For international students in Canada, the road from study to permanent residency (PR)
is clearly mapped out. Canada’s immigration system rewards those who have studied
and worked in the country, making it one of the best destinations for students who wish
to eventually settle as permanent residents. In this blog, we’ll explore the pathways
available for students to move from temporary status to PR.
How Studying in Canada Leads to Permanent Residency
Canada has implemented numerous policies to ensure that international students have
a smooth transition from education to permanent residency. After completing your
studies at a designated learning institution (DLI), you may be eligible for a Post-
Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). The PGWP allows you to gain valuable Canadian
work experience, which is crucial for eligibility in PR streams like the Canadian
Experience Class (CEC).
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
The PGWP is a cornerstone for many international students aiming to transition to PR. It
allows graduates to work in Canada for up to three years, depending on the length of
their academic program.
- Eligibility Requirements: To qualify for a PGWP, you must have completed a
full-time program that lasted at least 8 months at a DLI. Your study program must
lead to a degree, diploma, or certificate. Short-term language courses and certain
non-credit programs do not qualify. - Length of PGWP: The length of your work permit is determined by the duration
of your study program. If your program was less than two years but more than
eight months, your PGWP will typically match the length of your studies. For
programs of two years or more, you can receive a three-year PGWP.
The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) Pathway
The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) is one of the most popular PR programs for
international students. To qualify, you need at least 12 months of skilled Canadian work
experience (NOC skill level 0, A, or B), typically gained through your PGWP. Once you
have this work experience, you can apply through Express Entry.
Advantages of CEC:
- You don’t need a job offer to apply.
- Canadian work experience significantly improves your CRS score in the Express
Entry system. - Applicants are exempt from certain proof-of-funds requirements that apply to
other PR streams.
Tips for International Students Seeking PR
- Maximize Your Work Experience: Gain skilled work experience during and after
your studies. Any full-time or part-time skilled work you do while on a PGWP will
count toward your CEC eligibility. - Improve Your Language Scores: Strong English or French test scores (IELTS,
CELPIP, or TEF) can drastically improve your Express Entry CRS score. - Stay Informed on Immigration Policy: Keep up to date with changes in
immigration policies and programs, as new pathways or immigration draws may
benefit international graduates.
Additional Pathways for PR
- Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs): Some provinces have specific streams for
international graduates, such as Ontario’s Masters Graduate Stream, where no
job offer is required, or British Columbia’s International Graduate stream. - Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP): This program allows graduates from Atlantic
Canada (Newfoundland and Labrador, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Prince
Edward Island) to apply for PR with the support of a designated employer.
Canada offers multiple avenues for international graduates to obtain PR, including the
PGWP and CEC programs. By gaining work experience and staying informed,
international students can smoothly transition from study to permanent residency. The
journey from studying in Canada to obtaining PR is achievable with the right planning.
For personalized guidance on your PR application after graduation, reach out to Dove
Immigration Services.