Canada · skilled migration
Express Entry — Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
Federal permanent-residence stream for applicants with qualifying Canadian work experience.
Last reviewed:
Overview
The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) is one of three Express Entry streams. It targets candidates with at least 1 year of skilled Canadian work experience in the past 3 years. CEC applicants typically score well in the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) and benefit from regular draws.
Processing time
6 months service standard for invited applications (actual varies).
See source window: 5 months – 6 months →Government fees
CAD 1,525 principal applicant (includes RPRF); plus CAD 825 per dependant child and CAD 825 spouse.
Typical duration
Permanent residence.
Primary source
IRCC — Canadian Experience Class · Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Link last verified:
Eligibility
Typical criteria
At least 12 months of skilled Canadian work experience (NOC TEER 0, 1, 2 or 3) in the 3 years before applying.
Language test meeting minimum CLB level (CLB 7 for TEER 0/1, CLB 5 for TEER 2/3).
Intent to reside outside Quebec.
Common blockers
Experience classified at TEER 4 or 5 (unskilled under Express Entry).
CRS score below cut-off in category-based or general draws.
Typical evidence
Letters from Canadian employers documenting duties.
Language test results (IELTS/CELPIP/TEF).
Police certificates from every country lived in 6+ months since age 18.
Application pathway
Step 1
Create Express Entry profile
Submit profile to the Express Entry pool with language, education, and experience details.
Step 2
Receive Invitation to Apply (ITA)
ITAs are issued based on CRS score and draw type.
Step 3
Submit complete application within 60 days
Upload documents and pay fees.
Step 4
IRCC processing and landing
Once approved, land in Canada as permanent resident.
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Related routes
Express Entry — Federal Skilled Worker (FSW)
Federal points-based permanent residence for skilled workers without prior Canadian experience.
Express Entry — Federal Skilled Trades (FST)
Permanent residence for qualified tradespeople with a Canadian job offer or provincial certification.
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
Open work permit for graduates of eligible Canadian Designated Learning Institutions.
Frequently asked questions
Does studying in Canada count toward CEC?
Time spent studying itself does not count. Post-graduation work experience under a Post-Graduation Work Permit at TEER 0–3 level does count, provided it is continuous and meets the skilled-occupation definition.
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