Canadian Experience Class

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Canada, renowned for its diverse culture, thriving economy, and high quality of life, has long been a dream destination for individuals seeking new opportunities. To facilitate the immigration process for skilled workers already living in Canada, the Canadian government introduced the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) program. In this article, we will delve into the CEC, shedding light on its eligibility criteria and the application process.

Canadian Experience Class CEC

Eligibility Criteria for Canadian Experience Class CEC

The Canadian Experience Class provides a pathway to permanent residency for individuals who have gained valuable work experience in Canada. To be eligible for the CEC program, applicants must fulfill the following criteria:

Work Experience

a. One Year of Skilled Work Experience: Candidates must have acquired at least one year of full-time skilled work experience in Canada within the last three years. Alternatively, an equivalent amount of part-time work experience can be considered.

Language Ability

b. Language Proficiency: Proficiency in English or French is essential for successful integration into Canadian society. Applicants are required to take a language test approved by the Canadian government, such as the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) or the Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP).

Language ability depends on the NOC type of job and must know the following requirements.

  • Approved Language test for reading, writing, listening, and speaking.
  • Meet the minimum language requirements for the type of job.
  • CLB 7 for NOC 0 or A jobs.
  • CLB 5 for NOC B jobs.

Validation of the language test is two years.

Living outside Quebec

c. Plan to Live Outside Quebec: As the province of Quebec operates its own immigration programs, individuals who intend to settle in Quebec are not eligible for the CEC program. However, those who wish to reside in other provinces and territories in Canada can apply for the CEC.

Education

d. Educational Qualifications: While having a Canadian educational qualification is not mandatory for the CEC, candidates with Canadian credentials may receive additional points during the evaluation process. However, foreign qualifications are also recognized and valued. However, if you want to advance your rank for migration needs, there are two steps to do that.

  • By moving to a school in Canada, you can achieve the points for a certificate or degree. 
  • If you are a foreigner and have foreign education, then 
  • A concluded foreign credential, and
  • An Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) record for settlement proposals from a preferred organization shows that your education is equal to the preferred degree or certificate.

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Minimum Requirements For Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

You should meet the minimum requirements for eligibility for this class.

  • You must have the lowest one year of experience working in Canada in the last three years. 
  • You can also serve various part-time duties to fulfilling this demand.
  • You must have obtained your work experience while working in Canada under limited resident status, including permission to work.

Non-eligibility of Canadian Experience Class appears when:

  • You’re a foreign applicant in Canada.
  • You’re working without permission or a valid signature.
  • Your work practice was obtained without resident status in Canada.

Advantages and Disadvantages of CEC

  • CEC applicants should have at least one year of Canadian business practice. This is a precious factor under the CRS. Because the necessary documentation is minimum, CEC petitions are processed instantly, often within three to four months.
  • Yet if you are qualified to apply under the FSW program, there is no guarantee that you will obtain an invitation to join.

How to Apply for the Canadian Experience Class CEC | CEC application process

CEC application process for the Canadian Experience Class is straightforward, designed to facilitate skilled workers who have already established themselves in Canada. The steps to apply for the CEC program are as follows:

a. Gather Required Documents: Start by gathering all the necessary documents to support your application. This typically includes identification documents, language test results, work experience letters, and educational credentials.

b. Create an Express Entry Profile: The Canadian Experience Class operates within the Express Entry system. Create an Express Entry profile online and provide accurate information about your qualifications, work experience, language proficiency, and other relevant details.

c. Receive Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) Score: Once your Express Entry profile is complete, you will be assigned a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score based on various factors, such as age, education, work experience, language proficiency, and adaptability. The CRS score determines your rank in the Express Entry pool.

d. Wait for an Invitation to Apply (ITA): The highest-ranked candidates in the Express Entry pool are invited to apply for permanent residency in regular draws conducted by the Canadian government. If you receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA), you can proceed to the next step.

e. Submit Application for Permanent Residency: Upon receiving an ITA, you have 60 days to submit a complete application for permanent residency under the Canadian Experience Class. Pay the required fees, provide supporting documents, and ensure that all information is accurate and up to date.

f. Undergo Medical and Security Checks: As part of the application process, you will need to undergo medical examinations to ensure that you meet the health requirements set by the Canadian government. You will also be subject to security checks to ensure admissibility.

g. Receive Confirmation of Permanent Residency: If your application is approved, you will receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residency (COPR) document. This document allows you to finalize your plans for settling in Canada and grants you the status of a permanent resident.

IEC in 2024-2026 Immigration Levels Plan

Canada’s new immigration levels plan sets targets for 485,000 new permanent residents in 2024, with planned increases to 500,000 by 2025 and beyond. These targets focus on economic growth, with the Federal High Skilled category (including CEC) projected to admit between 90,000 and 124,000 applicants per year.

The plan emphasizes drawing skilled workers to meet economic demands, supporting labor market needs in various sectors such as healthcare, STEM, and trades.

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The CEC program operates through the Express Entry system, which manages skilled worker applications for three programs, including the CEC. If you have previously lived in Canada and gained eligible work experience, you are a strong candidate for the CEC. Furthermore, if you possess a trades background, you may also qualify for the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) or the Federal Skilled Trades Program.