Study to permanent residence.
For students planning to study at a Canadian college or university and stay afterwards.
At a glance
The usual route is study permit → post-graduation work permit (PGWP) → Canadian work experience → permanent residence through Express Entry or a provincial program. Study permit caps and PGWP rules changed in 2024 and 2025, so check current eligibility for your program before you enrol.
Five steps, at a glance.
An overview of the process. Requirements change, so always check IRCC before you apply.
Choose a program and school
Check the school is a designated learning institution and that the program can lead to a work permit.
Get your study permit
You’ll need an acceptance letter, proof of funds and, in most cases, a provincial attestation letter.
Study and work within the rules
Students can work off campus for a limited number of hours during term.
Apply for a post-graduation work permit
Eligibility depends on your program, field of study and language results.
Gain experience and apply for PR
Canadian work experience counts toward Express Entry and many provincial programs.
Who it’s for, and who it isn’t.
Usually a fit if
- You want a Canadian credential
- You can fund tuition and living costs
- Your program leads to PGWP eligibility
Probably not for you if
- You mainly want to work. Study permits aren’t work permits
- Your program isn’t PGWP-eligible and you need to stay long term
What you’ll usually need.
Collect documents early, since some take months to get. Government fees change; check IRCC’s fee list for current amounts.
- Letter of acceptance
- Provincial attestation letter (most students)
- Proof of funds
- Passport
- Language results (for many programs)
Then comes settling.
Approval is the start. Here’s what comes next.
First 30 days
SIN, bank, phone, health card, in the right order.
Housing
From a temporary stay to your first lease.
Banking
Open an account and start building credit.
Send money home
Compare what your family actually receives.
Before you land
Documents, money and a place to stay.
Choose a city
Rent, jobs and communities compared.
India
China
Nigeria
Philippines
Sri Lanka