CANADIAN EXPERIENCE CLASS (CEC)

The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) is part of Canada’s Express Entry system. It provides a streamlined pathway to permanent residence for skilled workers who have gained recent Canadian work experience.

Eligibility Requirements

  • At least 12 months of full-time (or equivalent part-time) skilled work experience in Canada within the last three years.
  • Work must fall under NOC skill type 0, A, or B.
  • Meet required language proficiency levels in English or French.
  • Plan to live outside the province of Quebec.

Application Steps

  1. Create an Express Entry profile under the CEC stream.
  2. Receive a CRS score based on work experience, education, language skills, and age.
  3. If selected, receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) during an Express Entry draw.
  4. Submit your permanent residence application within 60 days of receiving an ITA.

Benefits of CEC

  • Faster pathway to permanent residence for individuals with Canadian work experience.
  • Seamless transition from temporary worker or graduate status to PR.
  • Extra CRS points for having Canadian work experience.
  • Access to healthcare, education, and other PR benefits.
Tip: Gaining one year of full-time skilled work experience in Canada while on a valid work permit makes you eligible to apply under the CEC stream.
Note: For updated eligibility criteria and CRS cutoff scores, visit the official IRCC website.