How to get Canada PR after 2024 for international students?

Canada is a sought-after destination for international students due to its high-quality education system, diverse culture, and excellent career opportunities. For many students, the dream doesn’t end with graduation; it extends to securing permanent residency (PR) in Canada, a pivotal milestone in their journey towards a fulfilling life in the Great White North.

How to get Canada PR after 2024 for International Students

To get Canada PR after 2024 for international students, you can consider pathways such as the Express Entry system, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), Canadian Experience Class (CEC), or through family sponsorship. Each pathway has its own eligibility criteria, so it’s important to research and choose the one that best fits your situation.

Why is PR important for International Students:

• PR status grants a sense of stability and security, affording students the freedom to live and work in Canada without the constraints of time limits.
• PR holders gain access to an array of social benefits, including healthcare, education, and social services, contributing to their overall well-being.
• PR serves as a crucial stepping stone towards Canadian citizenship, offering students the opportunity to fully integrate into Canadian society and participate in civic life.
• PR status enhances career prospects by signalling a long-term commitment to Canada, making international students more attractive to Canadian employers.
• PR status enables students to sponsor family members for PR, facilitating the reunification of loved ones and fostering stronger familial ties.

In essence, obtaining PR in Canada represents far more than a legal status; it symbolizes the gateway to a brighter and more promising future, both personally and professionally, for international students seeking to call Canada home.

Overview of Canada’s PR Programs:

Let’s explore the pathways available to international students aiming to obtain permanent residency (PR) in Canada after completing their studies:

Canadian Experience Class (CEC):

Designed for individuals with Canadian work experience, including international students who have finished their studies in Canada.

Requirements include at least one year of skilled work experience in Canada within the last three years, proficiency in English or French, and meeting other eligibility criteria.

The CEC pathway facilitates the transition from temporary status to PR for eligible candidates.

Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP):

Part of the Express Entry system, managing PR applications for skilled workers. International students with a Canadian educational credential can apply, provided they meet criteria such as a valid job offer or sufficient points based on factors like age, education, work experience, language proficiency, and adaptability.

FSWP offers a direct route to PR for eligible candidates.

Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs):

Every Canadian province and territory have its own PNPs, often with specific streams for international graduates.

Requirements generally include completing studies in the province, having a job offer or work experience in the province, and intending to settle there.

PNPs allow provinces to nominate candidates for PR based on their economic needs and priorities.

Quebec Immigration Options:

Quebec has distinct immigration programs separate from federal programs.

International students who studied in Quebec may qualify for the Quebec Experience Program (PEQ), which includes requirements like completing an eligible program in Quebec, possessing adequate French language skills (for some streams), and having work experience in Quebec.

Quebec’s immigration pathways offer PR opportunities for students.

Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP):

The PGWP is an open work permit issued to international students who have completed their studies in Canada, allowing them to remain and work temporarily after graduation.

It provides international students with the opportunity to gain valuable work experience in the Canadian job market. This Canadian work experience is highly valued by immigration programs when assessing eligibility for PR as it adds points to their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score.

Work experience gained through the PGWP directly contributes to eligibility for PR through various pathways including Express Entry, Canadian Experience Class (CEC), Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)

the PGWP serves as a link between academic studies and permanent residency, empowering international students to become PR holders in Canada.

Eligibility Criteria for Obtaining PR in Canada:

The general eligibility criteria for obtaining permanent residency (PR) in Canada through various programs, along with any recent updates and application processing timeline is highlighted in the table below:

Program	Eligibility Criteria	Recent Updates
Canadian Experience Class (CEC)	At least one year of skilled work experience in Canada within the last three years. Proficiency in English or French.	No significant recent changes reported.
Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)	Canadian educational credential (degree, diploma, or certificate). Secure a valid job offer or earn sufficient points based on factors like age, education, work experience, language proficiency, and adaptability. Create an Express Entry profile and receive a ranking.	No significant recent changes reported.
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)	Completion of studies in a specific Canadian province.  Some PNPs require a job offer or relevant work experience in the province. Demonstrate intention to settle in the province.	PNPs continue to evolve, with provinces adjusting their criteria periodically.
Quebec Immigration Options	Completion of an eligible program in Quebec. French language skills (for some streams). Work experience in Quebec.	No significant recent changes reported.
Post graduation work permit (PGWP)	Must have graduated from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada. Complete at least 50% of their program in Canada. language proficiency and valid study permits.	master’s degree graduates may be eligible for a 3-year PGWP.

Remember that this table provides an overview of general guidelines of obtaining PR in Canada through different pathways, and specific requirements may vary based on individual circumstances, stay informed to maximize your chances of obtaining PR in Canada! 

Application Process For Obtaining PR in Canada:

Let’s walk through the step-by-step process for international students applying for permanent residency (PR) in Canada, covering both the Express Entry route and the Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).

1.Express Entry PR Application Process:

a. Create an Express Entry Profile:

• Visit the official Express Entry website and complete the online form accurately.
• Provide details about your education, work experience, language proficiency, and other relevant factors.
• Receive a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score based on your profile.

b. Improve Your CRS Score (if needed):

• Enhance your profile by improving factors like language test scores, education, or work experience.
• Consider retaking language tests or gaining additional work experience.

c. Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA):

• Regular Express Entry draws occur, and if your CRS score meets the cut-off, you’ll receive an ITA.
• You have 90 days to submit your PR application.

d. Submit Your Complete Application:

• Fill out the online PR application form and upload required documents (e.g., passport, language test results, educational transcripts, work reference letters).
• Pay the necessary fees.

e. Medical Examination and Police Clearance Certificate (PCC):

• Undergo a medical examination by an approved panel physician.
• Obtain PCC from countries where you’ve lived for more than six months.

f. Submit Your Application:

• Review your application thoroughly and ensure all forms are accurately completed.
• Submit your application online and that’s it!

• Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) Application Process:

a. Research PNPs:

• Explore PNPs offered by specific provinces or territories and identify those that align with your profile.

b. Check Eligibility:

• Each PNP has unique eligibility criteria, so ensure you meet the requirements for the specific PNP stream you’re interested in.

c. Apply for Provincial Nomination:

• Apply directly to the province or territory, submitting required documents and forms.
• Some PNPs require a job offer or connection to the province.

d. Receive Provincial Nomination:

• If nominated, you’ll receive a certificate or letter from the province, which you can use to enhance your Express Entry profile.

e. Update Your Express Entry Profile:

• Log in to your Express Entry account and indicate that you have a provincial nomination.
• Your CRS score will increase significantly.

f. Receive an ITA and Submit PR Application:

• Follow steps 3 to 6 from the Express Entry process.

Recent Changes to Canadian Visa Policies for International Students:

Intake Cap on International Student Permits:

• The Canadian government has instituted an intake cap on applications for international student permits, aiming to stabilize new growth over a two-year period.
• For 2024, this cap is anticipated to result in approximately 360,000 approved study permits, a 35% reduction from 2023.
• Provincial and territorial caps have been established, leading to more substantial declines in provinces experiencing unsustainable growth in the international student population.
• Renewals of existing study permits remain unaffected, and those pursuing master’s and doctoral degrees, as well as elementary and secondary education, are exempt from the cap.
• To enforce the cap, provinces or territories are now required to provide attestation letters for each study permit application submitted to Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

Cost-of-Living Requirement and Work Limits:

Effective from January 1, 2024,

Effective from May 1, 2024, international students will only be allowed to working a maximum of 20 hours per week while classes are in session.

These adjustments aim to uphold the integrity of the international student system, support sustainable population growth, and ensure a balanced approach for both students and Canadian communities.

Impact of Recent Policy Changes on International Students:

The recent adjustments to Canada’s study visa policies carry significant implications for international students aspiring for permanent residency (PR). Let’s explore their impact:

Commencing January 1, 2024, applicants for Canadian study permits must demonstrate possession of at least $20,000 CAD in their bank accounts, previously $10,000 requirement. This modification aims to ensure international students are adequately equipped financially for life in Canada. Although generally advantageous, the influence of this change may fluctuate based on individual circumstances.

Learning institutions are now tasked with providing suitable accommodation, to international students. Institutions are urged to admit only the number of students they can support duly.

The implementation of an intake cap on study permits, resulting in a 35% decrease from 2023, could lead to more rigorous admission processes. To secure admission to Canadian institutions, students must be adequately prepared, fulfill eligibility requirements, and showcase their value. As the availability of study permits decreases, students may need to explore alternative avenues or consider provinces with less stringent quotas.

In summary, while competition may escalate, students can navigate these challenges by staying well-informed, leveraging available resources, and adapting to the evolving policies.

Potential Benefits of Recent Changes to Canada’s Study Visa Policies:

The recent revisions to Canada’s study visa policies offer several potential benefits as well:

• There is now a heightened focus on the responsibilities of learning institutions, ensuring students receive improved support and services.
• Institutions are held accountable for providing quality housing and addressing student needs, fostering a positive student experience and overall satisfaction.
• By controlling the number of new study permits, Canada can strike a balance between welcoming international students and ensuring resources remain adequate, benefiting both students and Canadian communities.
• A higher cost-of-living requirement ensures students are financially prepared for their stay, while balanced work limits during studies provide equitable opportunities for all students.
• Canadian work experience gained through the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) enhances eligibility for PR, allowing students to leverage Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), and Quebec’s immigration pathways.
• These changes position international students as competitive candidates in the Canadian labor market, making PR pathways more accessible for those who demonstrate their value during studies.

In summary, these policy adjustments aim to foster a supportive environment for international students, safeguard their interests, and provide clear pathways to permanent residency in Canada.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, obtaining permanent residency (PR) in Canada marks a significant milestone for international students aspiring to establish themselves in this vibrant and opportunity-filled nation. Let’s recap the key takeaways:

Why PR Matters:

• PR status offers stability, security, and access to social benefits, laying the foundation for a prosperous future.
• It serves as a gateway to Canadian citizenship and facilitates family reunification, fostering a sense of belonging.
• Employers value PR holders for their long-term commitment, enhancing career prospects and opportunities.

Pathways to PR:

• Explore various pathways such as Express Entry, Canadian Experience Class (CEC), and Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) tailored to meet different needs and qualifications.
• Capitalize on Canadian work experience gained through the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) to enhance eligibility for PR programs.

Start Early and Stay Informed:

• Begin your journey toward PR by conducting thorough research on immigration options while still pursuing your studies.
• Stay abreast of policy changes and program updates to adapt your strategy accordingly.

The path to PR in Canada begins with informed decisions and proactive steps. As you embark on this journey in 2024, Canada eagerly awaits your arrival, ready to embrace you as a valued permanent resident!