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First visit? Here's how the map works.

Steps run in order. A dashed step is blocked: something before it has to be finished first.

Check a step off when it's done. Whatever it was blocking unlocks by itself.

Some steps are IRCC's to make, not yours. Those show as waiting and can't be checked off.

Start with step 1: Pick a PGWP-eligible school

Study permit → PGWP → PRAfter you graduateStep 12 of 13

Blocked1 year opens CEC · RequiredYou are here

12. Build Canadian work experience

Skilled work in Canada on your PGWP is what makes the Canadian Experience Class reachable.

Waiting on: Apply for a post-graduation work permit

Open this step

The rest of the pathway, folded up

This view fits the whole pathway on one screen: the step you're on is enlarged, its neighbours are shown small, and everything further out is folded into a summary bar you can open. The idea is borrowed from degree-of-interest trees (Card and Nation, 2002).

Times and fees on this page are rough and change without notice. Check canada.ca before you pay for anything or make a plan around a date.

Step 12 of 13 · RequiredClose

Build Canadian work experience

BlockedRequired

The authority on this stepExpress Entry: who can applycanada.ca · Government of Canada

IRCC is the only authority here. Our summary is here to help you find your way. If anything below differs from the official page, the official page is right. Requirements, fees and processing times change without notice.

Our plain-language summaryLast reviewed 29 July 2026

Skilled work in Canada on your PGWP is what makes the Canadian Experience Class reachable. One year of qualifying full-time skilled work within the last three years is the usual threshold.

Why it's required: Not all work counts. The job's classification decides whether the experience is 'skilled' for immigration purposes, so check the code before you take the role, not after.

Usual threshold1 yearFull-time, or the part-time equivalent, in the last three years.

The job's codeDecides itCheck the National Occupational Classification before accepting.

Keep recordsFrom day oneReference letters, pay slips and T4s, gathered as you go.

Documents you'll need

Reference letters stating hours, duties and the job's code
Pay slips and T4 slips
Your employment contracts

Before this step

BlockedApply for a post-graduation work permit

Finishing this unlocks: Apply for permanent residence