It's been a long time since international students have looked to Canada for more than quality education. The country's diverse culture, world-renowned universities, and opportunities to gain practical work experience make it an appealing destination.
Earning a degree in Canada can significantly increase your chances of securing permanent residence. Graduates from Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) receive extra points in the Express Entry system, giving them a competitive advantage and improving their likelihood of being invited to apply for PR.
While studying in Canada is a significant step, it's important to note that it doesn't guarantee permanent residency. Canada does offer various pathways for international graduates to work and stay. However, other factors such as qualifications, skills, and occupation are also crucial in this process.
Recently, Canada has updated its immigration policies to align with its labour market needs. With an increasingly competitive pool of candidates, jumping from a study permit to permanent residency has become more challenging.
If you want to settle in Canada, here are a few strategies to help you maximize your points and improve your chances of securing PR.
Let us explore the above-mentioned strategies in detail.
Selecting a study program aligned with Canada's in-demand jobs can increase your chances of obtaining PR. In 2023, Canada introduced category-specific Express Entry draws focusing on key sectors such as:
By choosing a program in one of these fields, such as healthcare or STEM (e.g., engineering, data science, web development), you will have better opportunities in both the job market and the Express Entry system. Remember, while these fields improve your chances, categories may change, and permanent residency is not guaranteed.
The official languages of Canada are English and French. Proficiency in these languages can boost your CRS score. Being bilingual adds extra points to your profile. This makes you more competitive in the Express Entry system.
If your initial scores were below the benchmark level, you may retake English tests like IELTS or CELPIP to maximize your points.
Additionally, learning French can give you an edge, especially with the recent focus on French-language proficiency draws. Scoring a seven or higher on all four abilities of the Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadien (NCLC) can add valuable points to your profile, with opportunities expected to grow in 2024 and beyond. Mastering both languages is an advantage for permanent residency.
Obtaining an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) can enhance one's chances of securing permanent residency. An ECA verifies and evaluates international academic credentials, such as degrees and diplomas, and provides their Canadian equivalent.
ECA allows candidates to claim valuable CRS scores for education completed in foreign destination outside Canada. Depending on factors like the type of credential and whether they have a spouse, candidates can gain up to 150 additional CRS points by having their highest international credential assessed. For those with international education, an ECA is essential to claim these points.
The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) is the most popular pathway for skilled workers to immigrate to Canada. Almost every province and territory, except for Nunavut and Quebec, uses the PNP to attract qualified individuals worldwide to strengthen their economies.
If an international student's CRS score is insufficient or does not qualify for a category-based draw, they can explore provincial nomination options.
There are two ways to apply through a PNP:
Canadian immigration policies may change according to the labour market and economic demands. As an aspiring international student, you must be vigilant about the latest immigration rules and regulations.
For instance, in 2023, the minimum required funds for international students, apart from the Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC), were CAD 10,000 per year. But starting January 1, 2024, this amount has increased significantly to CAD 20,635 per year, excluding the first year's tuition fees. So, keeping up with these changes is crucial for effectively planning your future.
In conclusion, international students can secure Canadian PR by planning and implementing the strategies mentioned above. By choosing programs that align with in-demand job sectors, improving language skills, obtaining an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA), and exploring Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), students can enhance their CRS scores thereby increasing their chances of obtaining Canadian PR.
However, it's essential to stay updated on immigration policy changes, as these can impact pathways to residency. With careful planning and commitment, international students can successfully navigate the process and hold permanent residency status in Canada.
At ImmiLaw Global, we provide expert guidance under the supervision of an experienced immigration lawyer. Our team will ensure that international students receive the best possible support in pursuing Canadian immigration. With our comprehensive services, students can effectively maximize their opportunities and improve their chances of successfully securing permanent residency in Canada.
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