Qualifying work
At least 12 months of eligible, paid Canadian work within the preceding three years: 1,560 hours, counting no more than 30 per week. The occupation must be in NOC TEER 0, 1, 2 or 3 and the duties must match.
The main requirements
From Canadian experience to a permanent residence application.
CEC is an Express Entry pathway for skilled workers with qualifying Canadian experience. A job offer is not required. It is open to eligible applicants of any nationality; it has no country-by-country youth quota. Meeting the minimum conditions allows participation in Express Entry, but an invitation is still required.
Language results
Approved English or French tests are required in all four abilities. The minimum is CLB/NCLC 7 for TEER 0 or 1, and CLB/NCLC 5 for TEER 2 or 3. Results must remain valid for the application.
Language tests and scores →Other conditions
Applicants must be admissible and intend to live outside Quebec. There is no minimum education requirement. CEC applicants do not need to demonstrate Express Entry settlement funds.
Review the work history
Check which experience counts.
Work performed in Canada
You must have held the required temporary resident status and authorization to work. Remote work counts only where you were physically in Canada and working for a Canadian employer. Part-time work and multiple jobs can be combined within the weekly limit.
Working extra hours does not reduce the required 12-month period. Experience acquired in Quebec can count, although the intended destination must be outside Quebec.
Common exclusions
Work during full-time studies, including co-op terms, generally does not count. Neither do unpaid work, unauthorized work or most self-employment. A specific public policy provides an exception for some physicians providing publicly funded medical services.
Plan the Express Entry application
Eligibility and selection are different.
CEC has no separate youth age limit. However, age and other factors affect your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. Qualifying for CEC does not guarantee an invitation or permanent residence.
Calculate your CRS score →Explore Express Entry invitation history →Consider provincial nomination →
Reviewed October 1, 2026 against IRCC’s CEC eligibility, Express Entry language-test and proof-of-funds guidance. This overview does not replace an assessment of your complete work history and circumstances.
Immigration legal services
Does your Canadian work experience qualify?
We can assess the occupation, work history, language results and Express Entry strategy.
Request a CEC Assessment