Using TCF Canada for the Federal Skilled Trades Program

Yes. IRCC accepts TCF Canada for the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP). The minimum is split by ability: speaking and listening must reach NCLC 5, while reading and writing must reach NCLC 4. The TCF Canada minimums are speaking 6, listening 369, reading 342, and writing 4.

TCF Canada minimum scores for FSTP

Speaking 6 and listening 369 are the minimums for NCLC 5. Reading 342 and writing 4 are the minimums for NCLC 4. Every ability must meet its own threshold; a higher score in one ability cannot offset a lower one. Results must be less than 2 years old when you complete the Express Entry profile and submit the permanent residence application.

Qualifying skilled-trade work experience

You generally need at least 2 years or 3,120 hours of qualifying paid work within the previous 5 years. The experience must be in the same eligible skilled-trade NOC and obtained while you were qualified to practise independently in the country where you worked. Student work does not count toward the minimum requirement.

Job offer or certificate of qualification

You must also have either a qualifying offer of continuous, paid, full-time work for at least 1 year in total, or a certificate of qualification in your trade issued by a Canadian provincial, territorial, or federal authority. A work permit by itself is not a valid job offer, and the occupation and offer must meet the current IRCC rules.

Education, funds, and where you plan to live

There is no education requirement for FSTP, although Canadian education or foreign education with an immigration-purpose ECA may improve your Express Entry ranking. You generally must also meet proof-of-funds and admissibility rules and plan to live outside the province of Quebec. Meeting the minimums does not guarantee an invitation.

Frequently asked questions

Is TCF Canada accepted for the Federal Skilled Trades Program?
Yes. IRCC accepts TCF Canada as an approved French test for FSTP.
What TCF Canada scores do I need for FSTP?
The minimums are speaking 6, listening 369, reading 342, and writing 4. Speaking and listening are NCLC 5; reading and writing are NCLC 4.
Do I need a Canadian job offer for FSTP?
You need either a qualifying full-time job offer for at least one year or a Canadian certificate of qualification in your trade.
Does FSTP have an education minimum?
No. Eligible Canadian education or foreign education with an ECA may still improve your Express Entry ranking.

Official source

2026-08-22.

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This page provides educational information only and is not legal or immigration advice.