Students from various locations worldwide dream of studying in Canada because it is one of the most educated countries, with more than half of its population possessing higher degrees. Additionally, Canada has different programs available for International students who want to stay after their studies.
Canada offers an outstanding educational landscape in every field, whether Science, engineering, arts, or business and Technology. It provides a wide range of universities and is at the forefront of shaping students’ futures.
Some of these well-known Canadian institutions stand out because they are affordable, have cutting-edge research opportunities, excellent academic standards, and support students.
After completing their studies, international students plan to get permanent residency in Canada. They can choose any pathway to transition to Canadian PR.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the basics of a Canadian student visa and the Immigration pathways for international students in Canada.
Basics of a Canada Student Visa?
The Canada student visa is similar to a Canada visitor visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization program (eTA). However, the student must also hold a study permit to be eligible to study. It is a document that will enable beginning your education in Canada.
A student permit lets you attend schooling at a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada. The study permit allows you to be present in Canada for a limited period, namely the duration of the study.
Canada Student Visa Requirements:
Certain documents are needed to apply for a study permit in Canada;
An admission letter from a Designated Learning Institute (DLI) in Canada, an English proficiency test result, passing a medical exam, and proving to the Canadian government that you can financially support yourself throughout your studies.
Why Canada?
There are numerous reasons and benefits why international students dream of studying in Canada, ranging from academic excellence, wide research opportunities, cultural diversity, an opportunity to work, and a safe and stable environment that will help you pave the way for a better and brighter future.
Plentiful Research Opportunities: Every student desires a Canada student Visa because Canada provides ample research opportunities to students and research scholars. The Canadian government supports telecommunication, medicine, agriculture, and IT research. Furthermore, different programs in Canada cover finances related to research in Technology and Science.
Potential Immigration Opportunities: Students can get a work permit and stay in Canada for up to three years after completing their studies in Canada. After gaining international work experience, they can apply for PR later. Hence, studying in Canada serves as a pathway to Canadian Immigration.
Immigration Pathways for International Students in Canada
To obtain PR status in Canada, students should make sure to meet and follow the conditions of their study permit, as violating them can reduce their chances of immigration.
There are numerous ways for international students in Canada to convert their study visas into Permanent Residency. Every program has different requirements and eligibility criteria, so students need to choose the one that best fits their profiles.
- Canadian Experience Class
- Federal Skilled Worker Program
- Provincial Nominee Programs
- Quebec Immigration Options
- Post-Graduation Work Permits
- Extending Study Permit
Canadian Express Class (CEC):
The CEC is a program that helps foreign students and workers who are already inside Canada apply their designated work or education experience toward their permanent residency application. At least one year of work experience in Canada is mandatory to obtain PR through this program.
Extending your study permit:
When your study permit is about to expire, you will need to apply for a study permit extension before the expiry date. Although the extension does not merely lead to permanent residency, it can be a pathway by applying through programs like the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) and the Provincial Nominees Program (PNP).
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs):
Permanent residency can be granted by specific provinces in Canada to international students, as each province has its custom-designed immigration programs with varying eligibility criteria and application processes. This pathway of obtaining a PR is the most popular as it has the fastest processing timings.
Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) in Canada:
A Post-Graduate Work Permit is essential for international students who want to work in Canada after completing their studies and gaining valuable experience in their respective fields.
Seeking a job in a foreign country through a PGWP may bring tons of advantages not only in employment but also in terms of immigration.
Express Entry:
Express Entry is considered the fastest, easiest, and most popular immigration method among international students; application processing takes about six months or less. By the year 2025, Canada is planning to invite almost half a million newcomers through various Express entry streams: Federal skilled trades (FST), Canadian Experience Class (CEC), and Federal Skilled Worker (FSW).
Quebec Immigration Program:
The Quebec immigration system follows the same pattern as other immigration programs in Canada. It is one of the most beneficial immigration programs for international students in Canada.
The two prominent streams in this program are the Quebec Experience Program (PEQ) and the Quebec Skilled Worker (QSW).
Canada Prime Immigrations International Student Program
If you are planning to immigrate to Canada as an international student, CPI is here to help you guide and assist you throughout the process. From applying to choosing the correct program, CPI has got everything covered.
Their firm’s expert services in the immigration process in Canada guarantee that those individuals and students who wish to settle down in Canada get the right expertise and support when they go through the immigration process.
Conclusion
Canada has become an ideal Country for international students because of its academic excellence and high quality of education. Moreover, the QS World University Rankings 2023 included 26 Canadian Universities among its ranked institutions.
Overall, Canada is an ideal destination for international students due to its wide range of educational opportunities and high quality of education, which not only cater to students but also provide a pathway for their future trajectory of obtaining a Canada PR.
We have highlighted several ways to transition smoothly into getting a Permanent Residency in Canada if you are an international student.