Already Working in Canada on Deputation or Intra-Company Transfer?
If you are a foreign worker who was sent on deputation/ Onsite to Canada from your home branch and if you gain a one-year full-time, non-seasonal work experience in Canada then you will be eligible to apply for Permanent Residence of Canada Under Canadian Experience Class through Express Entry.
Canadian Express Class
Canadian Experience Class Visa in Hyderabad
Canada is a top destination for professionals seeking better opportunities and a higher quality of life. Among the various pathways to Canadian permanent residency, the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) Visa is a popular choice for individuals with Canadian work experience. For residents of Hyderabad aiming to navigate this process, Mercury Visas is here to provide a detailed, step-by-step guide to make your journey smoother.
Canadian Experience Class Visa for Indians
The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) Visa is a category under Canada’s Express Entry immigration system. It is designed for skilled workers who have gained professional work experience in Canada and wish to become permanent residents. The CEC visa is particularly beneficial for those who have already adapted to Canadian society and have proven their ability to contribute to the economy.
To be eligible for the CEC visa, applicants must meet specific criteria. Firstly, they must have at least one year of skilled work experience in Canada within the last three years. This experience should be in a full-time position or an equivalent amount of part-time work. Additionally, applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English or French through recognized language tests such as IELTS or CELPIP for English, or TEF for French. While there is no minimum education requirement for the CEC visa, possessing higher education credentials can enhance an applicant’s Express Entry profile and improve their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score.
Canadian Experience Class Visa Fees
Applying for the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) Visa involves several fees that applicants must be aware of to ensure a smooth and successful process. Understanding these costs is crucial for budgeting and planning your application. Here is a breakdown of the various fees associated with the CEC visa.
Express Entry Profile Creation
Creating an Express Entry profile is the first step in the application process and does not incur any fees. However, applicants must bear the costs of language proficiency tests and Educational Credential Assessments (ECA) if required.
Language Proficiency Test Fees
Applicants must prove their language proficiency in English or French. The fees for these tests are as follows:
IELTS (International English Language Testing System): approximately INR 14,700.
CELPIP (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program): Around CAD 280 (approximately INR 17,000).
TEF (Test d’évaluation de français): About EUR 250 (approximately INR 21,500).
Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) Fees
If your education was completed outside Canada, you may need an ECA to verify that your foreign degree, diploma, or certificate is valid and equivalent to a Canadian one. The fee for an ECA varies by the organization but generally ranges from CAD 300 to CAD 500 (approximately INR 18,500 to INR 31,000).
Application Processing Fees
Once you receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) and submit your application for permanent residence, the following fees apply:
Primary Applicant: CAD 950 (approximately INR 58,000).
Spouse or Common-Law Partner: CAD 950 (approximately INR 58,000).
Dependent Child: CAD 260 per child (approximately INR 16,000).
Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF)
In addition to the application processing fees, applicants must pay the Right of Permanent Residence Fee, which is:
Primary Applicant and Spouse/Common-Law Partner: CAD 575 each (approximately INR 35,000).
Medical Examination Fees
All applicants must undergo a medical examination by a panel physician approved by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). The cost of this examination varies by location and physician, but typically ranges from INR 5,000 to INR 10,000 per person.
Police Clearance Certificate Fees
Applicants must also provide police clearance certificates from every country they have lived in for six months or more since the age of 18. The cost of obtaining these certificates can vary widely depending on the country and processing time, generally ranging from INR 500 (India PCC) to INR 10,000 (other countries).
Biometrics Fees
As part of the application process, applicants are required to provide biometrics (fingerprints and a photo). The fees for biometrics are:
Individual Applicant: CAD 85 (approximately INR 5,100).
Family (2 or more applicants): CAD 170 (approximately INR 10,200).
Additional Costs
Applicants should also consider additional costs that may arise, such as travel expenses for attending language tests or medical exams, postage or courier fees for sending documents, and professional fees if using an immigration consultant or lawyer.
Canadian Experience Class Visa Eligibility
The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) Visa is an immigration pathway designed for skilled workers who have gained professional experience in Canada and wish to become permanent residents. To ensure a successful application, it is crucial to understand the eligibility criteria for the CEC Visa. Here’s a comprehensive guide on the key eligibility requirements for the Canadian Experience Class Visa.
Work Experience
The cornerstone of the CEC Visa eligibility is Canadian work experience. Applicants must have at least one year of full-time skilled work experience, or an equivalent amount of part-time work experience, within the last three years before applying. This work experience must be in a job categorized under the National Occupational Classification (NOC) skill levels 0, A, or B. These categories include managerial jobs, professional occupations, technical jobs, and skilled trades.
Language Proficiency
Proficiency in one of Canada’s official languages, English or French, is a critical requirement. Applicants must take a recognized language test and achieve a minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) score. For jobs under NOC 0 and A, a CLB level of 7 is required, while for NOC B jobs, a CLB level of 5 is sufficient. Accepted language tests include the IELTS and CELPIP for English, and the TEF for French.
Education
There is no minimum education requirement for the CEC Visa. However, having higher education credentials can significantly improve an applicant’s Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score in the Express Entry pool, thereby increasing the chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence.
Legal Status and Work Authorization
Applicants must have gained their Canadian work experience legally, meaning they must have held valid temporary resident status and authorization to work in Canada. Unauthorized work or work experience gained without proper permits will not count towards CEC eligibility.
Residency Status
While there is no specific requirement to be in Canada at the time of applying, applicants must demonstrate their intent to live outside the province of Quebec. Quebec has its own immigration program, and the CEC Visa is intended for those who plan to reside in other provinces or territories of Canada.
Admissibility
Applicants must be admissible to Canada. This means they must not have any criminal records or medical issues that would make them inadmissible. Police clearance certificates and a medical examination are required to prove admissibility.
Proof of Funds
Unlike other immigration pathways, the CEC does not require applicants to show proof of funds. This is because the program targets individuals who are already established in Canada with a job and Canadian work experience.
Express Entry Profile
To apply for the CEC Visa, candidates must first create an Express Entry profile. This profile will include information about their work experience, education, language proficiency, and other relevant factors. Based on this information, candidates are assigned a CRS score, which determines their rank in the Express Entry pool. Regular draws are conducted from this pool, and candidates with the highest scores are issued ITAs for permanent residency.
How Do Mercury Visas Help You?
Personalized Consultation
Mercury Visas starts by providing a personalized consultation to understand your unique circumstances, career goals, and eligibility for the CEC Visa. Our experienced consultants assess your work experience, education, and language proficiency to ensure you meet the criteria. This initial assessment helps identify any potential issues and offers tailored advice to strengthen your application.
Document Preparation and Review
One of the most challenging aspects of the CEC Visa application is gathering and preparing the necessary documents. Mercury Visas assist you in compiling all required documentation, such as proof of Canadian work experience, language test results, educational credentials, and identification documents. Our team meticulously reviews each document to ensure accuracy and completeness, minimizing the risk of application delays or rejections.
Language Test and Educational Credential Assistance
Mercury Visas guide you through the process of taking recognized language tests (IELTS, CELPIP, or TEF) and obtaining Educational Credential Assessments (ECAs) if needed. We provide resources and advice to help you achieve the required language proficiency scores and ensure your foreign education credentials are correctly assessed for Canadian equivalency.
Express Entry Profile Creation
Creating a compelling Express Entry profile is crucial for securing an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency. Mercury Visas helps you create and optimize your Express Entry profile, ensuring that all relevant information is accurately entered and enhancing your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. Our experts provide strategies to improve your CRS score, such as additional language tests or further education.
Application Submission
Once you receive an ITA, the clock starts ticking. You have 60 days to submit a complete application for permanent residence. Mercury Visas assist you in completing all forms and ensure that every detail is accurate and all required documents are included. Our team helps you navigate the online submission process, providing support at every step to avoid common pitfalls.
Ongoing Support and Follow-Up
The visa application process doesn’t end with submission. Mercury Visas offers ongoing support and follow-up services to keep you informed about the status of your application. We liaise with immigration authorities on your behalf, addressing any queries or additional requirements that may arise during the processing period.
How To Apply For A Canadian Experience Class Visa?
Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility
Before applying, ensure you meet the basic eligibility criteria for the CEC Visa:
Work Experience: At least one year of skilled work experience in Canada within the last three years.
Language Proficiency: Proficiency in English or French, demonstrated through approved language tests (IELTS, CELPIP, or TEF).
Education: While not mandatory, having higher education credentials can enhance your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score.
Legal Status: You must have gained your work experience while legally residing and working in Canada.
Step 2: Gather Necessary Documents
Collect all required documents to support your application:
- Proof of Canadian work experience (job offer letters, pay stubs, T4 tax information, etc.).
- Language test results.
- Educational credentials (degree certificates, transcripts).
- Passport and identification documents.
- Police clearance certificates from all countries you’ve lived in for six months or more since turning 18.
- Medical examination results from an IRCC-approved panel physician
Step 3: Create an Express Entry Profile
Create an Express Entry profile online through the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website. You’ll need to provide detailed information about your work experience, education, language proficiency, and other personal details. Based on this information, you’ll receive a CRS score, which determines your rank in the Express Entry pool.
Step 4: Improve Your CRS Score
To increase your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA), consider ways to improve your CRS score:
- Retake language tests to achieve higher scores.
- Obtain additional educational credentials or get your existing credentials assessed if you haven’t already.
- Gain additional Canadian work experience, if possible.
- Secure a job offer from a Canadian employer.
Step 5: Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA)
Regular draws are conducted from the Express Entry pool, and candidates with the highest CRS scores receive an ITA. If you receive an ITA, you’ll have 60 days to submit a complete application for permanent residence.
Step 6: Submit Your Application
Prepare and submit your complete application online. This includes:
- All required forms and documents.
- Payment of the application processing fee and the Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF).
Step 7: Undergo Medical Examination and Obtain Police Clearances
As part of your application, you must undergo a medical examination by a designated panel physician. Additionally, obtain police clearance certificates from every country you’ve lived in for six months or more since the age of 18.
Step 8: Wait for a Decision
After submitting your application, IRCC will review it. Processing times vary, but you can check current processing times on the IRCC website. During this period, IRCC may request additional information or documents.
Step 9: Receive Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR)
If your application is approved, you will receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and a permanent resident visa (if applicable). You’ll need these documents when you enter Canada as a new permanent resident.
Step 10: Prepare for Landing in Canada
Before arriving in Canada, ensure you have all necessary documents, including your COPR, valid passport, and any other relevant paperwork. Plan your arrival and initial settlement in Canada, such as finding accommodation and understanding local services.
Canadian Experience Class Visa Processing Time
The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) Visa is a popular immigration pathway for skilled workers who have gained professional experience in Canada. One of the key considerations for applicants is the processing time for this visa. Understanding the timeline can help you plan better and set realistic expectations for your move to Canada. Here’s a detailed look at what you need to know about the CEC Visa processing time.
Average Processing Time
As of 2024, the average processing time for the Canadian Experience Class Visa is approximately 6 months from the date of submission of a complete application. This timeline is based on Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada’s (IRCC) most recent data and can vary depending on several factors.
Factors Affecting Processing Time
Several factors can influence the processing time of a CEC Visa application, including:
Completeness of Application: Submitting a complete application with all required documents and information is crucial. Incomplete applications can lead to delays, as the IRCC may need to request additional information.
Volume of Applications: The number of applications received by IRCC can impact processing times. Higher volumes of applications may lead to longer processing periods.
Background Checks: Comprehensive background checks, including security and criminal checks, can affect processing times. If any issues arise during these checks, it may extend the processing period.
Medical Examinations and Police Certificates: Delays in scheduling and completing medical examinations or obtaining police certificates from countries where you have lived can also impact the overall processing time.
Response Time: Your promptness in responding to any requests for additional information or documents from IRCC can affect the timeline. Delays in responding can lead to longer processing times.
Tips for Faster Processing
1. Ensure Complete Documentation
One of the primary reasons for delays in visa processing is incomplete or incorrect documentation. Mercury Visas helps you compile a thorough and accurate set of documents required for your application. Ensure you have:
- Proof of Canadian work experience (job offer letters, pay stubs, T4 tax information, etc.).
- Valid language test results.
- Educational credentials and their assessments (if applicable).
- Passport and identification documents.
- Police clearance certificates.
- Medical examination results.
By submitting a complete and accurate application the first time, you can avoid delays caused by requests for additional information.
2. Prepare Early for Language Tests
Language proficiency is a critical component of the CEC Visa application. Mercury Visas advises applicants to schedule their language tests (IELTS, CELPIP, or TEF) early in the process. Achieving the required Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) scores can take time, and early preparation can help you meet the criteria without delays.
3. Accurate Express Entry Profile
Creating an accurate and detailed Express Entry profile is crucial. Mercury Visas assists you in ensuring all information is correctly entered, which helps avoid issues later in the process. Make sure to:
- Accurately report your work experience.
- Provide precise details about your education and qualifications.
- Ensure your language test scores are correctly reflected.
4. Prompt Medical Exams and Police Certificates
Medical examinations and police certificates are mandatory for the CEC Visa application. Mercury Visas recommends scheduling your medical exam with an IRCC-approved panel physician as soon as you receive your Invitation to Apply (ITA). Similarly, start the process of obtaining police clearance certificates from all countries where you have lived for six months or more since turning 18. Completing these steps promptly can prevent delays in your application’s processing.
5. Regularly Check and Respond to IRCC Requests
Throughout the application process, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) may request additional information or documents. Mercury Visas advises regularly checking your application status and promptly responding to any IRCC requests. Delayed responses can significantly extend processing times.
6. Use Professional Guidance
The expertise of immigration consultants can make a significant difference in the speed and success of your application. Mercury Visas offers professional guidance to navigate the complexities of the CEC Visa application. Their experienced consultants provide personalized advice and ensure all aspects of your application are complete and accurate.
7. Optimize Your CRS Score
Your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score plays a crucial role in receiving an ITA. Mercury Visas helps you identify ways to improve your CRS score, such as:
- Retaking language tests to achieve higher scores.
- Gaining additional Canadian work experience.
- Obtaining further educational credentials or getting existing ones assessed.
- Securing a job offer from a Canadian employer.
8. Submit a Well-Organized Application
A well-organized application is easier for IRCC officers to review. Mercury Visas assists in organizing your documents systematically and ensuring that your application is clear and concise. This can help streamline the review process and reduce the likelihood of delays.
9. Stay Informed About Processing Times
Stay updated with current processing times for CEC Visa applications by regularly checking the IRCC website. Mercury Visas keeps you informed about any changes in processing times or requirements, ensuring you are always prepared and aware of the latest information.
10. Follow-Up Diligently
Mercury Visas provides continuous support and follow-up services to keep you informed about the status of your application. Their team liaises with immigration authorities on your behalf, addressing any queries or additional requirements that may arise during the processing period.