The Canadian government has set the requirements and eligibility for international students to transition from a Canadian study permit to permanent residency in Canada.
The government explained that foreign students in Canada who are currently studying can apply for permanent residency during their studies or even after graduating from their studies, but it has specified certain requirements, in addition to the eligibility of the program to which they are applying.
Permanent Residency Pathways for Foreign Students in Canada
It is noteworthy that Canada offers many paths for permanent residency for international and foreign students, as research has shown that students who received education in Canada are more likely to succeed in the Canadian labor market.
The PGWP provides international students with an open work permit to work anywhere and for any employer in Canada.
Eligibility for a post-graduation work permit in Canada (PGWP).
- The necessity of completing studies in an academic or vocational training program for at least 8 months, within designated and qualified educational institutions.
- The student must complete the study program towards a degree, diploma or DLI certificate.
- Obtain full-time student status during each academic session of the program or programs of study completed for part of the post-graduation work permit application.
- Necessity of obtaining a transcript and official letter from the qualifying DLI, confirming that the student has met all requirements to complete their program of study.
It is noteworthy that the main benefit of the PGWP permit for post-graduation work permits for foreign students is to provide students with the necessary practical experience that makes the student eligible for permanent residency and competition for Canadian immigration, given that many paths reward candidates with Canadian work experience.
Express Entry system for managing Canadian permanent residency applications
This system manages 3 federal skilled worker immigration programs to manage permanent residency applications, which are as follows:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP).
- Canadian Experience Class CEC.
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP).
The CEC path is the popular option for foreign students in Canada to obtain permanent residency, if these students have obtained Canadian work experience, and the applicant for the CEC must meet the following criteria:
- The student must obtain at least one year of skilled work experience within 36 months from the date of submitting the application.
- It is also required to meet the Canadian language standard of CLB 5 First Intermediate for NOC TEER Category 2 or 3 positions, or CLB 7 Sufficient Intermediate Proficiency for NOC TERR Category 0 or 1 positions.
- Individuals who have work experience in Quebec can also apply to the Quebec Experience category.
Provincial Nominee Program PNPs
The PNP also allows provinces and territories to nominate individuals wishing to immigrate and interested in settling in a particular province.
Many PNP streams also reward candidates who have studied and worked in Canada.
