Studying in Canada means more than world-class academia; it means gaining access to permanent residency for international students. Canada is the destination of choice for ambitious individuals seeking a quality education and an authentic cosmopolitan experience, thanks to its open immigration policies, multicultural society, and outstanding post-graduation work opportunities, which will help them build a prosperous future.
This blog discusses post-graduation immigration options available to international students in Canada and how Swift Immigration Solutions Inc. can facilitate the process.
Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWP): Applying for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is a common first step after completion of your studies. The open work permit enables graduates from participating designated learning institutions (DLIs) who have completed an eligible program of studies at their institution to work in Canada.
Key Facts:
- The length of the PGWP depends on the length of your program, which can be up to 3 years.
- PGWP work experiences can be applied to permanent residency applications.
- You’ll need to apply within 180 days of receiving the final grade.
We are with you every step of the way to ensure you follow all details correctly when applying to Swift Immigration Solutions Inc.
Canadian Experience Class (CEC): Once you have one year (or more) of skilled Canadian work experience with your Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), you may qualify to apply for permanent residency through the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) in the Express Entry system.
Why CEC is popular:
- No need for a job offer.
- Shorter processing times (could take as little as 6 months).
- Additional Express Entry points for Canadian education and work experience.
Our advisors can tailor and optimize your profile to make it competitive for an ITA through the Express Entry system.
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs): There are PNPs for international graduates who are up for nomination in various provinces in Canada.
Popular PNP streams include:
- Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP)- International Student Stream
- British Columbia PNP – International Post-Graduate Category
- Manitoba International Education Stream (EST)
These typically have lower CRS requirements and aim to retain talent within the province. Swift Immigration Solutions Inc. can help you determine which Provincial Nominee Program (PNP ) would best suit your background and goals.
Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP): Graduates who studied in an Atlantic province – specifically Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, or Newfoundland and Labrador – can apply through the Atlantic Immigration Program. This employer-based program aims to facilitate permanent residence for skilled workers and international graduates.
Eligibility Highlights:
- Must have a job offer from a qualified employer.
- Completion of a minimum of 2 years of post-secondary schooling in this domain.
Our immigration professionals guide you through job offer requirements and program eligibility.
Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP): For smaller communities, the RNIP offers a pathway to permanent residence for international graduates who commit to settling and working in participating rural areas.
Ideal for:
- Recent graduates who are willing to work in a sparsely populated region.
- Those who studied in an eligible institution within an RNIP community.
Swift Immigration Solutions Inc. can assist you with the regional aspects and obtain community recommendations.
Start-Up Visa or Entrepreneur Pathways: International graduates with entrepreneurial plans may have access to programs such as the Start-Up Visa or provincial entrepreneur streams in Canada. These initiatives require a viable business concept, sponsorship from a specific organization, and a clear plan to contribute to the Canadian economy.
Our team can assist you with business plans, applications, and connecting with designated organizations.
Let Swift Immigration Solutions Be Your Guide
It’s a long road from international student to Canadian permanent resident — but you don’t have to go it alone. At Swift Immigration Solutions Inc., we are experts in helping graduates like you transform their academic accomplishments into Permanent Residency.
Whether you are applying for a PGWP, are interested in Express Entry, or need to navigate your way through a PNP, you can trust that our immigration experts will simplify this process for you, improving your odds of success.
Get in touch with us today to book an appointment and take one step closer to your future in Canada.