Maple News reports that international students who graduate from Canadian institutions have a wide array of pathways to apply for permanent residence (PR), thanks to a diverse suite of federal and provincial immigration programs tailored to meet various qualifications and regional demands.
At the federal level, the Express Entry system rewards Canadian-educated graduates with additional Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points: up to 30 for completing a degree program, and 15 for shorter diplomas. These extra points can significantly boost a candidate’s chance of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for PR.
Graduates in Atlantic Canada can benefit from the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP), which offers a dedicated stream for international students who complete their studies at recognized institutions in New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, or Prince Edward Island — provided they secure a job offer from a designated employer.
Ontario offers three streams for international graduates: the Employer Job Offer: International Student Stream, PhD Graduate Stream, and Masters Graduate Stream. While the job offer is required under the Employer stream, PhD and Masters streams allow graduates to apply without employment, provided they meet residency, language, and settlement requirements.
Quebec runs the Quebec Experience Program (PEQ), offering a fast-track option for those who study in the province. To qualify, graduates must demonstrate French proficiency and intend to reside in Quebec long-term. Eligible programs include trade, college, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctorate diplomas.
Several other provinces have targeted pathways for international students. Saskatchewan requires a relevant job offer and six months of related work experience, while Manitoba offers three distinct routes under its International Education Stream: Career Employment Pathway, Graduate Internship Pathway (which does not require a job offer), and the International Student Entrepreneur Pilot.
In Alberta, two options are available: the Alberta Opportunity Stream for those who work in their field and hold a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), and the Graduate Entrepreneur Stream for students establishing businesses in the province. Nova Scotia provides two routes: one for graduates in in-demand occupations, and another for those starting their own business.
Newfoundland and Labrador’s programs cater to graduates with job offers or those running their own business. While a PGWP is usually required, graduates from Memorial University or the College of the North Atlantic may have additional flexibility. New Brunswick offers a unique pilot for graduates of approved private career colleges, requiring no prior work experience but offering a viable PR route if a job offer is secured shortly after graduation.
Overall, most pathways are tied to holding a PGWP, but eligibility, required experience, and timelines differ by province. Some streams are open to graduates from approved private institutions, while others are limited to those from publicly funded colleges and universities. Graduates are advised to act within one to two years of completing their program and to check if their credentials align with provincial requirements.
Maple News recommends that all international graduates exploring permanent residence options review the criteria specific to each program to choose the best pathway aligned with their academic background, career goals, and settlement intention.