Studying in Canada is a dream for many international students, and Canada is happy to welcome them. Every year, Canada issues tens of thousands of study permits to international students from all over the world. If you are an international student planning to study in Canada, you will enjoy many benefits as a full-time student at a Canadian college or university.
In addition to the top-quality education you will receive, there are several incentives offered by the Canadian government to attract international students to study in Canada. These benefits include the following:
- Work while studying: As an international student with a valid study permit, you may be able to work on campus, off campus, or through co-op programs while studying. This will help you to support yourself financially while gaining valuable work experience.
- Stay and work in Canada after graduation: Canada offers a Post-Graduation Work Permit Program (PGWPP) that allows international graduates to stay and work in Canada for up to three years after graduation. This program will help you to gain Canadian work experience, which will be useful when you apply for permanent residence in Canada.
- Easy path to permanent residency: Canada has several programs that offer an easy path to permanent residency for international students. For example, the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) is a program that allows international students with Canadian work experience to apply for permanent residence in Canada.
- High standard of living: Canada is known for its high standard of living, and as an international student, you will have access to the same quality of life as Canadian citizens. This includes access to healthcare, social services, and a safe and welcoming environment.
- Multiculturalism: Canada is a multicultural country that welcomes people from all over the world. As an international student, you will have the opportunity to experience different cultures and make friends with people from all over the world.
It is important to note that these benefits only apply to international students completing a program of post-secondary study in Canada with their study permit. Students enrolled in English as a Second Language programs are not eligible for these benefits, even if they have a study permit.
In conclusion, if you are an international student with dreams of studying abroad, Canada is a great option to consider. With its top-quality education, generous benefits, and welcoming environment, studying in Canada can be a life-changing experience.
Can I work in Canada while studying?
As an international student in Canada with a study permit, you have the opportunity to work while studying to offset your study costs. Many students choose to work on campus where there are no restrictions on the number of hours you can work.
However, if you decide to work off campus, there are some restrictions you need to be aware of. Previously, international students were only allowed to work off campus up to 20 hours per week during school sessions, and full-time during school breaks. Nonetheless, you can still work during school breaks to help pay your living expenses and improve your language skills.
The Canadian government recently introduced a temporary policy for off campus work for the remainder of 2023. This policy allows international students who applied for their study permit (or extension) before October 7, 2022, and have proof of enrolment in full-time studies at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), to work more than 20 hours per week off campus while class is in session. This initiative is expected to help employers who are still recovering from the pandemic.
By taking advantage of the opportunity to work while studying in Canada, you can gain valuable work experience, improve your language skills, and offset your study costs. Keep in mind that this temporary policy will expire on December 31, 2023, and you should consult the government website for any updates or changes to the policy.
Is my partner able to work in Canada?
International students who wish to bring their spouse to Canada must ensure that their spouse completes the application process and is approved for a visa. The usual requirements, such as supporting documents and admissibility checks, also apply to their application. Once approved, the spouse will be eligible for an open work permit. This permit allows the spouse to work in almost any job, without the need for the Canadian employer to obtain special permission to hire them. This makes it much easier for the spouse to find a job in Canada, which can help offset the costs of tuition, housing, and living expenses while the student studies in Canada.
Many international students hope to qualify for permanent residency in Canada one day. While this is a common dream, it is important to understand that there are more international students in Canada than there are spots available in the immigration programs. As a result, it is essential to be realistic and to explore opportunities that can increase your chances of achieving permanent residency.
One of these opportunities may be for the spouse to qualify for permanent residency sooner than the student. It is worth exploring this option early on in your time in Canada. The options for immigration vary depending on the province where you study, but the spouse may be able to start the process of applying for permanent residency based on their work background while the student is still completing their studies.
It is crucial to note that the immigration process can be complex and time-consuming. It is highly recommended to consult with an immigration lawyer or a reputable immigration consultant who can help you navigate the process and maximize your chances of success. Overall, bringing a spouse to Canada as an international student can offer many benefits, but it is important to understand the requirements and plan accordingly.
Can my child go to Public School In Canada?
Certainly, a dependent child of an international student who travels with them to Canada can attend school in Canada. In the public education system, these students can finish their secondary education up to Grade 12, and typically without being subject to international student fees.
Will I be able to obtain a Post Grad Work Permit following graduation?
Studying in Canada can lead to obtaining a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) which allows international students to work after graduation. The PGWP is an open work permit, meaning it allows you to work in almost any job without requiring the employer to have special permission to hire you. However, it is crucial to ensure that the program of study qualifies for the PGWP before paying tuition fees. The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is in charge of the PGWP and has specific rules for qualifying programs. While most programs in public colleges and universities will qualify, some smaller colleges may not. It is important to confirm in writing that your program is eligible, especially if you are attending a lesser-known institution. Many international students have experienced disappointment and confusion upon learning that their program does not qualify for the PGWP, and it is essential to avoid this situation by taking the necessary precautions.
Obtaining a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is one of the most significant advantages of studying in Canada. After completing a Canadian program of study, international students can apply for a PGWP, which is an open work permit allowing them to work in almost any job without special employer permission. To avoid disappointment, it is essential to ensure that the program of study qualifies for the PGWP before paying tuition fees. The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) oversees the PGWP and has established guidelines for eligible programs. While most programs in public colleges and universities qualify, some smaller colleges may not. If you are attending a lesser-known institution, it is essential to confirm in writing that your program qualifies. Many international students have experienced disappointment and confusion upon discovering that their program does not qualify for the PGWP, and it is vital to avoid this situation by taking the necessary steps.
If you plan to study in Canada, obtaining a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is a significant benefit. After completing a Canadian program of study, international students can apply for a PGWP, which is an open work permit that allows them to work in almost any job without requiring the employer to have special permission to hire them. However, before paying tuition fees, it is essential to confirm that the program of study qualifies for the PGWP. The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) administers the PGWP and sets criteria for qualifying programs. While most programs in public colleges and universities meet the requirements, some smaller colleges do not. Therefore, if you are attending a lesser-known institution, it is crucial to confirm in writing that your program qualifies. To avoid disappointment and frustration, take the necessary precautions and ensure that your program qualifies for the PGWP.
When studying in Canada, obtaining a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is a significant benefit for international students. After completing a Canadian program of study, international students can apply for a PGWP, which is an open work permit that allows them to work in almost any job without requiring special permission from the employer. However, before paying tuition fees, it is essential to ensure that the program of study qualifies for the PGWP. The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) administers the PGWP and sets criteria for qualifying programs. While most programs in public colleges and universities are eligible, some smaller colleges are not. Therefore, it is crucial to confirm in writing that your program qualifies, especially if you are attending a lesser-known institution. Avoid disappointment and confusion by taking the necessary precautions and ensuring that your program qualifies for the PGWP.
Duration of post-grad work permit in Canada
The length of your post-grad work permit is based on the duration of your study and the post-secondary program you completed.
The post-grad work permit ranges from 1 to 3 years.
If you finished a one-year academic program, you are eligible for a 1-year work permit. On the other hand, if your program lasted for 2 or more academic years, you can apply for a 3-year work permit. In some cases, pursuing two one-year programs may qualify you for a 3-year post-grad work permit.
Your eligibility for a post-grad work permit depends on the length of your study and the type of program you completed.
Post-grad work permits are valid for 1 to 3 years.
If you completed an academic program of one year, you are eligible for a 1-year work permit. If your program of study was 2 or more academic years, you are entitled to a 3-year work permit. In some cases, enrolling in two one-year programs may qualify you for a 3-year post-grad work permit.
The length of your post-grad work permit will vary based on your academic program and length of study.
Post-grad work permits are granted for 1 to 3 years.
A one-year program entitles you to a 1-year work permit, while a program of 2 or more academic years qualifies you for a 3-year work permit. Pursuing two one-year programs may also qualify you for a 3-year post-grad work permit.
The duration of your post-grad work permit depends on the program you completed and the length of your study in Canada.
A post-grad work permit is valid for 1 to 3 years.
A one-year program qualifies for a 1-year work permit, while a program of 2 or more academic years entitles you to a 3-year work permit. Under certain circumstances, pursuing two one-year programs may qualify you for a 3-year post-grad work permit.
Key information about the post-graduation work permit
A post-grad work permit is a crucial aspect of studying in Canada, and it’s essential to be aware of some key information. First, remember that you can only receive one post-grad work permit in your lifetime, so it’s important to consider your future plans when choosing your educational path.
Secondly, obtaining a 1-year work permit may not be enough to qualify for Permanent Residence in Canada. To become eligible for most PR pathways, you need to work a full 12 months in Canada, usually in a skilled occupation. Therefore, a 2-year program of study is recommended, which will provide you with the 3-year PGWP that gives greater flexibility.
For international students, obtaining skilled work experience with their PGWP opens up many possibilities to qualify for permanent residence through the Express Entry program.
Lastly, if you have a spouse or common-law partner, their work permit expires at the same time as your study permit. However, as of January 30, 2023, they can renew their open work permit as the spouse or partner of a PGWP holder.
It’s crucial to keep these key points in mind to make the most of your post-grad work permit and your time in Canada. By carefully considering your educational pathway and working towards skilled work experience, you can set yourself up for a successful future in Canada.
Conclusion
When considering studying in Canada as an international student, seeking advice from a professional is highly recommended. By doing so, you can better understand the immigration opportunities available to you and maximize your chances of success.
At New Beginnings Immigration, we have extensive experience working with international students from the beginning of their journey abroad to obtaining permanent residence and Canadian citizenship. Our team of experts is ready to guide you through every step of the process.
So why wait? Contact us today to start your journey towards studying in Canada and realizing your dreams of a bright future.