Canada•North AmericaExpress Entry - Canadian Experience Class
At a Glance
Processing Time
~180 days
Application Fee
1,525 CAD
Stay Duration
Indefinite
Renewable
Yes
Job Offer
Not Required
Dependents
Allowed
PR Pathway
Available
This visa can lead to permanent residency — the right to live and work here indefinitely without renewing your visa.Remote Work
Not Required
Overview
Express Entry program for skilled workers with Canadian work experience. Prioritizes in-Canada work experience to reduce labour shortages.
The Canadian Experience Class targets skilled workers with Canadian work experience, prioritizing applicants who are already contributing to Canada's economy. This program is particularly attractive for those who have studied or worked in Canada on temporary permits.
Annual Visa Allocation
110,770 visas per year
The quota is part of the 'Federal High Skilled' target in the 2024-2026 Immigration Levels Plan, which includes CEC, FSWP, and FSTP. Targets are subject to annual adjustment by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
No lottery system
Check Your Eligibility
Take our quick assessment to see how well you match this visa and get personalized tips
Requirements
Personal
Passport Validity
6 months
Criminal Record Policy
case_by_case
Education
None or higher
Professional
Experience
1+ years
Required Skills
Language
English
Intermediate
French
Intermediate
Documentation
Applicant Documents
Language test results
IELTS, CELPIP, or TOEFL for English minimum CLB 7
Canadian employment letters
Documentation of 1+ years Canadian work experience
Passport
Valid identification document
Work permits/permits
Copies of work permits or study permits used in Canada
Police certificate
Criminal record check
Medical exam
From approved IRCC physician
Education credentials
Degree certificates if claiming education points
OptionalTrack your documents or upload them for AI-powered review
Advantages
- Canadian work experience valued highly
- Already familiar with Canadian workplace culture
- Can transition from student or work permit status
- Strong selection in 2025 draws
- No foreign education assessment needed if degree from Canadian institution
Considerations
- Requires Canadian work history
- Language requirement same as Federal Skilled Worker (CLB 7)
- Still competitive with high CRS scores
- Medical and police checks required
- Must meet skilled occupation criteria
- Degree may need evaluation if earned outside Canada
Application Process
Gain Canadian work experience
Work in Canada for at least 1 year in past 3 years on work permit or study permit
Language test
Take approved language test (IELTS, CELPIP, or TOEFL for English)
Create Express Entry profile
Submit profile highlighting Canadian work experience
Receive Comprehensive Ranking Score
IRCC calculates CRS favoring Canadian work experience
Await invitation
Wait for invitation in category-based draws focusing on CEC candidates
Receive Invitation to Apply (ITA)
If selected, receive ITA with 60 days to submit complete application
Submit complete application
Provide all documentation including employment letters and police/medical certificates
Receive Confirmation of Permanent Residence
Approval of permanent residency application
Application Forms
Express Entry Profile - Canadian Experience Class
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Check your eligibility first to see how well you match this visa
