How to Get Canadian Permanent Residence After your Studies
May 11, 2023
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Congratulations on completing your studies in Canada! As an international student, you may be considering the next steps in your journey. One option that many international students explore is becoming a permanent resident in Canada. This article will discuss how to become a permanent resident in Canada and the various pathways available for international students.
The importance of permanent residency for international students cannot be overstated. By becoming a permanent resident, you gain the freedom to live and work anywhere in Canada and have the opportunity to build a long-term future in this beautiful country. With a wealth of opportunities and a high quality of life, it is no wonder many international students choose to make Canada their permanent home.
Pathways to Canadian Permanent Residence for International Students
Several pathways are available for international students to become permanent residents in Canada. Here are some of the most common options:
Express Entry
Express Entry is a points-based online system that manages applications for permanent residence under three economic immigration programs:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
- Aimed at highly skilled professionals with foreign work experience.
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
- Targeted at qualified tradespeople with experience in a skilled trade.
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
- Designed for individuals with Canadian work experience, including international students who have gained work experience in Canada after graduation.
To apply for Express Entry, you must create an online profile and be ranked based on age, education, language proficiency, and work experience. The highest-ranking candidates are invited to apply for permanent residence through regular draws.
Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
Each Canadian province and territory has its own Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), which allows them to nominate individuals for permanent residence based on local labor market needs. Many PNPs have specific streams for international students who have graduated from a post-secondary institution in the province. Some of these streams include:
Program: Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP)
Stream: International Graduate Category
This program targets international graduates who have completed their studies at an approved post-secondary institution in Alberta. Applicants must have a valid Post-Graduation Work Permit, secure a job offer from an Alberta employer, and demonstrate language proficiency in English or French.
Program: British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP)
Stream: International Graduate Category
This program is designed for international students wanting to move to British Columbia who have graduated from an eligible Canadian post-secondary institution within the last three years. Applicants must have a job offer in a skilled occupation and meet language requirements.
Program: Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP)
Stream: International Education Stream
This stream is for international students who have graduated from a post-secondary institution in Manitoba. It offers three pathways: Career Employment Pathway, Graduate Internship Pathway, and International Student Entrepreneur Pilot.
Program: New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program (NBPNP)
Stream: Post-Graduate Entrepreneurial Stream
Program: Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program (NLPNP)
Stream: International Graduate Category
Program: Northwest Territories Nominee Program (NTNP)
Stream: International Graduate Category
Program: Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP)
Stream: International Graduate Entrepreneur Stream
Program: Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP)
Stream: International Student Stream
Program: Prince Edward Island Provincial Nominee Program (PEI PNP)
Stream: International Graduate Stream
Program: Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP)
Stream: International Graduate Category
Program: Yukon Nominee Program (YNP)
Stream: Yukon Express Entry (YEE) Stream
TR to PR pathway
In May 2021, the Canadian government introduced a temporary public policy called the Temporary Resident to Permanent Resident (TR to PR) pathway. This policy aims to support international students and workers already in Canada who have contributed to the country's pandemic response or economic growth. To be eligible, you must have at least one year of Canadian work experience in a healthcare-related or another essential occupation or have graduated from a Canadian post-secondary institution and be employed in Canada at the time of application. Learn more about Canada's TR to PR pathways here.
Pilot Program Streams for International Students
Some pilot programs have been designed to target specific industries or regions in Canada and may be suitable for international students. Examples include the Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program (AIPP), aimed at attracting skilled workers and international graduates to the Atlantic provinces, and the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP), which focuses on attracting skilled workers and graduates to smaller communities in Canada.
Start-up Visa
The Start-up Visa Program is designed for immigrant entrepreneurs who have the potential to build innovative businesses in Canada. Suppose you have a qualifying business idea and can secure support from a designated organization (venture capital fund, angel investor group, or business incubator). In that case, you may be eligible for this program. Learn more about how you can become a permanent resident through the Canadian Start-up Visa program.
How to Become Eligible for a Permanent Residency Program Through a Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP)
After completing your studies in Canada, you may be eligible for a PGWP, which allows you to work in Canada for up to three years, depending on the length of your study program. Gaining Canadian work experience through a PGWP can help you become eligible for permanent residency programs such as the CEC or PNPs. It allows you to build work experience in Canada over three years.
To be eligible for a PGWP, you must have completed a full-time program of at least eight months at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada. You must also apply for the work permit within 180 days of receiving your final grades. Learn more about how the PGWP could be your pathway to Canadian permanent residency.
If you want to build a bright future in Canada after completing your studies, you must ensure you choose the right program. One of the best ways to do so is to consult with a certified immigration professional like a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC). RCICs are authorized to evaluate visa applications on behalf of the applicant. They are hired to evaluate the visa application and determine whether or not the applicant is eligible to apply for any of the 100+ immigration programs and visas. RCICs are immigration and citizenship professionals who analyze the visa application and submit it on behalf of the applicant. They walk applicants through the visa application process and offer guidance on the best options for applying for a visa. RCICs can provide a different perspective on immigration options and offer honest and reliable feedback on the applicant's options.
Things to Keep in Mind When Applying for Permanent Residence in Canada
As you embark on the journey to becoming a permanent resident in Canada, consider the following tips to increase your chances of success:
Start Planning Early
Research your options and eligibility requirements well in advance to give yourself the best chance of success.
Improve your Language Skills
Proficiency in English or French is a key factor in many permanent residency programs, so invest time improving your language skills. Learn more about how to improve your Canadian language ability here.
Gain Relevant Work Experience
Many permanent residency programs value Canadian work experience, so try to gain relevant experience through internships, co-op placements, or post-graduate work permits. Learn more about how to land a job in Canada here.
Build a Strong Application
Ensure your application is accurate, complete, and well-presented. Consider seeking professional advice to help navigate the complexities of the immigration process. An RCIC can make a huge difference in improving your application.
Stay Informed
Immigration policies and programs can change, so stay updated on the latest news and developments. You can do so by following our news feed or by following us on social media.
Why Canadian Permanent Residency Could Be The Right Move For You
Becoming a permanent resident in Canada can open up opportunities for international students. With permanent residency, you can:
Access Social Benefits
Permanent residents can get most Canadian citizens' social benefits, including health care coverage, education, and social security. This provides a safety net and peace of mind.Gain a Sense of Belonging and Community
As permanent residents build a long-term future in Canada, they gain a sense of belonging and community.Free Education for Children
Permanent residents can utilize the plethora of free education for their children in Canada.Visa Renewal is Easier
Renewing a permanent resident visa is easier than renewing a temporary visa.Bring Your Family
Permanent residents can sponsor their family members to become permanent residents, allowing them to live, study, and work in Canada. Here are a few ways you can bring your family to Canada.Universal Healthcare
Canada offers excellent medical healthcare benefits to its citizens and permanent residents. Canadians consider universal access to publicly funded health services a "fundamental value." Learn more about Canada's healthcare here.Protection Under Canadian law
Permanent residents have protection under Canadian law and the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.Roadmap to Citizenship
Permanent residents can work towards Canadian citizenship, which offers additional benefits such as the right to vote and hold a Canadian passport. Learn more about Canadian citizenship here.FAQs
How Long Does it Take to Become a Permanent Resident?
The processing time for permanent residency applications varies depending on the program you are applying for and your circumstances. Express Entry applications can be processed in as little as six months, while Provincial Nominee Programs may take longer. It is important to note that processing times can be affected by factors such as the volume of applications received and the complexity of your case. Learn more about Canada's immigration processing times here.
Can I Apply for Permanent Residency While Still a Student?
Yes, applying for permanent residency while you are still a student in Canada is possible. However, you must meet the eligibility requirements for the program you are applying to, which may include gaining Canadian work experience.
Do I Need a Job Offer to Apply for Permanent Residency?
Not necessarily. While some programs, such as the FSWP, require a job offer, others do not. For example, the CEC is designed for individuals who have gained Canadian work experience, while some PNPs may allow you to apply without a job offer. Learn more about how to move to Canada without a job offer here.
Embracing Your Future in Canada
Becoming a permanent resident in Canada is a significant milestone for international students. It allows you to build a long-term future in this beautiful country, access social benefits, and work towards Canadian citizenship. With so many pathways available, it is essential to research your options and plan to give yourself the best chance of success.
Remember to stay informed on the latest policies and programs, and consider seeking professional advice to help navigate the complexities of the immigration process. By taking these steps and embracing the opportunities available, you can unlock your future in Canada and build a bright and prosperous future for yourself and your family.
Are you an international student in Canada considering permanent residency? Then you can benefit from the support of an experienced, knowledgeable immigration professional like an RCIC. An RCIC can personalize an immigration strategy based on your unique circumstances. They can guide you through every step of your application and ensure that it is compliant without you having to do any work, saving you time and frustration. They can also liaise with the Canadian Immigration Authorities and your employer on your behalf, which can be a discouraging, time-consuming, and exhausting experience. They can answer your questions and offer honest and reliable feedback on your options, which could broaden your immigration opportunities to Canada.