The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) is a pathway for individuals with work experience in Canada to gain permanent residency. Designed to support the transition from temporary to permanent residence, it acknowledges the valuable contributions made by skilled workers.
Eligibility Criteria
- Work Experience: Applicants must have at least one year of skilled work experience in Canada within the last three years.
- Language Ability: They need to meet the required language levels for their job in either English or French.
- Education: Although education is not a requirement for the CEC, applicants can earn points for having a certificate, diploma, or degree from a Canadian secondary (high school) or post-secondary school, or equivalent in another country.
Eligibility to maintain or gain this work experience is crucial, as it must be achieved with proper work authorization.
Program Objectives
The CEC aims to retain individuals who have established themselves economically and socially in Canada. It supports Canada’s economy by:
- Selecting candidates who have already demonstrated their ability to integrate into Canadian society and the workforce.
- Addressing skill shortages by keeping skilled workers in the country.
The program bolsters Canada’s economic fortitude by making it possible for workers to contribute long-term to the economy.
Application Process for CEC
Applying for the Canadian Experience Class involves gathering specific documents, understanding the processing times, and executing a series of steps meticulously.
Required Documents
- Proof of Work Experience: Applicants must provide documentation proving at least one year of skilled work experience in Canada within the last three years.
- Language Test Results: Evidence of proficiency in either English or French is necessary, meeting the Canadian Language Benchmark.
- Educational Credentials: If applicable, an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) for education obtained outside Canada.
- Identification Documents: Valid passports and any other required identity documents.
- Other Documents: Police certificates, medical exams, and proof of fund documents may be required.
Processing Times
- CEC applications are processed through the Express Entry system, which typically results in quicker processing times.
- The average time frame is approximately 3–4 months once a complete application is submitted. However, times can vary based on individual circumstances and application volume.
Steps to Apply
- Check Eligibility: Before applying, individuals must ensure they meet the eligibility requirements.
- Profile Creation: Create an Express Entry profile on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.
- Receive Invitation to Apply (ITA): If eligible, applicants will be placed into a pool of candidates and possibly be issued an ITA based on their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score.
- Submit Application: Once an ITA is received, a detailed application must be submitted within 60 days.
- Biometrics Appointment: Candidates may be required to attend a biometrics appointment.
- Await Decision: After submission, applicants wait for the final decision while IRCC processes the application.
Living in Canada After CEC Approval
After obtaining approval through the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), individuals can fully embrace the Canadian way of life, transitioning from temporary status to permanent residents.
Permanent Residence Status
Once approved for CEC, individuals gain permanent residence status, allowing them to live, work, and study anywhere in Canada indefinitely. This status comes with a Permanent Resident Card, which is proof of their legal residence in Canada and is required for travel outside Canada.
Rights and Responsibilities
As a permanent resident through the CEC, individuals have the same rights as Canadian citizens, such as access to universal healthcare and social services. Importantly, they are also protected under Canadian law and the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. However, they must fulfill certain responsibilities, like paying taxes and respecting all Canadian laws at the federal, provincial, and municipal levels.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) is designed specifically for individuals with work experience in Canada, aimed at facilitating their transition to permanent residency.
What are the eligibility criteria for the Canadian Experience Class program?
To qualify for the CEC, applicants must have at least one year of full-time skilled work experience in Canada within the last three years and meet the necessary language levels for their job. Eligibility to apply for the Canadian Experience Class depends on the National Occupational Classification (NOC) of the work experience.
How can I calculate points for the Canadian Experience Class through the Comprehensive Ranking System?
Points for the CEC through the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) are calculated based on factors such as education, work experience, language proficiency, and other elements. Calculating points for the Canadian Experience Class follows the CRS tool provided by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
What constitutes valid work experience for the Canadian Experience Class?
Valid work experience for the CEC involves at least one year of full-time, skilled work in Canada within the last three years. This experience must be gained while under a legal temporary resident status with authorization to work. The Canadian skilled work experience has to align with relevant NOC codes 0, A, or B.
What documents are required to prove work experience for the Canadian Experience Class?
Applicants must provide reference letters from previous employers that detail the position held, job duties, duration of employment, and hours worked. Proof of work experience must corroborate with the NOC requirements for the Canadian Experience Class.
What is considered a competitive score for immigration through the Canadian Experience Class?
A competitive score for immigration through the CEC typically exceeds the minimum threshold of the latest Express Entry draw. Applicants with higher scores have a greater chance of receiving a Canadian Experience Class invitation to apply for permanent residence.
What is the process for applying to the Canadian Experience Class within the Express Entry system?
The process entails creating an Express Entry profile, meeting the CEC criteria, and then potentially receiving an invitation to apply based on their CRS score. After receiving an invitation, applicants have 60 days to submit a complete application. Learn about the Process for applying to the Canadian Experience Class on the government of Canada’s website.
