If you’re interested in studying in Canada, working, and eventually immigrating, here are the steps you need to follow:
Step 1 – Select a program: Start by conducting research to find the education program you want to pursue in Canada.
Step 2 – Apply to a Canadian designated learning institution (DLI): Once you’ve decided on the education program, submit your application to the Canadian designated learning institution (DLI) of your choice.
Step 3 – Apply for a study permit: Once you receive a letter of acceptance from the DLI, you’ll need to apply for a study permit from the Government of Canada. A study permit is required for most people to legally remain in Canada as a student. You can seek assistance from the Cohen Immigration Law firm to help you with the application process.
Step 4 (Optional) – Explore your immigration options: After completing your studies, you can work with Cohen Immigration Law to explore your immigration options. They can assist you in gaining more professional work experience in Canada and guide you through the process of pursuing permanent residence.
Benefits of Studying in Canada:
Studying in Canada offers several advantages, including:
High quality of education: Canadian schools provide a high standard of education.
Work opportunities: International students in Canada have the opportunity to work during and after their studies, and this can help them transition to permanent residence.
Language options: Canada offers opportunities to study in English and/or French, which can enhance language skills.
Safety and security: Canada is known for its safe and secure environment.
Multicultural society: Canada is a multicultural country that welcomes immigrants and international students from around the world.
Affordability: Compared to other popular international student destinations, Canada is considered affordable. Additionally, the weaker Canadian dollar compared to major currencies like USD, GBP, and EUR can be advantageous.
About Canada’s Universities and Colleges:
Canada has over 1,500 universities, colleges, and other educational institutions authorized by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to welcome international students. These institutions are known as designated learning institutions (DLIs). It’s important to verify the authorized status of the university, college, or institution you wish to enroll in by visiting the Canadian government’s official website.
Ontario and Quebec host the most number of DLIs in Canada, with nearly 1,000 combined. With a wide range of DLIs across the country, you can find educational programs that meet your needs. Canadian universities offer high-quality education, while community colleges focus on practical training for quick integration into the job market.
Study Pathways to Permanent Residence (PR):
International students who complete post-secondary education in Canada have various pathways to extend their stay and transition to permanent residence:
Express Entry: Submitting an Express Entry profile is one of the prominent ways to pursue permanent residence. Express Entry is the main system through which Canada manages economic class immigration applications. International students with Canadian education and work experience may be well-placed to be eligible for the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) program.
Provincial Nominee Program (PNP): Provincial Nominee Programs allow provinces and territories in Canada to nominate immigration candidates who meet their local economic needs. Many PNP streams reward former international students or are specifically dedicated to them.
Quebec Experience Program: Quebec operates its own immigration system separate from the federal government. The province encourages former international students to transition to permanent residence through programs like the Quebec Experience Program.
Other Federal Programs: The federal government operates additional economic class immigration programs that offer special streams for international students or exemptions from Canadian work experience requirements. Examples include the Atlantic Immigration Program and the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot.
It’s advisable to seek professional assistance from immigration law firms like Cohen Immigration Law to navigate the immigration process effectively.
Please note that this information is based on general knowledge and may be subject to changes in immigration policies. It’s important to consult with qualified professionals and refer to the official Canadian government websites for the most up-to-date information.