Moving Abroad

Canadian Experience Class: Who Qualifies and How Work Hours Count

2 min read

In this guide
  1. Quick answer
  2. What counts as skilled Canadian work?
  3. What does not count?
  4. How do the 1,560 hours add up?
  5. Common mistakes
  6. FAQ
    1. Do I need an ECA?
  7. Key takeaways
  8. Related guides
  9. Sources

The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) is an Express Entry program for skilled workers who already have Canadian work experience and want to become permanent residents. This guide covers the work experience rules in detail because that is where most applicants make mistakes. It is based on IRCC’s published requirements.

Quick answer

  • You need at least 1 year of skilled Canadian work, or 1,560 hours total at 30 hours per week, in the 3 years before you apply.
  • Work must be in TEER 0, 1, 2 or 3 occupations.
  • It must be paid work done in Canada while authorized to work as a temporary resident.
  • You must take approved English or French tests and meet the minimum score in all four abilities.
  • There is no education requirement.

What counts as skilled Canadian work?

Your work must match a National Occupational Classification (NOC) in TEER 0, 1, 2 or 3. You must have performed the actions in the lead statement of the NOC description and most of the main duties. If you worked remotely, you must have been physically in Canada and working for a Canadian employer.

Work experience gained in Quebec counts, but you must include proof that you do not plan to settle there.

What does not count?

  • Work while studying full-time, including co-op terms.
  • Self-employment, apart from the temporary exception for some physicians.
  • Volunteer work or unpaid internships.
  • Work you were not legally allowed to do in Canada.

How do the 1,560 hours add up?

Pattern Result
30 hours a week at one job for 12 months 1 year, 1,560 hours
15 hours a week for 24 months 1,560 hours
30 hours a week combined across several jobs for 12 months 1,560 hours

Common mistakes

  • Counting study-period work.
  • Picking a NOC by job title rather than duties. IRCC says choosing the NOC that most closely matches avoids delays.
  • Forgetting the 3-year window.

FAQ

Do I need an ECA?

The CEC has no education requirement. For other Express Entry programs, see our ECA guide.

Key takeaways

  • Count only paid, authorized, non-student Canadian work.
  • Keep records of hours.
  • Match your NOC carefully.

Last updated: October 2026. General information, not legal advice. Confirm details with IRCC.

Sources

  • Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (canada.ca): Canadian Experience Class

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