For individuals attempting to become permanent residents based on being qualified for a skilled trade, the Federal Skilled Trades Program is the primary option. To be eligible for the Federal Skilled Trades Program a minimum of CLB 5 for speaking and listening and CLB 4 for reading and writing must be met. Additionally, at least two years of full-time work is required (or equal amount of part-time hours), within the past five years, in the past five years. Also, an offer of full-time employment is requires for a minimum of on year unless a a certificate of qualification is awarded by a Canadian provincial or territorial authority
Currently the following NOC are eligible for the Federal Skilled Trades Program
- Major Group 72, industrial, electrical and construction trades,
- Major Group 73, maintenance and equipment operation trades,
- Major Group 82, supervisors and technical jobs in natural resources, agriculture and related production,
- Major Group 92, processing, manufacturing and utilities supervisors and central control operators,
- Minor Group 632, chefs and cooks, and
- Minor Group 633, butchers and bakers.