What is Canadian Experience Class (CEC)?

The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) is one of the three immigration programs under Express Entry, designed for skilled workers with Canadian work experience who want to become permanent residents.

Eligibility Requirements:

To qualify for CEC, applicants must meet these criteria:

• Work Experience:

  • At least one year of full-time (or equivalent part-time) skilled work experience in Canada within the last three years before applying.

  • The work must fall under NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 (managerial, professional, or technical/skilled trades jobs).

  • Self-employment and work experience gained while studying in Canada do not count.

• Language Proficiency:

  • TEER 0, 1 job: CLB 7 (IELTS: Listening 6.0, Reading 6.0, Writing 6.0, Speaking 6.0).

  • TEER 2, 3 jobs: CLB 5 (IELTS: Listening 5.0, Reading 4.0, Writing 5.0, Speaking 5.0).

• Intent to Live Outside Quebec:

  • Since Quebec has its own immigration programs, CEC applicants must plan to live in any province except Quebec.
    

Advantages of CEC:

✅ No education requirement (though having a degree improves CRS score).
✅ Faster processing times (usually 6 months).
✅ No need for a job offer.
✅ Higher chances of selection for those already living and working in Canada.