How to get PR in Canada after Study – 2024

If you’re an International student or planning to apply for study in Canada, your ultimate goal is to get PR after successfully completing study in Canada. 

Right?

If your answer is Yes, then definitely you have thought in your mind – How to get PR in Canada after study? 

Even, I had the same thoughts when I was applying to Canada. 

• Should I get PR in Canada while studying? 
• What are the easiest ways to get PR in Canada? 
• How do students get PR in Canada? 
• What are the eligibility criteria and requirements of getting PR in Canada?

As an International Student myself in Canada. I’ll share my experience and thoroughly researched insights on How to get PR in Canada after study? 

So, let’s get started!

How to get PR in Canada after Study

As an International Student in Canada, you have a wider chance to apply for Permanent Residency (PR) programs compared to those who apply from outside Canada.

Before applying for Canada PR, you need to know the eligibility criteria and requirements for international students.

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. It can be one year, two years or any short term program. 

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

You must have valid work experience from the past 12 consecutive months before applying for PR. It can vary if you’re applying to Provincial nominee Programs. 

Canada PR requirements for International Students

General requirements for Canada PR:

• Education Credentials Assessment (ECA) from WES 
• Language Proficiency Tests (IELTS: Overall 7.5 or above) or French 
• Express Entry System 
• Proof of Funds 
• Medical Examinations and Security Clearances
• Job Offer or Provincial Nomination
• Valid Passport
• Work Experience (last 12 months)

Program-Specific Requirements:

If you’re an international student in Canada, you can apply for these programs after completing your study. 

These programs are the easiest ways to get PR in Canada. You can apply according to eligibility and requirements into the Express Entry System. 

1. Canadian Experience Class (CEC):

This program is specifically designed for skilled workers with recent Canadian work experience. It’s run under the Express Entry Immigration System and also considers the most efficient ways to get permanent residency in Canada. 

Which uses a point-based system to rank applicants.

Eligibility Criteria:

• You have at least 12 months of continuous, full-time work experience in Canada within the past 3 years, or an equivalent amount in part-time work.
• Valid work experience in occupation classified by National Occupational Classification (NOC).
• Age, Language Proficiency and Level of Education

2. Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP):

In the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Candidates’ profile is evaluated and ranked using a points-based Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). 

Eligibility Criteria: 

• The candidate must have worked for a minimum of 12 months in any country
• The minimum eligibility level is 67 points out of 100
• Minimum requirements for education, language proficiency

Anyone can apply to qualify under this program you don’t need prior Canadian work experience.

3. Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs):

These programs are operated by the individual provinces and territories in Canada. Each province has its own unique streams and requirements to their specific labor market needs.

After being nominated by a province your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply for PR through Express Entry significantly increase.

4. Quebec Experience Class (QEC):

Quebec Experience Class is similar to the CEC program but it applies specifically to the province of Quebec.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Work experience in Quebec 
• Language proficiency requirements in French

5. Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP):

This program is designed to attract skilled workers and international graduates to the four Atlantic provinces: 

• Nova Scotia
• New Brunswick
• Prince Edward Island 
• Newfoundland and Labrador

Eligibility Criteria:

• At least two years of full-time studies leading to a degree, diploma, or certificate
• Graduation within 24 months of applying
• Living in an Atlantic province for at least 16 months in the two years before graduation

If you’re an individual who is planning to apply for Canadian Permanent Residency from outside of Canada, you must consider the Federal Skilled Worker Program or Provincial Nominee Programs. 

For this, you need to submit an application to Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Make sure that before you apply to process for PR in Canada, you consult with an Immigration Lawyer or consultant for more accurate information on IRCC policies and Express Entry System.

Also Read: Canada PR eligibility and requirements for International Students

Process for PR in Canada

Step by Step application process for PR in Canada are as follow:

1. Create Online Account
2. Complete the Application Form
3. Submit the Supporting Documents 
4. Pay Application Fee
5. Biometric Information
6. Attend Interview (if require)
7. Wait for application processing 
8. Receive Decision

1. Create an Online Account: Create an online account on the IRCC website to start the application process. You can submit your online PR applications through the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website. 

2. Complete the Application Form: Complete the online PR application form and other form which are required to submit in online application including, 

• Generic application form (IMM 0008), 
• Schedule A – Background/Declaration Form (IMM 5669), 
• Family Information Form (IMM 5406), 
• Use of Representative (IMM 5476), if Applicable. 

3. Submit Supporting Documents: Upload all the required documents online with specific format and it must be clear, and legitimate.

4. Pay Application Fees: After completing the online PR application form, you need to pay the application fees online with a valid payment method.

As of March 4, 2024

• Processing Fee: $1,365 CAD 
• Spouse or Partner: $1,365 CAD (if applicable)
• Dependent Child (under 18): $230 CAD (if applicable)

Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF): $515 CAD fee is payable when your PR application is approved, before you can officially become a permanent resident.

Additional Fees includes: 

• Biometrics Fee: $85 CAD per person
• Medical Exam Fee: $140 to $160 CAD per person 
• Police Certificates: $20 to $100 depending on the country

5. Biometric Information: After submitting the online PR application, you’ll receive an email or instructions within your application account message box to visit a service provider near you. 

These are the two service providers which are authorized by Canadian government:

• Visa Application Centers (VACs)
• Service Canada Centers (SCCs)

6. Attend Interviews (if necessary): In some cases, you might be asked to attend interviews as part of the PR application process. These interviews may be conducted in-person or online.

7. Wait for Application Processing: Once you submit the PR application, it will be reviewed by immigration authorities. The wait time varies depending on factors such as the immigration program, the volume of applications, and the completeness of your application.

8. Receive Decision: Once your application is reviewed by the Authorities and decisions are made. If approved, you will be issued a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) document and a permanent resident visa.

9. Complete Landing Procedures: If you are outside Canada when your PR application is approved, you will need to complete landing procedures at a Canadian port of entry.

Tips for a Successful PR Application

To increase the chances of a successful PR application, international students should:

• Ensure that all essential documentation is accurate and up to date.
• Consult with immigration advisers or lawyers if necessary.
• Prepare for language proficiency tests and physical examinations in advance.
• Maintain legal status in Canada during the application process.
• Follow the guidelines attentively and respond quickly to requests from immigration authorities.

Wrapping Up!

Having permanent residency in Canada is the dream of the majority of students around the world. 

Canada offers stability, security, social benefits, enhances your career, and has PR friendly immigration policies that attracts a number of applicants each year.

That’s why competition increases each year for PR in Canada, and it is important for you to submit the application in the right way and plan out before completing your temporary visa in Canada. 

Ensure you prepare in advance for all documents and check your eligibility for different pathway programs.

In this Blog, How to get PR in Canada after study – We cover everything all you need to know for Processing for PR in Canada. 

All the best for getting PR in Advance.

FAQs: How to get PR in Canada after Study