Canadian Experience Class (CEC) Requirements 2026: Who Qualifies
If you’re already working in Canada, the Canadian Experience Class is probably your best route to permanent residence. The core rule is simple: at least 1 year (1,560 hours) of skilled Canadian work in the last 3 years, plus a minimum language score. There’s no education requirement and you don’t need to show settlement funds.
The requirements in one table
| Requirement | What you need |
|---|---|
| Canadian work experience | At least 1,560 hours of skilled work in Canada in the 3 years before you apply |
| Type of work | Paid work in NOC TEER 0, 1, 2 or 3, with valid work authorization |
| Language | CLB 7 in all four skills for TEER 0 or 1 jobs, CLB 5 for TEER 2 or 3 jobs |
| Education | Not required, although it adds CRS points |
| Proof of funds | Not required |
| Where you’ll live | Anywhere in Canada except Quebec |
How the 1,560 hours add up
IRCC only counts up to 30 hours a week. So if you work 40 or 45 hours, you don’t get there any faster. Thirty hours a week for 12 months makes 1,560 hours. Part-time works too: 15 hours a week for 24 months gets you to the same number.
You can combine hours from more than one job, as long as every job is TEER 0 to 3. The work doesn’t have to be continuous, but all of it has to fall inside the last 3 years.
Work that doesn’t count
- Anything you did while you were a full-time student, including co-op terms and campus jobs.
- Self-employment. There’s a narrow exception for some physicians, but it doesn’t apply to most people.
- Volunteer work and unpaid internships.
- Work without valid authorization, for example after your permit expired without maintained status.
- Remote work for a company outside Canada. It only counts if you were in Canada working for a Canadian employer.
The language level depends on your job
Look at the TEER of the job you’re using to qualify. TEER 0 and 1 jobs need CLB 7. TEER 2 and 3 jobs need CLB 5. You need that level in reading, writing, listening and speaking. If you aren’t sure of your TEER, see how to find your NOC code and TEER.
Keep in mind that the minimum only makes you eligible. CEC rounds in 2026 have needed much higher CRS scores than the minimum language level gives you, so a strong test result still matters a lot.
What CEC draws look like in 2026
IRCC has held CEC rounds regularly all year, with cut-offs between 507 and 523. The most recent, on October 15, 2026, invited 2,500 people with a cut-off of 519.
CEC candidates can also be picked in category rounds if they have 12 months of experience in an eligible occupation, and in French-language rounds. From November 3, 2026, Canadian work in a high-wage occupation, or a qualifying job offer, can add up to 150 points under the new labour market integration factor.
Compare your score with the latest CEC cut-off.
How to apply
- Take an approved language test.
- Confirm your NOC code and count your hours for each Canadian job.
- Create your Express Entry profile.
- If you’re invited, send your application within 60 days with reference letters, T4s and pay records.
Quick answers
Can I apply while I’m on a PGWP?
Yes. Most CEC applicants are on a post-graduation or other work permit. We cover that route in from PGWP to PR.
Does work in Quebec count?
It does, but you have to plan to live outside Quebec. Quebec runs its own immigration programs.
Do I need an ECA?
No, since education isn’t required. Get one only if you want points for education from outside Canada.
