International students completing their studies in Canada often aspire to settle permanently in the country. Fortunately, diverse pathways exist for them to transition to Canadian permanent residency, often favoring applicants with provincial ties, Canadian work experience, or educational credentials. Adherence to study permit conditions is crucial for safeguarding future immigration prospects, as violations may jeopardize subsequent applications.
Pathways to Permanent Residency
Explore immigration programs tailored for international students aiming for Canadian permanent residency.
- Canadian Experience Class
- Federal Skilled Worker Program
- Provincial Nominee Programs
- Quebec Immigration Options
- Post- Graduation Work Permits
1. Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
The CEC program, operating through the Express Entry immigration system, provides a fast-track opportunity to attain Canadian PR. To qualify, applicants must meet various criteria, such as age, language proficiency, and education level. In addition, applicants must submit a minimum of 12 months of skilled work experience in Canada within the last three years or an equivalent duration in part-time engagement. The work experience must be continuous and full-time. Upon acquiring this level of work experience, CEC emerges as an excellent immigration opportunity for international students!
CEC stipulates that work experience acquired during full-time study does not fulfil the 12-month requirement. Therefore, international students cannot include work experience gained during their study program in meeting this criterion.
International students will likely qualify for a post-graduation work permit upon graduation. This permit allows them to accumulate the required work experience for CEC qualification.
2. Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSW)
The FSW program, administered via the Express Entry immigration system, is a potential option for international student graduates with skilled work experience.
Unlike the Canadian Experience Class, the Federal Skilled Worker Program does not necessitate Canadian work experience, making it a suitable choice for graduates who have acquired skilled work experience outside Canada.
The FSW program operates on a point-based calculation system. It employs a points-based Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score to automatically assess and rank candidates against each other.
International students who meet the eligibility requirements with a competitive CRS rank score have an excellent route to permanent residency.
The FSW program requires applicants to demonstrate a minimum of 12 months of continuous full-time skilled work experience, whether completed in any country or equivalent to part-time experience. It is essential to highlight that international students who have yet to enter the workforce will not be eligible for this program.
3. Provincial Nominee Programs
Canada's provinces and territories manage their unique immigration programs, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). These programs operate differently as they are tailored to address the specific needs of each province or territory.
Preference is often given to applicants connected to the province, such as those with previous studies or work experience in that region. International students completing their studies in a specific province are eligible to apply for the province-specific PNP.
4. Quebec Immigration Options
Quebec operates a distinct immigration system with unique requirements and procedures, separate from the rest of Canada. Yet, similar to the national framework, Quebec's immigration programs provide advantages for international students pursuing permanent residence, offering two main programs tailored for this purpose.
A. Quebec Experience Program (PEQ):
PEQ is well-suited for individuals with French language proficiency who have work experience in Quebec. The individual must have temporarily resided in Quebec with the primary objective of working or studying and have adhered to the stipulated conditions of their stay.
Under this program, applicants can apply for a Certificat de sélection du Québec (CSQ), the Quebec selection certificate. Upon obtaining a CSQ, the applicant can apply for Canadian PR.
B. Quebec Skilled Worker (QSW):
This program is a potential choice for international students in Quebec who have completed their study program or are in the process of completing their educational programs and awaiting to obtain the credentials.
Unlike PEQ, QSW does not mandate French proficiency but requires candidates to meet a minimum score on the program's points assessment grid.
5. Post-Graduation Work Permits
Post-graduation work permits (PGWPs) are open work permits granted to international students upon completing graduation at a Canadian Designated Learning Institution (DLI). These permits offer the flexibility to work for any employer, with no restrictions on working hours or location within Canada.
The validity of PGWPs ranges from eight months to three years, providing an excellent opportunity to gain valuable Canadian work experience for international students. Accumulating work experience in Canada enhances the chances of obtaining Canadian permanent residence for the permit holder.
ImmiEd Global is committed to guiding you through each stage of the process to become an international student in Canada. Further, we provide expert advice on transitioning your Canadian education into Permanent Residency. Given Canada's array of study options and immigration programs, finding the most suitable fit for you can be overwhelming, but we are here to assist and simplify your journey.