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Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
Table of Contents
Overview
The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) represents one of the most sought-after ways of immigration in Canada using the Express Entry system. This program is made for people who have had some skilled employment in Canada and now want to apply for permanent residency.
If you are an international student or a foreign worker in Canada, this is a great opportunity to establish yourself in Canada using your work experience here.
Who Can Benefit from the CEC Program?
The CEC program would be perfect for:
- International students who have acquired work experience in Canada after finishing their education in Canada.
- Temporary foreign workers currently working in Canada in qualified occupations.
- People who have settled themselves in Canadian work environments and desire to settle permanently.
Key Eligibility Requirements
Certain conditions have been set out by the Canadian government to determine eligibility for individuals seeking to obtain permanent resident status through the Canadian Experience Class.
1. Skilled Canadian Work Experience
Applicants must:
- Possess at least 1 year (equivalent to 1,560 hours) of skilled work experience in Canada in the last 3 years.
- Have worked in skilled occupations that fall under categories of TEER 0, 1, 2, and 3 of the National Occupational Classification (NOC).
- Gather work experience while having the right to work in Canada.
- Gain paid work experience (salary or commission).
2. Language Proficiency
Applicants must demonstrate language ability through an approved English or French language test.
Required Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) levels:
| Occupation Category | IntakeMinimum CLB Requirement |
|---|---|
| TEER 0 or TEER 1 | CLB 7 |
| TEER 2 or TEER 3 | CLB 5 |
Language proficiency must be demonstrated in:
- Reading
- Writing
- Listening
- Speaking
3. Educational Qualifications
There is no compulsory educational requirement for the CEC.
However:
- Your Canadian educational credentials will help boost your CRS score.
- Your foreign credentials might also help you get points through an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA).
4. Admissibility Requirements
Applicants need to be admissible to Canada, which includes the following requirements to be met:
- A medical examination
- A background check
- A criminal record check
5. Settlement Intent
Candidates must intend to live outside the province of Quebec after obtaining permanent residence.
Work Experience That Does Not Qualify
These experiences are usually ineligible:
- Internship experiences that are unpaid
- Volunteer experiences
- Most work done during the period of full-time education
- Self-employment (except for some selected medical practitioners)
CEC Pathway for International Graduates
International students can use the following roadmap to become permanent residents through the Canadian Experience Class.
Step 1: Graduate from a Canadian Institution
Complete an eligible program at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
Step 2: Secure a Post-Graduation Work Permit
Apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) to gain Canadian work experience.
Step 3: Build Skilled Work Experience
Work in a TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 occupation and gain 1,560 hours of paid work experience.
Step 4: Complete a Language Test
Complete a recognized language test approved by IRCC:
- IELTS General Training
- CELPIP General
- TEF Canada
- TCF Canada
Step 5: Enter the Express Entry Pool
Complete your Express Entry profile and submit your credentials.
Step 6: Receive an Invitation to Apply
Candidates with a favorable CRS score may receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
Step 7: Submit Your Permanent Residence Application
Submit the following:
- Results of your language test
- Evidence of your employment history
- Results of your medical examination
- Police clearance certificate(s)
Step 8: Obtain Permanent Residence
Once approved, receive your Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and begin your life as a Canadian permanent resident.
CEC Pathway for Temporary Foreign Workers
Foreign workers already employed in Canada may follow this process:
Step 1: Work Legally in Canada
You must have a valid work permit or authorized status to work.
Step 2: Gain Eligible Skilled Experience
You must obtain at least one year of skilled work experience in Canada in an eligible occupation.
Step 3: Meet Language Requirements
You must complete a language test and meet the required CLB score.
Step 4: Prepare Supporting Documentation
You must prepare:
- Your passport
- Language test results
- Employment reference letters
- Educational documents (if applicable)
Step 5: Submit an Express Entry Profile
Enter the Express Entry system and receive a CRS score.
Step 6: Receive an ITA
Those candidates selected in the Express Entry draw will receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
Step 7: Apply for Permanent Residence
You must submit the application for Permanent Residence along with all required support documents.
Step 8: Become a Permanent Resident
Upon approval, obtain your COPR and officially transition from temporary status to permanent residency.