Express Entry — Canadian Experience Class vs H-1B Specialty Occupation

If you're choosing between these two, the question usually comes down to where you want to work and what you already have lined up. The H-1B requires an employer sponsor and lottery luck, while the CEC rewards existing Canadian work experience with a points-based pathway. Your location preference and current employment situation will determine which makes sense.

1. 01

   You have a job offer

   Pick CEC

   CEC doesn't require a job offer, so you can apply based on past Canadian work experience alone.

   Pick H-1B

   H-1B is your only option since it requires employer sponsorship before you apply.

2. 02

   You're already in Canada

   Pick CEC

   CEC directly rewards your Canadian work experience and converts it into a permanent residency pathway.

   Pick H-1B

   H-1B locks you into the US and won't help your Canadian situation.

3. 03

   You want to minimize costs

   Pick CEC

   CEC costs $1,570 USD, making it roughly 36% cheaper to apply.

   Pick H-1B

   H-1B costs $2,460 USD, which is higher than the Canadian option.

4. 04

   You prefer no language testing

   Pick CEC

   CEC requires a language test, adding an extra step to your process.

   Pick H-1B

   H-1B doesn't require a language test, simplifying your application.