Canada offers one of the most structured and welcoming immigration pathways for international students. If you’re planning to study in Canada and eventually become a permanent resident, you’re not alone—thousands successfully transition from student to PR every year. This guide explains how to use the study in Canada to PR route, covering key stages like the Canada visa 2025 process, graduation, work experience, and final permanent residency application.
Step 1: Apply for a Canadian Study Permit
The journey begins with gaining admission to a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) and applying for a study permit Canada.
- Receive a Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from a DLI
- Apply for a study permit online through the IRCC portal
- Provide proof of funds, tuition fee payment, and a clean background
- Pay the study permit application fee (CAD 150)
Step 2: Study in Canada
During your studies, you’re allowed to work part-time (up to 20 hours/week during academic sessions) and full-time during scheduled breaks. Completing your program makes you eligible for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP).
Step 3: Apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
- PGWP is open to students who completed programs at eligible DLIs
- It allows you to work in Canada for up to 3 years
- No job offer is required to apply
This period is essential for gaining the Canadian work experience required to transition from international student PR Canada.
Step 4: Gain Canadian Work Experience
Most PR pathways for former international students require full-time, skilled work experience in Canada. Eligible job categories fall under TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 of the National Occupation Classification (NOC).
Step 5: Choose a PR Pathway
There are several immigration programs that allow students to apply for PR:
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC): Express Entry stream for candidates with at least 1 year of skilled Canadian work experience
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP): Apply for nomination from a province where you studied or worked
- Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP): For graduates who studied in Atlantic Canada
- Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP): For graduates who studied in participating rural communities
Step 6: Take a Language Test
To apply for PR, you must prove language proficiency in English or French:
- IELTS General Training for English (CLB 7 or higher recommended)
- TEF Canada for French
Step 7: Create an Express Entry Profile (if applicable)
You’ll be given a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score based on your:
- Age
- Education (including Canadian credentials)
- Language proficiency
- Canadian and foreign work experience
- Provincial nomination (if applicable)
High scores improve your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
Step 8: Submit Your PR Application
- Apply through IRCC after receiving an ITA
- Include all required documents: ECA, language test, proof of experience
- Pay the application fees (approx. CAD 1,365 per adult)
Costs to Expect
- Tuition Canada (average): CAD 15,000 – 30,000 per year
- Study permit fee: CAD 150
- PGWP fee: CAD 255
- PR application: CAD 1,365
- Language tests: CAD 300
- Optional student visa lawyer: CAD 1,000 – 3,000
You may also need to pay for biometrics, medical exams, and police certificates.
Benefits of PR for Former International Students
- Live and work anywhere in Canada
- Access to healthcare and public services
- Sponsor family members
- Pathway to citizenship after 3 years
Conclusion
The education immigration pathway is one of the most reliable ways to gain permanent residency in Canada. From applying for a study permit to working post-graduation and eventually applying for PR, international students have a clear route to long-term immigration. By understanding the process, meeting eligibility criteria, and planning ahead, you can build a successful life in Canada beyond your studies.