Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
Transform Your Canadian Work Experience
The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) is one of the three main immigration programs managed under Canada’s Express Entry system. It is designed for temporary foreign workers (TFWs) and international graduates who have gained skilled work experience in Canada and want to transition from temporary status to permanent residency.
The program recognizes the value of Canadian work experience and helps qualified individuals integrate quickly into the Canadian labor market. Applicants are ranked using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), and those with high CRS scores may receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency.
Benefits of the Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
Faster Processing: Most CEC applications are processed within six months after submission.
No Settlement Funds Required: Unlike other Express Entry programs, CEC applicants don’t need to show proof of settlement funds if they are already working in Canada.
Higher CRS Points: Canadian work experience gives you an advantage in the Express Entry pool.
Supports Career Growth: Prior Canadian work experience makes it easier to secure jobs and settle in Canada.
Pathway for Students & Workers: Tailored for international students and temporary foreign workers already contributing to Canada’s economy.
Eligibility Requirements for CEC
Work Experience
- At least 12 months of skilled Canadian work experience in the last three years (full-time or an equal amount in part-time).
- This can be full-time or part-time, but it must be under a valid work permit. The work should fall under one or more of the eligible skill types listed in the National Occupational Classification (NOC).
Language Ability
- For TEER 0 or 1 jobs: Minimum CLB 7 in English or French.
- For TEER 2 or 3 jobs: Minimum CLB 5 in English or French.
Residency
- Must have gained work experience while authorized to work in Canada.
- Must plan to live outside Quebec (Quebec has its own immigration programs).
Education
- There is no minimum education requirement.
- However, candidates can improve their CRS score by providing Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) for foreign education or proof of Canadian education.
Admissibility
- Applicants must be admissible to Canada, meaning they have no serious medical or criminal issues that would make them ineligible.
FSTP Application Process
Check Eligibility – Ensure you meet the program requirements.
Create an Express Entry Profile – Submit your details to the Express Entry pool.
Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) – If your CRS score is high enough, IRCC may invite you to apply for permanent residence.
Submit Your Application (e-APR) – Apply online within 60 days with supporting documents (language test results, proof of work experience, police certificates, medical exam results).
Application Processing – IRCC processes most complete applications in about six months.
Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) – If approved, you will receive your COPR and instructions to finalize your landing in Canada.
Canadian Experience Class – CRS Points
CEC candidates are ranked in the Express Entry pool using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). Points are awarded for:
Steps to Apply for the Canadian Experience Class
Check Eligibility
Ensure you meet the minimum requirements for Canadian work experience and language ability.
Take a Language Test
Complete an approved test in English (IELTS, CELPIP) or French (TEF, TCF) to prove language proficiency.
Gather Documents
Work reference letters, pay stubs, tax documents, language test results, and (optional) ECA for education.
Create an Express Entry Profile
Enter your details into the IRCC system to receive a CRS score.
Wait for an Invitation to Apply (ITA)
If you meet the CRS cutoff in a draw, IRCC will issue an ITA for permanent residency.
Submit e-APR
Within 60 days of receiving an ITA, submit your electronic Application for Permanent Residence (e-APR) with all required documents.
Receive Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR)
Once approved, you and your family will receive COPR and can officially settle as permanent residents in Canada.