Canadian Experience Class
CEC Program
The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) is for skilled workers who have Canadian work experience and want to become permanent residents. One of the fastest pathways for temporary foreign workers and international graduates.
Processing
~5 months
Fee (adult)
$1,475 CAD
Min Language
CLB 7 (TEER 0/1)
Min Experience
1 year in Canada
Eligibility Requirements
Skilled Work Experience
At least 12 months of full-time or equivalent part-time skilled work experience in Canada in NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 within the last 3 years.
Language Ability
TEER 0 or 1: minimum CLB 7. TEER 2 or 3: minimum CLB 5. Valid test results (IELTS, CELPIP, or TEF Canada).
Status in Canada
You must have had legal temporary resident status during your Canadian work experience.
Education
No minimum education requirement for CEC. Education is used for CRS scoring. Get ECA for foreign credentials.
CEC vs FSW Comparison
| Factor | CEC | FSW |
|---|---|---|
| Work Experience Location | In Canada only | Outside Canada (or Canada) |
| Min Language (TEER 0/1) | CLB 7 | CLB 7 |
| Min Education | None required | High school + ECA |
| Settlement Funds | Not required | Required |
| Six Selection Factors | No | Yes (67/100 pass) |
| Processing Time | ~5 months | ~6 months |