What is a Canadian Experience Class Program?

Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) launched the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) in 2008. It offers temporary foreign-skilled workers in Canada a pathway to permanent residency. Governments across Canada, communities, employers, and immigration candidates themselves consider the Canadian Experience Class to be one of the most successful immigration routes.

Benefits of the CEC Program

More international students and temporary foreign skilled workers are choosing to establish themselves in Canada. Thanks to the CEC program. Here are some benefits you can enjoy in Canada as an international student and skilled professional through the CEC program.

1. You have the privilege of enjoying the benefits of the Canadian government just as other permanent residents and citizens of Canada do, including healthcare and other services.
2. You can sponsor your spouse and other family members to work in Canada legally.
3. As an international student, you can choose to study at the best Canadian universities.
4. You can apply for Canadian citizenship after residing in Canada for 3 years and obtaining a Canadian passport.
5. You can reside and work anywhere in Canada.

Requirements for the Canadian Experience Class Program

Before applying for the Canadian Experience Class program, you must meet certain eligibility criteria. Some of them are mentioned for you.

1. You must possess at least a year of professional, skilled, or technical employment experience within 36 months of the application date.
2. If you intend to live and work outside of Quebec, you can apply to the Quebec Experience Class if you have work experience there and plan to stay there.
3. You must have a Canadian Language Benchmark of 5 (initial intermediate) for NOC B jobs or CLB 7 (adequate intermediate proficiency) for jobs considered to be NOC skill level 0 to A jobs.

You can stay in Canada for the duration of the application process. If you apply for the Canadian Experience Class within three years of quitting your Canadian job and do not reside there, you are still eligible to enroll.

Eligibility for Canadian Experience Class as an international student

The following is the most common path for an international student using the CEC to become a permanent resident of Canada:

1. Complete your course of study at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada.
2. Apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit through the IRCC portal online.
3. Obtain at least 1,560 hours of work experience in Canada under NOC TEER categories 0, 1, 2, or 3 using your PGWP.
4. Take up a language test, English or French, with a minimum CLB of 7 for NOC category 0 with one year of work experience and a minimum CLB of 5 for NOC category 2 with at least 3 years of work experience.
5. Enter the Express Entry pool. The IRCC will attempt to process your application for permanent residence within 6 months if you receive an invitation to apply.

Eligibility for Canadian Experience Class as a temporary foreign worker

The following is the most common path for a temporary foreign worker using the CEC to become a permanent resident of Canada:

1. Obtain a Canadian work permit.
2. Obtain at least 1,560 hours of work experience in Canada under NOC TEER categories 0, 1, 2, or 3.
3. Take up a language test, English or French, with a minimum CLB of 7 for NOC category 0 with one year of work experience and a minimum CLB of 5 for NOC category 2 with at least 3 years of work experience.
4. Enter the Express Entry pool while the IRCC will attempt to process your application for permanent residence within 6 months if you receive an invitation to apply.

How do I apply for Canadian Experience Class?

Here’s the process of transitioning from a temporary foreign worker in Canada to a Canadian permanent resident.

1. Get a Canadian work permit

If you’re among those who are eligible under the International Experience Class (IEC) program or a partner of an international student or worker in Canada, then an open work permit could be an option for you.

2. Complete at least a year of employment in Canada

To be eligible for the Canadian Experience Class program, you must have at least one full year of employment in Canada.

3. Make sure you fulfill the requirements

Here’s a little “tip tip”: Take up a legit language test, such as the IELTS or CELPIP. You will receive extra credit for proficiency in your second language if you demonstrate some proficiency in both French and English.

4. Create an Express Entry profile

Complete an Express Entry profile on the IRCC website. You must provide personal information along with supporting documents as proof.

5. Enhance your CRS profile and ranking

If you have obtained an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) and completed your studies outside of Canada then you are eligible to receive these points. To increase the chance that you will be invited to apply for permanent residence, you should obtain an ECA or upload documentation of your Canadian educational credentials.

6. Obtain an invitation to apply

You have 60 days to send in a final application. When the IRCC draws from the Express Entry pool, ITAs are distributed.

7. Complete a medical examination, provide background checks for security, and submit an online application

Every applicant for the Canadian Experience Class is examined for possible criminal and medical limitations. You must include proof supporting your application stating the completion of a medical examination by a panel physician recognized by the IRCC.

8. Your online application will be reviewed

The Immigration Officer of Canada will review your online application and inform you if there’s anything else to add to it.

9. Confirm your status as a permanent resident and complete the landing

80 percent of Canadian Experience Class applications are completed in less than six months. A confirmation of permanent residence (COPR) will be given to you if your application is approved.

10. Receive your PR card

After obtaining your status confirmation, you can proceed with applying for your PR card. You can use this card as proof of your Canadian status if you travel outside of the country.

Wrap-Up

One of the three programs guided by Canada’s Express Entry system is the CEC and If you’re looking for more insights, our team of dedicated immigration experts is here to give you all the information you need about the Canadian Experience Class program. Looking for ways to enrol? Connect with CanApprove, we’d love to hear from you!

FAQs

1. What is the minimum score for CEC?

The Canadian Experience Class program was an exceptional draw that invited candidates with the lowest score of 75 points.

2. How long does it take to process the Canadian Experience Class?

The processing time for the Canadian Experience Class usually takes 6 months.

3. Do I need LMIA for a Canadian Experience Class?

If you are invited to the Canadian Experience Class, you don’t need an LMIA to meet the program requirements.

Being an International Students in Canada, you will want to work part-time in canada and balance your academics hand-in-hand. But anyhow most people will find it difficult to cope with.

This blog will help you to know the ins and outs of working part-time in Canada while you spend most of your time studying and still make the most out of your time there.

When applying for full-time jobs after finishing your studies; internships and part-time jobs in Canada like teaching assistant, library assistant, and research assistant are promising methods to improve the appearance of your resume.

When you’re ready to enter the workforce, having relationships with people outside of your education will increase your chances of getting recommendations for which working part-time is highly suggested with which you can fill your pockets too!

Part-time Job Culture

Most of our conventional parents would be offended if we worked part-time. But, for most of the people growing up in developed nations like the US, Canada, and Australia, having part-time work to fund their schooling has been considered a rite of passage. It’s now time for you to participate in this culture and start working part-time jobs in Canada so that you can have a better budget and a better time while you’re a student.

Everything is pricey, as you’ll quickly discover after landing in Canada. However, as soon as you start earning money in dollars, the conversion concern dramatically lessens. The minimum pay for part-time employment in Canada is 15 CAD, but it varies from province to province. This means that if you perform a 20-hour workweek, you can expect to make about 300 CAD each week, which will significantly improve your quality of living while a student. It will assist you in learning how to manage your time effectively, balance multiple facets of student life, and become self-sufficient in Canada. You’ll get a taste of what it’s like to work in a brand-new setting with diverse influences.

In addition to the money, you will earn from a part-time job in Canada, the ecosystem is excellent for students because there are many options that can fit into your schedule that are available constantly. You can develop discipline and the necessary skill sets to grow in your professional life by learning to balance work and study.

Let’s explore the world of internships and part-time employment for international students in Canada.

Requirements to work part-time in Canada

1. A valid Study Permit

2. Social Insurance Number (SIN)

3. Must be a student of a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) enrolled in a full-time program that lasts at least 6 months to a degree or a diploma.

4. You can work when your program begins and stop when it ends.

Here are some key points to consider

Work Regulations: International students in Canada can work up to 20 hours per week during the academic session and full-time (up to 40 hours per week) during scheduled breaks, such as winter and summer vacations, without needing a separate work permit.

On-Campus Jobs: Many universities and colleges in Canada offer on-campus employment opportunities for students. These jobs are convenient as they are located on or near campus, making it easier to balance work and classes.

Off-Campus Jobs: You can also work off-campus if you have a valid study permit and meet certain eligibility criteria. The work must be related to your program of study, and you can find job listings on various websites and job boards.

Co-op and Internship Programs: Some institutions offer co-op and internship programs as part of your curriculum. These programs provide work experience directly related to your field of study and often come with academic credits.

Work-Study Programs: Some universities have work-study programs. It provides financial aid to students in need, allowing them to work part-time on campus. Students can also gain experience related to their studies.

Time Management: Balancing work and study requires effective time management. Create a schedule that allows you to allocate enough time for classes, assignments, and work commitments.

Financial Planning: Keep track of your expenses and budget carefully. This is to make sure you cover your tuition fees and living costs. Part-time work can help, but it’s important to manage your finances wisely.

Language Skills: Improving your English or French language skills can make you more competitive in the job market. Consider language courses or language exchange programs.

Networking: Building a professional network can be beneficial for your career. Attend career fairs, join student clubs or associations, and connect with professors and fellow students.

Work-Life Balance: Don’t forget to take care of your physical and mental well-being. Balancing work and study can be demanding, so make sure to schedule downtime and relaxation.

Part-time jobs can provide financial support and valuable experience. However, your focus as an international student should be on your studies. It’s essential to maintain good academic standing to make the most of your educational experience in Canada.

And, if you are aspiring to set up your overseas education in Canada, connect with CanApprove. Our education counsellors are here to help you in every possible aspect of your abroad education process.

Thanks for reading 😊

Tag: WorkExperience

Canadian Experience Class: Your Path to Permanent Residency