The Canadian Experience Class (“CEC”) was created in autumn of 2008. This category is for students who have recently graduated in Canada and for temporary workers in Canada. This category was created in the belief that these applicants have the qualities necessary to become successfully established in Canada.

Unlike other categories under the Federal Skilled Worker program, the CEC category does not require an applicant to meet or pass the benchmark of 67 points. However, the applicant must still meet certain set criteria in order to be selected.

Who can apply? The CEC category is open to those students whom have graduated from a Canadian institution in Canada and whom have at least one year full time work experience in Canada (Post-Graduation Stream). It is also open to foreign workers whom have at least two years full time work experience in Canada (Temporary Foreign Worker Stream). One must apply while working in Canada or within one year of leaving your employment in Canada.

Who cannot apply? The CEC category is closed to those students and foreign workers whom intent to reside in Quebec. Those, whom have acquired their experience illegally, therefore without the proper authorizations, cannot apply.  The category is also closed to those whom are in Canada under refugee status.

What are the other requirements? Under the Temporary Foreign Worker stream, an applicant’s status, English and/or French language proficiency, work experience will be examined. Under the Post-Graduation Stream, an applicant’s status, English and/or French language proficiency, work experience as well as education credentials will be examined. As under the Federal Skilled Worker program, the work experience obtained must still be at a higher skill level (NOC 0, A or B level).