This year has brought numerous changes that have profoundly reshaped the experience of studying in Canada as an international student.
These changes underscore a crucial reality about immigrating to Canada as an international student or graduate: permanent residence (PR) is not assured.
Although Canada provides several avenues for work and potential permanent settlement post-graduation, these opportunities are not guaranteed, particularly in light of Canada's evolving immigration policies and priorities.
Why isn't permanent residence guaranteed for international students?
Graduates from Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) in Canada face several challenges on their path to obtaining permanent residence (PR), even if they are strong candidates.
Initially, graduates typically need to gain work experience to qualify for many economic PR programs. This often involves obtaining a Post Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which allows graduates to work anywhere in Canada for a specified period corresponding to their study duration. However, upcoming changes to this program could alter its terms.
Once eligibility is established, graduates seeking permanent residence must apply through relevant PR programs. Many opt for the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) program within the Express Entry system, designed for those with Canadian education and work experience. Alternatively, graduates may qualify for Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) specific to their province or territory, some of which target international graduates directly.
However, the transition to PR is far from straightforward, characterized by wait times and a new prioritization system based on Canada's labor market needs and demographic priorities. Recent adjustments in the Express Entry system now favor candidates with French language proficiency or professional experience in high-demand sectors, often prioritizing them over those with higher Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores. Similar preferences can influence various PNP streams, where attributes like professional experience, demographics, or family ties in the province or territory can impact PR status.
These factors can complicate the PR process for international graduates, especially considering the time constraints imposed by their PGWP validity. If a graduate fails to secure PR within this period and cannot obtain a new temporary residence status, they may be required to leave Canada. Although their Express Entry profile remains valid if they meet program eligibility, this adds another hurdle for graduates hoping to stay in Canada.
How can students enhance their chances of securing PR?
Despite these challenges, graduates of Canadian DLIs remain strong candidates for Canadian immigration. To maximize PR eligibility, international students should focus on gaining in-demand professional experience and improving language skills valued by the government.
For instance, under the Express Entry category-based selection, candidates with backgrounds in healthcare, STEM, trades, transportation, agriculture, or a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level 7 in French can receive priority for PR, with less emphasis on their CRS score.
In addition to federal programs, graduates should explore provincial opportunities such as Quebec's Quebec Experience Program (PEQ) and similar initiatives across provinces like:
- Alberta: Graduate Entrepreneur stream, Foreign Graduate Entrepreneur stream, Alberta Opportunity stream
- British Columbia: International Graduate category, International Post-Graduate category
- Manitoba: Manitoba Work Experience pathway, Employer Direct Recruitment pathway, International Education stream, Graduate Internship pathway
- Newfoundland and Labrador: International Graduate category, International Graduate Entrepreneur category
- Nova Scotia: International Graduate In-demand stream, International Graduate Entrepreneur stream
- Ontario: Human Capital category, Master's or PhD category, Employer Job Offer category
- Saskatchewan: Saskatchewan Experience category—Student sub-category, International Graduate Entrepreneur category
By strategically aligning their skills and experience with these opportunities, international graduates can improve their prospects for achieving permanent residence in Canada.
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