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At Parsis Immigration, we understand that transitioning to permanent residence is a significant step in your life. The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) is an immigration program tailored for individuals who have already integrated into the Canadian workforce. Whether you are an international graduate or a temporary foreign worker, the CEC offers a streamlined pathway to make Canada your permanent home.
Complete the form to begin your immigration process.
The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) is part of Canada’s Express Entry system, designed specifically for those who have gained skilled work experience in Canada. Introduced in 2008, the CEC allows temporary workers and international graduates to leverage their Canadian experience and transition to permanent residence.
Here are some key reasons why the CEC program might be the right choice for you:
The CEC program offers one of the quickest routes to permanent residence, with processing times often as short as six months. This means less waiting and more certainty about your future in Canada.
Unlike other immigration programs, the CEC does not require you to show proof of funds. This can simplify the application process and reduce the documentation you need to provide.
Canadian work experience is highly valued and directly impacts your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score within Express Entry. This experience can make you a strong candidate in the eyes of Canadian employers and immigration officials.
The CEC does not have strict educational requirements, making it accessible to a wide range of candidates. However, having educational credentials can boost your CRS score and improve your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
The CEC program accepts work experience from a variety of job categories under the National Occupational Classification (NOC) TEER categories 0, 1, 2, and 3. Whether you’re a professional, technician, or tradesperson, your experience may qualify.
To qualify for the CEC program, you must meet specific criteria. Here’s what you need to know:
Example: If you worked as a software developer (TEER 1) for one year on a valid work permit, you are likely eligible for the CEC.
Tip: Ensure that your job duties align with the NOC description for your occupation to avoid any issues during the application process.
Tip: If your language test results are close to expiring, consider retaking the test to ensure your scores are valid when you submit your Express Entry profile.
Example: If you completed a diploma in Canada, this can significantly boost your CRS score, especially when combined with your work experience.
Tip: Even if education isn’t mandatory, providing your credentials can give you a competitive edge in the Express Entry pool.
Tip: It’s wise to gather your police certificates and undergo a medical exam early to avoid delays once you receive an ITA.
Tip: Clearly indicate your intention to reside outside Quebec when completing your Express Entry profile to ensure your eligibility.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to applying for the Canadian Experience Class:
Begin by ensuring you meet all the eligibility criteria. Confirm your work experience, language proficiency, and other requirements to avoid any surprises later.Begin by ensuring you meet all the eligibility criteria. Confirm your work experience, language proficiency, and other requirements to avoid any surprises later.
Once you’re confident in your eligibility, create an Express Entry profile on the IRCC website. You’ll be ranked against other candidates based on your CRS score, which considers factors like age, education, language skills, and work experience.
Tip: Double-check all information before submitting your profile. Inaccurate details can lead to delays or even a refusal.
If your CRS score is lower than desired, consider strategies to improve it:
Example: If your CRS score is 450 but recent draws have a cutoff of 470, retaking your language test for a higher score might push you over the threshold.
IRCC conducts Express Entry draws regularly. If your CRS score meets or exceeds the cutoff, you’ll receive an ITA. This is your chance to apply for permanent residence.
Tip: Be ready to act quickly once you receive an ITA. You’ll have 60 days to submit a complete application, so it’s best to gather documents like police certificates and work reference letters in advance.
Submit your application within the 60-day window. Include all required documents, such as:
Tip: Use a checklist to ensure you don’t miss any critical documents. Incomplete applications can be delayed or refused.
As part of your application, you must complete a medical exam and submit police certificates. These checks ensure you meet Canada’s health and security standards.
Tip: Schedule your medical exam with an IRCC-recognized panel physician as soon as you receive your ITA to avoid last-minute stress.
An immigration officer will review your application to ensure it meets all requirements. If everything is in order, your application should be processed within six months.
Tip: You can check the status of your application online. Be patient and avoid making significant life changes until your application is approved.
Once your application is approved, you’ll receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR). This document is essential for completing your landing process in Canada.
Complete the landing process at a Canadian port of entry if you’re outside Canada, or at an IRCC office if you’re already in the country. An officer will sign and date your COPR, officially granting you permanent resident status.
Tip: Keep your COPR safe and bring it with you whenever you travel outside Canada until you receive your PR card.
After landing, apply for your Permanent Resident (PR) card. This card is proof of your status in Canada and is required if you plan to travel internationally.
Tip: If you need to travel before receiving your PR card, ensure you have your COPR and passport to re-enter Canada.
Navigating the Canadian Experience Class application process can be complex, but Parsis Immigration is here to help every step of the way. Here’s how we make the process easier:
Our experienced consultants provide personalized advice tailored to your unique circumstances, ensuring you understand each step of the process.
From assessing your eligibility to submitting your application and beyond, we’re with you every step of the way.
Your success is our top priority. We’re dedicated to helping you achieve your goal of becoming a permanent resident of Canada.
If you’re ready to take the next step toward permanent residence in Canada, contact Parsis Immigration today. Let us help you turn your Canadian work experience into a permanent future in this beautiful country.
Eligibility for the CEC requires at least 12 months of skilled work experience in Canada within the last three years. You must also meet language proficiency requirements and plan to reside outside Quebec.
No, proof of settlement funds is not required for the CEC, unlike other Express Entry programs such as the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP).
Yes, as long as you meet the eligibility criteria, you can apply for the CEC from anywhere in the world.
No, work experience gained while you were a full-time student (such as during co-op or internships) does not count towards the CEC requirements.
Canadian work experience is highly valued and can significantly boost your CRS score, making you a more competitive candidate in the Express Entry pool.
If your CRS score is below the cut-off, consider retaking your language test, gaining additional work experience, or obtaining an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) to improve your score.
| Criteria | Canadian Experience Class (CEC) | Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) | Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eligibility | 12 months of Canadian work experience | At least 1 year of skilled work experience (can be outside Canada) | At least 2 years of work experience in a skilled trade |
| Language Requirement | CLB 7 for TEER 0, 1; CLB 5 for TEER 2, 3 | CLB 7 in all abilities | CLB 5 in speaking and listening, CLB 4 in reading and writing |
| Proof of Funds Required | No | Yes | Yes |
| Education Requirement | Not mandatory (but can earn points) | Mandatory (ECA required if foreign education) | Not mandatory (but can earn points) |
| Processing Time | 6 months or less | 6 months or less | 6 months or less |
| Work Experience Recognition | Canadian work experience only | Canadian or foreign work experience | Canadian or foreign work experience in a skilled trade |
| Admissibility | Must be admissible to Canada | Must be admissible to Canada | Must be admissible to Canada |