Secure Your Future in Canada with Express Entry (CEC) – Let’s Get Started
Professional guidance for Canadian Experience Class (CEC) candidates seeking employment and Permanent Residency.
Thank you for reaching out to us and sharing your interest in immigrating to Canada through the Express Entry – Canadian Experience Class (CEC). This program is one of the fastest and most reliable pathways to Permanent Residency, designed for skilled professionals who seek stable employment and long-term settlement opportunities in Canada.
Eligibility Requirements (CEC)
- Canadian skilled work experience: At least 1 year (1,560 hours) in the last 3 years in NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3, while authorized to work in Canada; paid work only; duties must match your NOC. Self-employment and full-time student work don’t count.
- Language: Approved test (IELTS General / CELPIP General / PTE Core, etc.). Minimum CLB 7 for TEER 0/1 roles; CLB 5 for TEER 2/3.
- Education: No minimum for eligibility. If you want CRS points for foreign education, add an ECA (Educational Credential Assessment).
- Where you can live: Plan to live outside Quebec.
- Proof of funds: Not required for CEC (keep funds up to date in the profile in case you’re invited under another program).
- Admissibility: You must be admissible to Canada.
Summary of the Express Entry (CEC) Pathway
- Built for candidates with skilled work experience and competitive language/education credentials.
- Enables you to apply for Permanent Residency and access employment opportunities across Canada.
- Streamlined selection using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) to meet labour market needs.
Steps in the Process
- Eligibility Assessment – We evaluate your work experience, education, and language results to confirm CEC fit.
- Express Entry Profile Creation – Enter the IRCC pool under the CRS and position your profile strategically.
- Invitation to Apply (ITA) – If your CRS score is competitive, IRCC issues an invitation to submit a PR application.
- PR Application Submission – File a complete, accurate, and well-supported application with all proofs.
- Approval & Settlement – Obtain PR, then work and live in Canada with full resident benefits.
Steps We Manage Start-to-Finish
- Eligibility & Strategy: Verify CEC criteria, align NOC/TEER, and plan CRS optimization.
- Documents & Exams: Language testing plan; ECA guidance (if claiming foreign education points).
- Express Entry Profile: Build and quality-check your profile; prepare proof packages in advance.
- PNP & Job Tactics (optional): If helpful, leverage provincial options and coordinate employer documentation.
- Post-ITA PR Filing: Collect police certificates/medicals, pay fees, and submit a complete, audit-checked e-APR.
- Decision & Settlement: Track updates, address IRCC requests, and prepare for landing/employment.
Key Takeaways
- CEC can be one of the fastest PR options, but timelines vary—starting early helps you avoid bottlenecks.
- Demand for skilled workers remains high—a strong profile improves selection chances.
- Accuracy is critical—missing, inconsistent, or incorrect details can lead to delays or refusals.
- Act sooner than later—CRS cut-offs and program priorities can change; positioning now protects your opportunity.
Associated Costs (Typical)
| Item | Amount / Notes |
|---|---|
| IRCC PR fee (principal) | CAD 1,525 total = processing $950 + Right of PR $575. Spouse: $1,525; dependent child: $260. |
| Biometrics | CAD 85 per person (max $170 per family applying together). |
| Language test | IELTS General: ~$318–$355 + tax (varies by centre). CELPIP-General: $290 + tax (Canada). |
| ECA (if claiming foreign education points) | Varies by designated org (e.g., WES, ICES). Provider fees and delivery options apply. |
| Immigration medical exam | Paid directly to panel physician; cost varies by clinic/city; additional tests may add cost. |
Figures are estimates and subject to change. Always confirm current fees with IRCC and providers.
Lawseph RCIC Service Fees
| Package | What’s Included | Fee (CAD) |
|---|---|---|
| CEC / Express Entry — Full Service | Strategy & CRS optimization, document roadmap, profile build, PNP guidance, post-ITA PR application, audit checks, file monitoring & updates. | $2,500 (5 × $500 monthly; govt/third-party fees not included). |
| Optional: Settlement & Employment Start Pack | Landing checklist, basics on provincial job search resources, and employer onboarding support. | Included advisory during PR process. |
Processing Times (What to Expect)
- Express Entry PR: IRCC indicates it processes most complete Express Entry applications in ~6 months or less from submitting the full PR file (post-ITA). Actual times vary by case volume and completeness.
- Biometrics & medicals: Build in scheduling time; paying the biometrics fee upfront can help avoid delays.
Further Reading (Official & Helpful)
- IRCC — Canadian Experience Class (eligibility)
- IRCC — Express Entry overview
- IRCC — Language tests & minimum levels
- IRCC — Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)
- IRCC — Fees (PR & biometrics)
- IRCC — Check processing times
- IRCC — Proof of funds (who needs it)
FAQ
Do I need a job offer for CEC?
No. A job offer isn’t required for eligibility. It can help with CRS or PNP options, but CEC eligibility is based on qualifying Canadian work experience, language, and other criteria.
Do I need proof of funds?
Not for CEC. Keep funds updated in your profile, as some candidates are invited under other programs where proof of funds may apply; if you don’t need it, upload a short letter explaining why.
Does self-employment count?
No. Self-employment and work done while a full-time student don’t count towards the CEC minimum requirements.
Can I apply if I live in Quebec?
CEC is for candidates planning to live outside Quebec. Quebec manages a separate skilled worker program.
Will IRCC process my PR in exactly 6 months?
IRCC targets ~6 months for most complete Express Entry PR files after submission, but times vary with volume and case complexity.
Why Choose Lawseph & Associates Inc.?
- 25+ years of RCIC expertise guiding applicants through Express Entry and CEC with confidence.
- Risk reduction through meticulous, end-to-end application management to prevent errors that trigger refusals.
- Personalized strategy to optimize CRS, strengthen documentation, and present the strongest case.
- Trusted, Toronto-based representation—licensed RCICs delivering responsive, professional support.
Immigrating to Canada is a life-changing opportunity—don’t leave your future to chance. With Lawseph & Associates Inc., your file will be professionally prepared, fully compliant, and positioned for success. Beginning now puts you ahead of shifting cut-offs and processing volumes.
Apply for Your CEC with Expert Guidance
Best regards,
Lawseph & Associates Inc.
Licensed RCIC Immigration Consultants
432-100 Richmond St. W., Toronto, ON, M5H-3K6
📞 416-962-3334 | 🌐 lawsephandassociates.com
