There are multiple ways to get permanent residence in Canada after you complete your studies in a designated learning institution and a designated program. In my other books, I have explained in detail how the Canadian immigration system works and what programs you may be eligible to apply for. My books are: Unlock Canada Immigration (Ultimate Guide) and Unlock Canada Immigration (All Permanent Residence Programs). However, I will provide a summary of all the permanent residence programs for your review at the following link: https://bit.ly/3K8Z1bE

Generally, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residence through one of the following pathways.

1. Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP): International students who have graduated from a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada can apply for a PGWP, which allows them to work in Canada for up to three years after graduation. In order to be eligible, students must have completed a program of at least eight months in length and must have completed their studies within the last 180 days.
2. Express Entry: This is a federal program that allows skilled workers to immigrate to Canada through one of three programs: the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, and Canadian Experience Class. International students who have completed a program of at least two years and have gained Canadian work experience may be eligible to apply through this program. This program uses a points-based system to rank candidates based on factors such as education, work experience, language proficiency, and other factors. Majority of the international students try to qualify under the Canadian Experience Class.

Canadian Experience Class (CEC): International students who have graduated from a DLI in Canada and have at least one year of work experience in a skilled occupation may be eligible to apply for permanent residence through the CEC. This program is designed to help international students and temporary foreign workers transition to permanent residence.

• Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP): Some provinces in Canada have their own PNP programs, which allow them to nominate individuals for permanent residence based on specific criteria such as job offers, education and work experience, and other factors. International students who have graduated from a DLI in Canada and have a job offer from a Canadian employer in that province may be eligible to apply for permanent residence through a PNP. Some provinces also have entrepreneurship/investor programs for international students.
• Family Class Sponsorship: International students who are married or have a common-law partner who is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, may be eligible to apply for permanent residence through family class sponsorship. This process allows the Canadian partner to sponsor their spouse or partner for permanent residence.
• Refugee Status: International students who are facing persecution or danger in their home country may be eligible to apply for refugee status in Canada. This process is usually done through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and it’s a legal process.

Accompanying family members

International students can bring their families (spouse and dependent children) while studying in Canada. Once in Canada, the spouse is eligible to obtain an open work permit and work full-time. Dependent children (under the age of 22) would be allowed to stay in Canada for the same duration as their parents’ visas. Dependent children under the age of 18 years are also eligible to study in Canadian schools without the need for study permits.

Tip: Some international students are worried if they include their family members in their initial study permit application, their permit may be rejected. This is a valid concern, therefore, if you suspect that your study permit application may be rejected if you include your spouse and dependent children, then do not include them. Once your individual study permit is approved and you land in Canada, then you can apply for them and invite them to join you in Canada. This way, even if their applications are rejected, your application is not impacted and you can still continue studying and then working in Canada. Once you get a good financial standing in Canada, then you can apply again, and hopefully, your family application will be accepted too.

How to network as a student inexpensively?

In order to fully utilize your presence in Canada, you need to spread your net and know not only international students but also other permanent residents and Canadian citizens. If you are an international student with a strict budget, you will need to take certain steps in order to be able to network cheaply without spending too much money. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Look for networking events on campus or in the community that are specifically targeted to students. Many universities and colleges host career fairs, networking events and workshops that are free or inexpensive for students to attend.
2. Joining student organizations related to your field of study can be a great way to connect with other students who share your interests and make valuable connections with professionals in your field.
3. Look for online resources such as LinkedIn, and other professional networking websites, to connect with other students and professionals in your field.
4. Participate in internships or co-op programs: Internships and co-op programs are an excellent way to gain experience and make valuable connections in your field.
5. Look for volunteer opportunities in your field or industry. Not only will you gain valuable experience, but you will also have the chance to meet and network with other professionals in your field.
6. Reach out to family and friends who may have connections in your field of interest or industry. They may be able to introduce you to people who can help you find a job or get your foot in the door.
7. Network with your classmates or colleagues, if you are in school or working.
8. Networking takes time and effort, but it’s an important part of building a professional network. By being persistent and creative, you can find ways to meet new people and build valuable connections, even with limited resources.