Visa Options for International Students

Visa Options for International Students Looking to Obtain Canadian Education

In the Canadian context, an international student is someone who intends to attend a school or higher educational institution at any level and plans to study for longer than six months.

International graduates have several pathways to study, work, and eventually settle in Canada:

Come temporarily to study in Canada.
Work temporarily after graduation by obtaining a post-graduation work permit.
Immigrate through one of the federal or provincial programs for international graduates.

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Study Permit

Foreign nationals seeking prestigious Canadian education at primary, secondary, or higher educational institutions require authorization to study in Canada. Searching for and enrolling in educational institutions is a prerequisite for applying for a Canadian study permit. Elementary and secondary school students may deal with provincial school boards and schools, while higher education students can communicate directly with their chosen colleges and universities.

Depending on the level of study and the length of the program, students may enjoy additional privileges associated with their study permit. These can include the ability to work on or off campus, the duration of the post-graduation work permit they can receive after completing their program, or the ability to bring an accompanying spouse or partner to work in Canada while the principal applicant is studying.

Dependent children who accompany their parents working in Canada may obtain a study permit in a more streamlined manner, depending on their age and the timing of their application.

Learn more about applying for a Canadian study permit.

Post-Graduation Work Permit

International students in Canada who successfully completed eligible study program at eligible educational institution can work for any employer for some time after graduation. They will need to apply and obtain an open work permit known as post-graduation work permit, the length of which depends on the level and duration of study program.

After studying and working in Canada, foreign nationals may want to stay permanently and settle in the country. Canadian education and work experience facilitate immigration under one of the programs.

Learn more about post-graduation work permit.

Permanent Resident Visa through Canada’s Federal or Provincial Programs for International Students

International graduates who have obtained at least one year of Canadian experience may consider one of the three federal immigration programs. Each Canadian province has its own streams for international students, which may or may not require work experience. Provincial streams for international students usually require them to have a job offer from an employer in the province or a viable business but may also exempt that requirement if they possess a Canadian master’s or doctoral degree.

While the selection criteria often boil down to the same considerations - level of education, work experience, age, and language ability - the qualifying score under the federal programs is typically higher. Both federal and provincial programs have targeted criteria that favor graduates with education and work experience in in-demand occupations.

Thus, immigration programs for international students include:

Canadian Experience Class Program
Federal Skilled Worker Program
Federal Skilled Trades Program
Provincial pathways for international graduates in a specific province

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FAQ

What is a Study Permit, and who needs one?

A Study Permit is a document issued by the Canadian government allowing foreign nationals to study at designated learning institutions in Canada. It is required for international students planning to attend any educational level in Canada for longer than six months.

How can international students work in Canada after graduation?

International students can work in Canada after completing their studies by obtaining a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). This permit allows graduates to work for any employer and the length of the permit depends on the duration of their study program.

What options do international graduates have to become permanent residents in Canada?

International graduates have several pathways to permanent residency, including the Canadian Experience Class, Federal Skilled Worker Program, and Federal Skilled Trades Program. Additionally, many Canadian provinces offer specific streams for international graduates that may require a job offer or business establishment but might waive these requirements for those with a Canadian master's or doctoral degree.

Do all international students qualify for a Post-Graduation Work Permit?

Not all international students qualify; eligibility for a PGWP depends on completing a study program at an eligible institution that meets required durations. Students should verify that their program and institution meet the necessary criteria before applying.

Can dependent children of international students studying in Canada also receive study permits?

Yes, dependent children accompanying international students in Canada can obtain study permits. The process is often more streamlined, depending on the children's age and the timing of the application.