a game-changer for your immigration journey.
Let MyWorld Immigration help you build your future in Canada—brick by brick, trade by trade.
👉 Book your free consultation today and take the first step toward your new life in Canada.