In a significant shift, Canada has announced changes to its immigration policies, impacting international students. As of now, international students can no longer convert their study permits to permanent residency.
This means that once their study visas expire, they will need to return to their home countries.
Alternative Pathways to Permanent Residency
Although the direct conversion pathway is closed, international students can still explore other options to become permanent residents in Canada. Some of these alternatives include:
- Canadian Experience Class: This program requires at least 12 months of continuous, full-time, skilled work experience in Canada within the previous three years.
- Federal Skilled Worker Program: This program doesn’t require Canadian work experience but assesses applicants based on a points-based Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score.
- Provincial Nominee Programs: Each province operates its own immigration programs, giving preference to applicants with connections to the province, such as previous studies or work experience.
- Quebec Immigration Options: Quebec’s immigration programs, like the Quebec Experience Program (PEQ) and Quebec Skilled Worker (QSW), offer pathways for international students who have completed their studies in Quebec.
- Post-Graduation Work Permits: These permits allow international students to remain in Canada after their studies and work with any employer, potentially leading to permanent residency through other programs.
Source: Vanguard
