Canada PR eligibility and requirements for International Students

You know what the main problem is for the majority of students who are planning to pursue a bachelor’s or master’s degree abroad? 

They often fail to thoroughly research before applying. 

More than 90% of students rely on agents or consultants. They simply follow whatever advice they receive, and as a result, their ultimate goal of settling down in countries like Canada becomes less achievable. 

That’s why research is important. 

This blog, Canada PR requirements for International Students – aims to outline the eligibility criteria for Canada PR as an International student and the requirements you must fulfill before applying for PR in Canada.

So, let’s get started!

Why is everyone insane for Canada?

Canada has always been a top priority list for international students because of its favorable immigration policies, opportunities for post study work visas and clear pathways to permanent residency. 

Honestly, these are the main reasons why Canada has become such a popular study destination and a dream country for many students like you and me worldwide.

That’s why thousands of students choose Canada each year, and the numbers keep growing.

But remember, competition in the job market also rises, and the process for permanent residency can be more challenging than before. So it’s important to you to be well-prepared before arriving in Canada.

Canada PR eligibility for International Students

1. Completion of studies

Successfully completing a full-time program of study from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada is a must if you’re planning to apply for Permanent Residency in Canada. 

That’s why where you are going to study is the most important factor for PR eligibility. 

DLI institutes are authorized by the Canadian government to accept international students. If you want to know which institutes are DLIs in Canada, you can check on the IRCC website.

2. Work experience

Suppose, You have lived in Canada for 5 years, during which you were on a study visa for 2 years for your chosen program and on a post-study work visa for 3 years. 

If you have full time work experience in a relevant field of study in the last 12 months of your 3-year stay, you are eligible to apply for PR. 

However, 

You must have valid work experience for the past 12 consecutive months before applying for PR.

Also Read: Best Courses in Canada to get PR 2024

Canada PR requirements for International Students

General requirements for Canada PR:

1. Education Credentials Assessment (ECA)
2. Language Proficiency Tests
3. Express Entry System
4. Proof of Funds
5. Medical Examinations and Security Clearances
6. Job Offer or Provincial Nomination

1. Education Credentials Assessment (ECA)

When you apply for Canada PR, you’ll need an Education Credentials Assessment from an authorized organization approved by the Canadian government.

ECA compares your home country’s education credentials to the Canadian education system to verify their equivalence to a Canadian diploma, degree, or certificate.

2. Language Proficiency Tests

You must demonstrate proficiency in English or French through standardized test results, such as IELTS (International English Language Testing System) for English or TEF (Test d’Évaluation de Français) for French.

Therefore, scoring well in these tests is important as it will increase your CRS score and ultimately improve your prospects for Canada PR.

3. Express Entry System

The Express Entry system in Canada opens doors for skilled immigrants to secure Canada PR. International students can apply to programs like the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), Canadian Experience Class (CEC) or Provincial Nominee Programs under Express Entry.

As an international student, all you have to do is create a profile in Express Entry System and focus on improving your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score to increase the chances of receiving an invitation to apply (ITA) for Canada PR.

4. Proof of Funds

Proof of funds is not mandatory for all Express Entry programs, such as the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) and Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).

However, 

When applying to programs such as the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) and the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) under the Express Entry system, it is required to showcase the ability to financially support yourself and any dependents or family members who arrive in Canada

5. Medical Examinations and Security Clearances

Medical Examinations and Security Clearance both are mandatory for you or if any dependent with you applying for Canada PR. To ensure the health and safety of Canadian citizens and residents.

You can undergo a medical examination by a panel physician approved by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). You may also be required to provide fingerprints and biometrics.

6. Job Offer or Provincial Nomination

If you have a valid job offer from a Canadian employer or provincial nomination it can help to increase your chances of getting Canada PR. 

Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) help international students to get invited by certain provinces, making it easier for them to move to Canada.

Program-Specific Requirements:

1. Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

2. Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)

3. Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)

Each province has unique requirements are as follow:

4. Atlantic Immigration Pilot (AIP)

Please note: These are the program-specific requirements for applying for PR in Canada. You must also consider the general requirements for the Canada PR application process.

Benefits of Having Canadian PR 

• Right to reside, work, and study anywhere in Canada
• Access to public health and social services
• Eligibility to apply for Canadian citizenship after fulfilling residency criteria
• Protection under Canadian law and the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms
• Ability to sponsor family members for Canadian permanent residency
• Having a Canadian passport allows you to travel to numerous countries without a visa
• Free education for your child
• Eligible for government benefits and programs, such as Employment Insurance (EI) and the Canada Pension Plan

FAQ: Best Course in Canada to get PR