What is the Canadian Experience Class?

The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) is a specialized immigration program designed for individuals who have acquired at least one year of skilled work experience in Canada within the last three years.

It aims to provide a streamlined pathway to permanent residency for those who have already adapted to the Canadian workforce and society.

CEC applicants need to demonstrate their proficiency in either English or French and showcase their work experience in skilled occupations, typically classified under skill type 0 (managerial occupations), skill level A (professional occupations), or skill level B (technical occupations and skilled trades) of the National Occupational Classification (NOC) system. Successful candidates possess a deep understanding of Canadian work culture, have established networks, and are often well-integrated into their communities.

Through the Express Entry system, candidates create a profile, and if they meet the minimum criteria, such as work experience, language proficiency, education, and adaptability, they enter the Express Entry pool.

The CEC candidates are then ranked based on the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score and regularly invited to apply for permanent residency. The program aims to retain skilled workers who have already contributed positively to the Canadian economy and society by offering them a clear pathway to settle permanently in Canada.

How do I get into the CEC?

To qualify for the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) in Canada, individuals must meet specific criteria:

  1. Skilled Work Experience: Applicants must have acquired at least one year (1,560 hours) of skilled, full-time work experience in Canada within the last three years before applying. This work experience should fall under skill type 0 (managerial occupations), skill level A (professional occupations), or skill level B (technical occupations and skilled trades) of the National Occupational Classification (NOC) system.
  2. Language Proficiency: Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in either English or French by taking an approved language test (such as IELTS for English or TEF for French). Minimum scores are required in reading, writing, listening, and speaking.
  3. Plan to Live Outside Quebec: The CEC is for candidates intending to reside in any Canadian province or territory except Quebec. Quebec has its own selection process for skilled workers.
  4. Adherence to Work Permit Conditions: Applicants must have worked in Canada with proper authorization, meaning they held valid work permits or were authorized to work without a permit (like those with implied status, Post-Graduation Work Permit holders, or work permit exemptions).
  5. Intention to Reside in a Province Other Than Quebec: The CEC is for those intending to live in any Canadian province or territory except Quebec. Quebec has its own selection process for skilled workers.
  6. Express Entry Profile: Candidates must create an Express Entry profile and meet the minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score required in regular draws to be invited to apply for permanent residency under the CEC.

Information on other Programs related to the CEC

  • Express Entry System

    The Express Entry System is a points-based system used by the Canadian government to manage applications for permanent residency for skilled workers.

    More Info 

  • Federal Skilled Worker Program

    The Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) is a key pathway for skilled workers seeking permanent residency in Canada.

    More Info 

  • Federal Skilled Trades Program

    The Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) in Canada is specifically designed for individuals with experience in skilled trades who seek to become permanent residents. It targets those who possess qualifications in specific trades and can contribute to the Canadian labor market.

    More Info 

FAQ

Q: Can international students in Canada qualify for the Canadian Experience Class (CEC)?

A: Yes, international students in Canada can qualify for the CEC if they have obtained at least one year of skilled work experience in Canada after completing their studies. The work experience gained after graduating from a Canadian post-secondary institution can contribute towards eligibility under the CEC, provided it meets the criteria of skilled work experience in NOC skill levels 0, A, or B.

Q: Do candidates need a job offer to apply for permanent residency through the Canadian Experience Class (CEC)?

A: No, candidates applying under the CEC category do not necessarily need a job offer to be eligible for permanent residency. However, having a valid job offer can significantly enhance their chances of receiving a higher Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, which increases the likelihood of being invited to apply for permanent residency during regular Express Entry draws. Candidates gain points for having a job offer, but it is not a mandatory requirement for eligibility under the CEC.

Q: Can self-employment or freelance work experience be considered for the Canadian Experience Class (CEC)?

A: Generally, self-employment or freelance work experience may not be considered for the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) unless it aligns with the criteria of skilled work experience as defined by the National Occupational Classification (NOC) system. Work experience gained while self-employed or freelancing may be assessed if it meets the requirements of NOC skill type 0 (managerial occupations), skill level A (professional occupations), or skill level B (technical occupations and skilled trades), and if the applicant can provide documented evidence of their work, including clients, projects, responsibilities, and duration of work. Each case is assessed individually, and applicants need to demonstrate that their self-employment or freelance work was in a skilled occupation and contributed to the Canadian labor market in a substantial and recognized manner.