James Metcalfe – Pace Immigration: In what has become a seemingly daily occurrence, the Minister of Citizenship and Immigration, Jason Kenney, has made another policy announcement. In this instance, he has officially announced the changes to the Canadian Experience Class program (CEC).

From January 1, 2013, students and persons with permission to work in Canada will only have to work for one year to qualify for CEC.  In addition, students who were only eligible for one-year work permits will now have two-years permits, which will make qualifying for CEC much easier.

There is no downside to the changes. However, aspiring applicants should understand that the rules are quite stringent. You have to prove that you have worked in a skilled occupation in what is commonly called an O, A or B occupation under the National Occupational Classification.

The problem is that young people starting out in their careers cannot always find jobs at those levels, and have in the past attempted to embellish their position in an organization to qualify. Citizenship and Immigration staff who review these application are aware of attempts to pad letters of reference and work reference letters. Canada Border Services Agency staff are known to make calls to employers in order to verify the truthfulness of an applicant’s claims.

Before you start any job, make certain it will let you qualify at the appropriate skill level, and be sure that your letter of reference accurately reflects the duties and responsibilities of the position.