Many international students fall in love with Canada and dream of calling it home permanently. The good news? Canada offers a clear path from student to permanent resident (PR)—and thousands make the transition every year.

In this guide, we’ll break down the steps to go from a study permit to permanent residency in Canada, what programs are available, and how to improve your chances in 2025.

Step 1: Graduate from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)

To become eligible for PR later, you must first:

• Attend a recognized Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
• Complete a full-time program (minimum 8 months)
• Graduate with a diploma, certificate, or degree

Pro Tip: Choose a program that is eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)—not all are!

Step 2: Apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

The PGWP allows you to work in Canada for up to 3 years after graduation.

• You must apply within 180 days of getting your final transcript
• Your PGWP length depends on your program length (e.g., 2-year program = 3-year PGWP)
• No job offer is required to apply

Working during your PGWP period helps you gain Canadian work experience, which is crucial for PR pathways.

Step 3: Gain Canadian Work Experience

Now that you have a PGWP, focus on:

• Full-time skilled work (NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3)
• At least 1 year (1,560 hours) of work experience

This experience can make you eligible for programs like:

• Canadian Experience Class (CEC) – Part of Express Entry
• Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
• Atlantic Immigration Program (if you studied in Eastern Canada)

Step 4: Apply for PR Through One of These Programs

Here are the most common pathways from student to PR:

1. Canadian Experience Class (CEC) – via Express Entry

• Requires 1 year of Canadian skilled work experience
• No job offer or employer sponsorship needed
• Language test (IELTS/CELPIP) required
• Fast processing (as little as 6 months)

2. Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)

• Each province has its own immigration streams
• Often prioritize graduates with job offers in the province
• Can boost your Express Entry profile with 600 additional CRS points

3. Quebec Experience Program (PEQ)

• For graduates of Quebec schools
• Must meet French language requirements

4. Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP)

• For those who studied and now work in a smaller Canadian community

Bonus Tip: Boost Your CRS Score

If you’re applying through Express Entry, your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score determines your chances of getting an Invitation to Apply (ITA). To boost your score:

• Improve your IELTS or CELPIP score
• Gain more work experience
• Complete a second degree or diploma
• Secure a job offer (optional, but helps)
• Get provincial nomination (worth 600 points!)

Documents You’ll Need for PR

• Passport
• Language test results (IELTS or CELPIP)
• Proof of Canadian education
• Proof of work experience
• Police clearance certificate
• Medical exam results
• Proof of funds (in some cases)

Keep your documents updated and ready. Applying early increases your chances before any rule changes.