Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) is a highly regarded immigration pathway designed for temporary foreign workers and international graduates who have gained valuable work experience in Canada and are seeking permanent residency.
Why Choose the Canadian Experience Class?
The CEC is part of a strategic initiative by both the federal and provincial governments to attract skilled workers and international students to enhance Canada’s workforce. Research from Statistics Canada highlights that individuals with Canadian work experience have an advantage in the job market, making it easier for them to integrate smoothly into the Canadian workforce.
Candidates applying through the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) also benefit from additional points under the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) in the Express Entry system, increasing their chances of securing permanent residency. On top of that, successful applicants often receive their permanent resident status within a swift six months.
One notable benefit of the CEC is that applicants do not need to demonstrate settlement funds, a requirement for other Express Entry programs.
Minimum Eligibility Requirements for CEC Applicants
To qualify for the CEC, applicants must meet specific criteria related to work experience, education, age, and language proficiency in English or French.
Skilled Work Experience
The CEC recognizes work experience in skilled occupations as defined by Canada’s National Occupational Classification (NOC) system. Qualifying skilled occupations fall under the following NOC TEER categories:
- TEER 0
- TEER 1
- TEER 2
Applicants must demonstrate that they performed the key duties of their occupation as outlined in the NOC description and meet the following criteria:
- Work experience must have been gained in Canada while holding a temporary resident status with authorization to work.
- A minimum of one year of skilled work experience within the past three years is required. This can be achieved through:
- Full-time work: 30 hours per week for 12 months (1,560 hours).
- Full-time work at more than one job: 30 hours per week over 12 months at multiple jobs (1,560 hours).
- Part-time work: A total of 1,560 hours worked over a longer period.
Note: Self-employment and work experience gained while being a full-time student do not count towards this requirement.
Language Requirements
Applicants must take an approved language test in English or French and meet the following minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) levels:
- CLB 7 for TEER 0 or TEER 1 jobs.
- CLB 5 for TEER 2 or TEER 3 jobs.
Language test results are valid for two years and must be current at the time of application.
Education
There is no formal education requirement for the CEC. However, candidates can improve their CRS score if they:
- Have completed education in Canada at either the secondary (high school) or post-secondary level.
- Have completed foreign education and obtained an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) from a designated organization, confirming that their education is equivalent to a Canadian qualification.
Non-Eligibility for CEC
You are not eligible for the CEC if:
- You are a refugee claimant in Canada.
- You are working without legal authorization.
- Your work experience was gained without temporary resident status.
How the Immigration Process Works with the CEC
The Canadian Experience Class operates within the Express Entry system. Applicants with Canadian work experience have a strong chance of qualifying for the CEC. Depending on their background, they may also qualify for the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) or the Federal Skilled Trades Program.
IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) conducts Express Entry draws approximately every two weeks, inviting candidates with the highest CRS scores to apply for permanent residency. CRS scores are determined based on factors such as age, education, language skills, work experience, and Canadian experience. Once a candidate receives an Invitation to Apply (ITA), they can submit their application for permanent residency.
Start Your Journey Today
The Canadian Experience Class provides an excellent pathway for skilled workers and international graduates to make Canada their permanent home. With its streamlined process and distinct advantages, the CEC is an attractive choice for those ready to build their future in Canada.
If you meet the eligibility criteria, don’t miss the opportunity to apply for the CEC and take the next step towards permanent residency in Canada! Book your consultation with our RCIC today to get started.


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Top Source Countries for Immigrants (2023):
- India
- China
- Philippines
- Nigeria
- Pakistan
Immigration Levels Plan 2024–2026:
The Canadian government aims to welcome 465,000 permanent residents in 2024, 485,000 in 2025, and 500,000 in 2026. This strategy reflects the country’s commitment to addressing labour shortages, promoting economic growth, and supporting humanitarian efforts.
Economic Immigrants:
Approximately 60% of Canada’s permanent residents arrive through economic immigration streams, such as the Express Entry system and Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).
Aging Population:
By 2030, Canada’s aging population will increase the demand for skilled workers, with immigrants projected to fill a significant portion of these gaps. Currently, immigrants make up more than 25% of Canada’s workforce.
Immigration and the Economy:
In 2022, immigrants contributed significantly to Canada’s GDP growth, with highly skilled newcomers filling critical roles in sectors such as technology, healthcare, and engineering.
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Permanent Residents Economic Immigration
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