CEC is one of Canada’s newest permanent residency programs. Introduced in 2008, it provides a simplified, streamlined path to permanent residency for foreign workers and international graduates of Canadian institutions. In January 2013, the program reduced its Canadian work experience requirement from 24 to 12 months, further expediting the application process. This reduced work requirement is of particular benefit to foreign graduates in Canada on a post-graduate work permit.

“The Canadian Experience Class makes Canada more competitive in attracting and retaining the best and brightest individuals with the skills we need,” said Citizenship and Immigration Minister Jason Kenney. “These are people who have already demonstrated their ability to integrate intot he Canadian labour market and society. The CEC allows these skilled and educated individuals to bring their skills and talents, contribute to our economy and help renew our workforce so that Canada remains competitive on the world stage.”