Canadian Experience Class
People with recent skilled work experience gained in Canada who want permanent residence.
The Canadian Experience Class is a Canadian work & skilled visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~CA$1,525 (CA$950 processing + CA$575 RPRF)) and processing time (~6 months after an invitation to apply), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Canadian Experience Class is for
People with recent skilled work experience gained in Canada who want permanent residence.
Grants permanent residence directly; a common route for graduates and temporary workers already in Canada.
Canadian Experience Class - eligibility criteria
- At least 1 year skilled Canadian work experience in the last 3 years
- Work gained with proper authorization (no self-employment)
- Meet language minimums (CLB 7 for TEER 0/1, CLB 5 for TEER 2/3)
- Be admissible (medical, security, background)
- Plan to live outside Quebec
Canadian Experience Class cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Canadian Experience Class (Canada) is ~CA$1,525 (CA$950 processing + CA$575 RPRF), with an indicative processing time of ~6 months after an invitation to apply. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at IRCC (canada.ca).
| Type | Points-based |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Online via Express Entry (apply from inside or outside Canada) |
| Length of stay | Permanent |
| Work rights | Full work rights as a permanent resident |
| Study rights | Full study rights as a permanent resident |
| Government fee | ~CA$1,525 (CA$950 processing + CA$575 RPRF) |
| Processing time | ~6 months after an invitation to apply |
| Route to PR | Grants permanent residence directly; a common route for graduates and temporary workers already in Canada. |
Pathway & next steps
Grants permanent residence directly; a common route for graduates and temporary workers already in Canada.
Many applicants also compare Express Entry · Express Entry (Economic Immigration System), FSW · Federal Skilled Worker Program, PGWP · Post-Graduation Work Permit. Run a free VisaChief check to see which Canadian route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Canadian Experience Class pitfalls we fix
Canadian Experience Class - frequently asked questions
How much does the Canadian Experience Class cost?
The Canadian Experience Class government fee is ~CA$1,525 (CA$950 processing + CA$575 RPRF). Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at IRCC (canada.ca) before applying.
How long does the Canadian Experience Class take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~6 months after an invitation to apply. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Canadian Experience Class lead to permanent residence?
Grants permanent residence directly; a common route for graduates and temporary workers already in Canada.
Can I work on the Canadian Experience Class?
Work rights: Full work rights as a permanent resident.
Who can apply for the Canadian Experience Class?
People with recent skilled work experience gained in Canada who want permanent residence.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Canada government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- IRCC (canada.ca) - official Canada immigration authority