
Canada is among the world’s most popular study destinations today welcoming more than 700,000 international students every year. In addition to security, multi-culturalism, and quality of life, one of the biggest reasons for Canada’s popularity among international students is the quality of Canadian educational institutions at all levels. To obtain a study permit in Canada, you must first be accepted by a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) and then show that you meet the eligibility requirements imposed by IRCC. These conditions include (but not limited to) financial ability to study and live in Canada for your study duration, lack of criminal history, and good health. You also need to show the deciding immigration officer that you will return to your home country after completing your studies.
Study permit holders may be eligible to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) upon completion of their studies. PGWP is an open work visa that allows you to work for any employer in Canada. This is an opportunity for you to settle in Canada. The validity of your PGWP varies from 8 months to 3 years depending on the duration of your study program.
Permanent Residency Outlook For Students
Studying in Canada does not, in itself, lead to permanent residency. Therefore, if your ultimate goal is to stay in Canada permanently, you need to plan ahead. For example, some Canadian provinces have defined Provincial Nominee Programs that allow international graduates to apply for provincial nomination (leading to PR) if they meet certain eligibility criteria. Your success in these programs require careful prospective planning. For example, you can apply for permanent residency in Ontario by obtaining a PhD, or you can apply for permanent residency by obtaining a master’s degree in some fields in British Columbia. Remember that each province sets its own criteria that can change at any moment without prior notice.
In addition to Provincial options, there also are some federal programs that you can use to become a Canadian permanent resident after completing your education. The Express Entry program is one of the federal programs that you can use. This is a point-based selection program that will give you extra points for studying and working in Canada. It is important that you understand that both the federal and provincial programs have complex selection criteria that you need to be familiar when planning your studies in Canada.
Frequently Asked Questions
Stay tuned. We will update your questions to this section soon.