Converting a Study Visa to Permanent Residency in Canada
Canada is one of the most sought-after destinations for obtaining permanent residency and providing a better life and opportunities for children. Many immigrants from around the world strive to obtain permanent residency in this country. In pursuit of permanent residency in Canada, there are various programs and pathways available, with studying in Canada being one of the most popular options. While a study visa in Canada is initially a temporary stay, is there a way to convert a study visa to permanent residency in Canada? Join us at Palina Immigration Company as we explore all the ambiguities in this matter.
The reasons for the popularity of Canada as a destination for study visas can be attributed to the high social welfare in the country, quality education, and top-ranking universities in Canada. However, when it comes to studying in Canada, the topic of post-study residency becomes a subject of concern for applicants. In this regard, Canada has introduced programs specifically for international students to obtain post-graduation residency in the country, allowing them to extend and eventually transition to permanent residency.
Converting a student visa to permanent residency in Canada through the Express Entry system
By now, you may have heard about the Express Entry system as the primary system for economic immigration to Canada. Since its introduction in 2015, the system has undergone changes to provide benefits to international students who have graduated from Canadian universities.
The most significant noticeable change was the addition of 30 points to the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) for those students who have obtained a university degree in Canada. Before being eligible for an invitation to apply for permanent residency in Canada as a student, you must meet the requirements for one of the three federal economic immigration programs and enter the Express Entry pool. The Express Entry pool is where the CRS system assigns points to individuals.
Afterwards, the Canadian government invites the top candidates in the Express Entry pool to submit an application through draws that usually occur every few weeks. Once invited, the candidate has 60 days to submit a complete application. The process for this government program in Canada takes a minimum of six months to complete. The priority for Express Entry programs is given to young candidates with Canadian education and work experience, as well as language proficiency. This opportunity provides international students and graduates of Canadian universities with a special chance to obtain permanent residency in Canada.
Post-graduation residency in Canada through investment
Investing in Canada is another pathway to obtain post-study residency in the country. Given that Canada has one of the best and most secure financial and banking systems globally, many individuals have an interest in investing in this country. Although studying in Canada is not a requirement for obtaining residency through investment, this pathway can still be utilized to extend your stay in Canada.
The main advantage of studying and subsequently investing in Canada is becoming closely familiar with the country and its job market. By doing so, you can even acquire Canadian skills, which allows you to make more informed and confident decisions compared to someone who invests in Canada from outside the country.
Post-Graduation Residency in Canada through Marriage
You can obtain post-graduation residency in Canada through marriage to a Canadian citizen. If you marry a Canadian citizen while you are in Canada, you will be able to obtain residency and Canadian citizenship.
An important note in this regard is the requirement to prove the authenticity of the marriage. If it is determined that the purpose of the marriage was solely to obtain Canadian residency, or in other words, it was a sham marriage, both parties involved may face penalties.
The general requirements for this program include being over 18 years of age and the Canadian spouse having the financial capability to support both individuals. Furthermore, the couple must live together in a common household. If the requirements are met, the foreign spouse is initially granted a three-year temporary residency, and after three years, subject to the stability of the marriage, the individual can apply for Canadian citizenship and passport.
Post-Graduation Residency and Canadian Citizenship
The final step in immigrating to Canada is obtaining Canadian citizenship. It is essential to understand the difference between permanent residency and citizenship. On the surface, individuals with permanent residency in Canada may not seem significantly different from Canadian citizens, as they enjoy the same benefits of citizenship and social welfare services. However, there are differences for permanent residents, such as not being eligible to vote or engage in security or political jobs.
As mentioned in previous programs, in all pathways for post-graduation residency in Canada, you will not be able to directly obtain Canadian citizenship, and you must first obtain permanent residency in Canada and then apply for Canadian citizenship after a few years. Usually, after three years of permanent residency in Canada, applicants can apply for Canadian citizenship and passport.
Lastly, it should be noted that studying in Canada can bring you closer to obtaining permanent residency. For individuals who have a desirable academic status, language proficiency, and the financial capability to support their education, it is an excellent opportunity to live in Canada. Post-graduation residency in Canada is of great importance for international students studying in Canada. Many individuals who come to study in Canada desire to continue residing in the country and pursue their careers and lives.
The good news is that there are various pathways for post-graduation residency in Canada, and the most popular one is obtaining a work permit after graduation. This may even lead to permanent residency and Canadian citizenship.