CEC Primary Benefits
- CEC has been known to have the fastest processing time compared to other Express Entry programs.
- CEC intakes will remain steady and available for the foreseeable future.
- You will not be required to provide proof of settlement funds.
- You can enter the Express Entry pool anytime you want as long as you meet the minimum requirements.
- Express Entry implements electronic systems from profiles to final PR submissions, so you can enjoy paper-free flexibility.
CEC Basic Requirements
To qualify for CEC, you must meet the following minimum requirements:
- Skilled work experience: You must have at least 1 year full-time paid work experience or an equivalent amount of part-time work experience (min 1,560 hours). Your Canadian skilled work experience must be paid and obtained within the last 3 years (36 months) of the date of submission of eAPR (see below). Please note that work experience obtained while studying full-time do not count towards the CEC work experience.
- Language: you must meet the minimum level of language requirements for English and/or French for FST as outlined below:
- English: Speaking and listening - CLB 5
- English: Reading and writing - CLB 4
- French: Speaking and listening - NCLC 5
- French: Reading and writing - NCLC 4
- Job offer: Not required
- Intention to live outside the province of Quebec: You must have the intention to live outside Quebec since the province of Quebec has its own immigration system
CEC Application Process
As long as you meet the minimum requirements, we can create and launch your Express Entry profile to enter the pool. Once an ITA (Invitation to Apply) is received, we will have 60 days to prepare for the permanent residence application.
We can submit the application online as soon as the eAPR (Electronic Application for Permanent Residence) is completed with all supporting documents.
CEC Processing Times
We will process your case as soon as we receive all supporting documents. The government processing time for Express Entry applications is generally 6 months.
Due to processing delays and staff shortages caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, the 6-month processing time cannot be guaranteed. However, Express Entry programs still enjoy relatively shorter processing durations as opposed to other types of applications.
CEC Processing Fees
For up-to-date pricing information, please visit the Government of Canada Website.