Work experience is a key factor in Canada’s Express Entry system, significantly impacting your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score and eligibility for immigration programs like the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), Canadian Experience Class (CEC), and Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP). Understanding how work experience is assessed can help you maximize your Express Entry profile and improve your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
1. Minimum Work Experience Requirements
To qualify for Express Entry, your work experience must meet the following criteria:
- Type of Work: Must be classified under Canada’s National Occupational Classification (NOC) in TEER (Training, Education, Experience, and Responsibilities) categories 0, 1, 2, or 3.
- Duration: At least one year (1,560 hours) of continuous full-time or equivalent part-time paid work experience within the last ten years.
- Legitimacy: Experience must be verifiable through reference letters, contracts, and pay stubs.
Different programs have specific requirements:
- FSWP: At least one year of work experience in a skilled occupation.
- CEC: At least one year of Canadian work experience in the past three years.
- FSTP: At least two years of work experience in a skilled trade within the last five years.
2. How Work Experience Affects CRS Score
Express Entry assigns CRS points based on years of skilled work experience, both in Canada and abroad.
| Years of Experience | Foreign Work Experience (Max 50 points) | Canadian Work Experience (Max 80 points) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 year | 13 points | 40 points |
| 2 years | 25 points | 53 points |
| 3 years | 50 points | 64 points |
| 4 years | – | 72 points |
| 5+ years | – | 80 points |
3. Maximizing CRS Score with Work Experience
- Gain More Experience: The more years of skilled experience you have, the higher your CRS score.
- Canadian Work Experience: Working in Canada can significantly boost your CRS score, making programs like Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) or employer-sponsored jobs beneficial.
- Improve Combination Factors: Work experience combined with higher education, language proficiency, and a valid job offer can increase your CRS score.
- Get a Provincial Nomination (PNP): Many Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) prioritize candidates with work experience in high-demand occupations, offering a 600-point boost in CRS.
4. Providing Proof of Work Experience
When submitting your application, you need:
- Reference letters from past employers detailing job title, duties, salary, and working hours.
- Employment contracts showing job start and end dates.
- Pay stubs or tax documents as proof of salary and employment.