Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

A pathway to permanent residency for skilled workers with Canadian experience.

What is the Canadian Experience Class?

The CEC is part of Canada’s Express Entry system and is tailored for skilled workers who have gained work experience in Canada and wish to become permanent residents.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the Canadian Experience Class, you must meet the following requirements:

  • Work Experience: At least 1 year of skilled work experience in Canada (full-time or equivalent part-time) within the last 3 years in a NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 occupation.
  • Language Proficiency: Meet the minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) based on your job type:
    • CLB 7 for NOC TEER 0 or 1 jobs
    • CLB 5 for NOC TEER 2 or 3 jobs
    Prove proficiency with an approved language test like IELTS or TEF.
  • Work Authorization: Your work experience must have been gained while legally authorized to work in Canada.
  • Admissibility: Pass medical and security checks to ensure you’re admissible to Canada.

Advantages of the Canadian Experience Class

  • No proof of settlement funds is required for CEC applicants.
  • Streamlined application process through the Express Entry system.
  • Applicants are well-integrated into Canadian society and workforce due to prior work experience in Canada.
  • Fast processing times, with most applications completed within six months.

How to Apply

Follow these steps to apply under the Canadian Experience Class:

  1. Create an Express Entry profile and provide details about your work experience, education, and language skills.
  2. Wait for an Invitation to Apply (ITA) if your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score meets the cut-off in a draw.
  3. Submit a complete application within 60 days of receiving the ITA.
  4. Provide required documents, including proof of work experience, language test results, and police certificates.