Maple News reports a growing trend of international students not only choosing Canada as their study destination but also transitioning into long-term residents. This migration pathway is increasingly shaping Canada’s demographic and labour landscape.
According to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), the number of study permit holders surged from just over 122,000 in 2000 to more than 642,000 in 2019. These students represent a vital pool of skilled, educated talent, with many leveraging their studies as a stepping stone toward permanent residency.
A Statistics Canada report highlights that 30% of international students who began their studies in Canada after 2000 secured permanent residency within a decade of receiving their first study permit. The transition rates were notably higher among those pursuing advanced degrees—50% of master’s students and 60% of PhD graduates became permanent residents in the same timeline.
The report also notes significant growth in PR transitions for students enrolled in non-university post-secondary programs, such as colleges and technical institutes. Between cohorts from 2000–2004 and 2010–2014, the number of these graduates becoming permanent residents more than doubled—suggesting many view vocational education as an effective and accessible path to immigration.
India leads as the top source country for student-to-PR transitions, with 46% of Indian students who received study permits between 2010 and 2014 gaining PR status within five years. Nigeria and Vietnam follow, with conversion rates of 30% and 21%, respectively.
Employment during or shortly after studies significantly boosts the likelihood of obtaining permanent residency. Students who gained Canadian work experience had a 60% chance of becoming PRs. Income level also played a critical role: among those who earned $50,000 or more annually, a striking 87% made the transition successfully. In contrast, students earning under $20,000 saw only a 46% transition rate.
This data suggests that gaining local work experience and securing higher-paying employment are among the most influential factors in achieving immigration goals. The Canadian government views international students as ideal candidates for permanent residency—not only because of their education, but also due to their adaptability and contribution to the labour force.
Furthermore, international students have played a vital role in helping Canada’s population return to pre-pandemic levels. Their presence supports a healthy, dynamic, and multicultural society, while bolstering economic growth.
Maple News continues to track these developments as international graduates reshape what it means to build a future in Canada through education and strategic migration pathways.