Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
Table of Contents
About CEC
The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) is one of the immigration streams that are part of the Express Entry immigration system of Canada and is intended for people with experience in skilled occupations in Canada.
Candidates with Canadian work experience can use it in their immigration and settlement applications in Canada. This program is usually preferred by international graduates and temporary foreign workers who have become part of the Canadian labor market.
Who Should Consider CEC?
The Canadian Experience Class may be suitable for:
- Canadian graduates who have gained work experience after their education in Canada.
- Foreign temporary workers who have been engaged in skilled jobs in Canada.
- Those who would like to change their status from temporary to permanent residency.
- Candidates who already have Canadian work experience.
Main Eligibility Criteria
1. Canadian Skilled Work Experience
- One year of skilled work experience in Canada within the last three years.
- A minimum of 1,560 hours of paid employment.
- Work experience that was gained during legal permission to work in Canada.
- Worked in occupations designated in TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 of NOC.
2. Language Proficiency
The applicant needs to submit proof of the result of any approved test of English or French language proficiency.
Occupation Level and Minimum Language Requirement:
- TEER 0 or TEER 1 occupations require a minimum language proficiency of CLB 7.
- TEER 2 or TEER 3 occupations require a minimum language proficiency of CLB 5.
Language proficiency is assessed in:
- Speaking
- Listening
- Reading
- Writing
3. Education
Under CEC, there is no mandatory education criterion.
However:
- Canada’s educational qualifications add more points to the CRS score.
- Any foreign education qualification can add additional points if it undergoes an ECA.
4. Minimum FSWP Selection Score
The applicant must comply with the admissibility criteria of Canada, which include:
- Medical report
- Criminal records check
- Security screening
4. Minimum FSWP Selection Score
Candidates must plan to settle outside the province of Quebec after becoming permanent residents.
Work Experience That Cannot Be Counted
The following work experience is generally not recognized:
- Internships that do not pay
- Voluntary work
- Most work done while studying
- Self-employment (excluding approved medical occupations)
CEC Application Process for International Graduates
Step 1: Complete a Canadian Study Program
Graduate from a Canadian study program offered by a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
Step 2: Obtain a PGWP
File an application for a PGWP and acquire eligible work experience in Canada.
Step 3: Build Skilled Employment Experience
Gain one year (1560 hours) of work experience in a skilled occupation which is classified as TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3.
Step 4: Take an Approved Language Test
The accepted language tests are:
- IELTS General Training
- CELPIP General
- TEF Canada
- TCF Canada
Step 5: Create an Express Entry Profile
Submit your profile through the Express Entry system.
Step 6: Receive an Invitation to Apply
Invitations to apply for permanent residency will be issued to those who have a competitive CRS score.
Step 7: Submit a Permanent Residence Application
Documents required include:
- Results of the language test
- Proof of employment
- Medical examination
- Police certificates
Step 8: Receive Permanent Residence
Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) will be sent to successful applicants and they become permanent residents of Canada.
CEC Application Process for Temporary Foreign Workers
Step 1: Maintain Legal Work Authorization
Hold a valid work permit or authorized status while working in Canada.
Step 2: Accumulate Eligible Work Experience
Obtain at least one year of relevant work experience in a skilled occupation in Canada.
Step 3: Meet Language Standards
Pass a recognized language assessment and earn the appropriate CLB.
Step 4: Gather Supporting Documents
Prepare:
- Passport
- Language test results
- Employment reference letters
- Educational documents (if applicable)
Step 5: Enter the Express Entry Pool
Create and submit an Express Entry profile.
Step 6: Receive an ITA
Selected candidates are notified via Express Entry with an Invitation to Apply.
Step 7: Submit the PR Application
Submit all necessary documents and fill out the permanent residence application.
Step 8: Become a Permanent Resident
After approval, receive your COPR and transition from temporary status to permanent residency.
Common Questions
Can experience from different employers be combined?
Yes. Eligible work experience obtained from multiple employers can be combined to meet the minimum requirement.
Does Canadian work experience improve CRS scores?
Yes. Canadian work experience can contribute valuable CRS points and improve a candidate’s ranking in the Express Entry pool.
Which occupations are eligible for CEC?
Eligible work experience must fall within TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 categories under Canada’s National Occupation Classification system.