Study, Work and become a Canadian Resident as an International Student!
You’ve probably learned by now that Immigration Canada has implemented some changes to its Express Entry point system -in effect as of November 19th 2016, and we’re very pleased to tell you that the new changes will allow International Students to have an easier pathway to become Canadian Residents after their studies in Canada!
You may find more information about these changes in the CIC website -relevant upon your graduation in Canada; but today we will show you some benefits of studying in Canada and the requirements to apply for a Study Permit.
Benefits of Studying in Canada
As International Students of a post-secondary program in Canada at a designated learning institution -most public funded colleges and universities-, you may:

  • Work Part-Time while studying, and Full-Time during the breaks -e.g. Summer
  • Upon graduation, apply for a Full-Time Work Permit based on the program’s duration -see Table 1
  • Become a Canadian Resident after obtaining a 1 year of qualified work experience
  • Your Spouse or common law partner can work Full-Time while you study and become a Canadian Resident after obtaining a 1 year of qualified work experience
  • Your minor dependent children may study free of charge
  • And of course, you may live a unique multicultural experience and have access to many opportunities to grow personally and professionally
Table 1
Requirements to apply for a Canadian Study Permit (or Study Visa)
You must:
  • Have proof of acceptance by a Designated Canadian Learning Institution
  • Have proof of identity (valid passport)
  • Demonstrate that you have the minimum funds to pay for your studies and living expenses for the first year of studies -see Table 2
Table 2 -Minimum amounts required (for a 12-month period only)
Other requirements
You should:
Not have a criminal record in your country of residency, have good use of previous visa permits (including the USA), your application must be accurate and accompanied by proper documentation, demonstrate that you are well established in your country of residency, among others.
Disclaimer:
Most of the information in this page has been taken from the Canadian Immigration and Citizenship site. We are not certified immigration consultants and always encourage people to either apply for their Study Permits on their own or by using the services of certified immigration consultants. Note that hiring a consultant to fill-out your application does not guarantee that you will obtain a Canadian Study Permit (or Study Visa).