GTR Worldwide
Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
The Canadian Experience Class, or CEC, is one of three main categories of the Express Entry system. It is a pathway to Canada PR for people already in Canada on a temporary basis. To qualify for CEC, an applicant must show 12 months of continuous, full-time skilled work experience in Canada, gained within the last three years.
Eligible Criteria
Canadian Experience Class (CEC) (Express Entry)
To be eligible, you must meet the minimum requirements for skilled Canadian work experience, language ability, and intention to live outside Quebec.
12 months Minimum:
At least one year (12 months) of continuous, full-time skilled work experience—or equivalent part-time—in the last three years in NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3.
Education:
No fixed education requirement, but a Canadian credential or valid ECA can help your CRS score.
Type of Work:
Only paid work is accepted. Self-employed work and unauthorized employment do not count.
Intention:
Applicants must intend to live and work outside Quebec. CEC does not apply to Quebec settlement plans.
Core Requirements
Core Language Proficiency Requirements
Language rules under CEC depend on the NOC TEER of the Canadian job. Applicants must prove English or French ability via IELTS, CELPIP, TEF, or TCF.
Occupation Level (NOC TEER)
TEER 0 or 1 (Equivalent to former NOC 0 or A occupations). TEER 2 or 3 (Equivalent to former NOC B occupations).
Minimum CLB/NCLC Requirement (All Abilities)
CLB/NCLC 7 across reading, writing, listening, and speaking. CLB/NCLC 5 across reading, writing, listening, and speaking.
ExpressEntry
Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
Popularity and Suitability
CEC is popular for a simple reason. Candidates are already in Canada, already working, and already contributing. Invitation rounds often reflect that preference.
Foreign Workers & International Graduates:
This pathway is commonly used by temporary foreign workers and international students who secure jobs after completing their studies. For many, CEC feels like the next logical step rather than a new application altogether.
Suitability:
CEC is designed for people with eligible Canadian work experience.
Note:
Applicants without any Canadian work history usually need to look at other immigration options.
Factors that Increase Your Chance to Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA)
Express Entry runs on CRS points, and competition can be unpredictable. Some profiles move quickly. Others wait. The factors below often make a noticeable difference.
A provincial nomination from a Canadian province or territory adds 600 CRS points. Many CEC candidates receive nominations through aligned PNP streams. In most situations, this leads to an ITA.
Higher language scores, especially CLB 9 or above, combined with Canadian work experience, improve skill transferability points. This combination tends to push profiles higher in the pool.
Applicants with stronger French language ability (NCLC 7 or higher) receive additional CRS points. They may also qualify for French-language category draws, which sometimes have lower cut-offs. Not everyone realizes this early.
CEC candidates working in sectors like STEM or Healthcare may be considered under category-based draws. These draws are more targeted and do not always follow general CRS trends.
Related Canadian Immigration Pathways
Express Entry is only one part of Canada’s immigration system. Different applicants fit into different pathways. Choosing the right one matters.
Immigrate to Canada
Canada offers stability, opportunity, and long-term prospects. We help applicants explore immigration options that align with their goals.
Learn More →Work in Canada
From temporary work permits to long-term roles, Canada provides opportunities across many industries.
Learn More →Business in Canada
Business immigration allows entrepreneurs and investors to operate in Canada while benefiting from a strong economy and skilled workforce.
Learn More →Study in Canada
Studying in Canada offers academic quality and, for many, a pathway toward future settlement.
Learn More →Sponsor family to Canada
Family sponsorship programs help bring close relatives together in Canada under approved immigration categories.
Learn More →