From Student to Permanent Resident
How international students move from a study permit to a Post-Graduation Work Permit and then to permanent residence through Express Entry or a provincial stream.
The common study-to-PR route is: complete an eligible program, obtain a Post-Graduation Work Permit, gain skilled Canadian work experience, then apply for permanent residence through the Canadian Experience Class or a provincial graduate or worker stream. Timing, occupation and language results determine how smooth the transition is.
Key facts
| Step 1 | Eligible study program at a designated learning institution |
|---|---|
| Step 2 | Post-Graduation Work Permit where eligible |
| Step 3 | Skilled Canadian work experience |
| Step 4 | Express Entry (CEC) or provincial nomination |
Who may qualify?
- Graduates of eligible Canadian programs
- PGWP holders with skilled work experience
- Graduates targeting provincial graduate streams
Eligibility requirements
- PGWP eligibility criteria
- Skilled work experience in an appropriate NOC TEER category
- Language results meeting the target program's minimums
How it works: step by step
- 1
Plan before graduation
Confirm PGWP eligibility and target occupations early.
- 2
Apply for the PGWP
Submit within the permitted window after completing your program.
- 3
Build qualifying experience
Track duties, hours and NOC alignment carefully.
- 4
Apply for PR
Choose between Express Entry and provincial streams based on your score and province.
Expert insight
The single most common avoidable problem is work experience that does not match the intended NOC. Keeping accurate records and an employment letter template from day one prevents difficult evidence gaps later.
Alternative pathways
Frequently asked questions
Immigration programs, fees and processing times change frequently. This page is general information, not immigration advice. Verify current requirements with official Government of Canada sources or speak with our RCIC.