Study Permits

Canada attracts international students not only for its world-class education system at comparatively affordable costs but also due to a potential reward to work and settle in Canada permanently. 

Canadian study permit holders can count on several factors that enhance the success rate of their Canadian immigration application. These factors include studies in Canada, increased points for younger age, language proficiency and , in may cases, Canadian work experience. 

Full-time International students enrolled in a Designated Learning Institute (DLI) in Canada are allowed to work on campus or off-campus part-time (20 hours per week) while attending classes and full-time during scheduled breaks such as summer or winter holidays and spring break. These students do not need a work permit to work. 

International study permits holders who graduate from a DLI from a program that is at least 8-month long may be eligible to apply for a Post Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). This is an open work permit meaning that allows you to work for any Canadian employer. The work experience gained during the duration of the PGWP in the NOC (National Occupational Classification) O, A or B for 1 year qualifies you to apply for permanent residence under the Canadian Experience Class. 

International students, especially those with a degree from a Canadian university and who have foreign work experience, can also apply either under Foreign Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) or through several provincial programs leading to permanent resident.

Under Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP), every Canadian province and territory has its own criteria of selection for international students and other applicants based on their demographics and economic needs. Many provinces require the international student to graduate from an educational institution in the province where are they are seeking nomination while other provinces accept graduates from other provinces. 

In short, international students who have studied in Canada in a program of at least 2 years, can avail themselves of several permanent residence options at federal and provincial levels.