WHICH VISA DOES A INTERNATIONAL STUDENT APPLY FOR STUDY IN CANADA
A STUDENT WILL REQUIRE A STUDY PERMIT TO START THEIR EDUCATION IN CANADA.
A student visa authorizes one’s entry into Canada, a study permit validates one’s stay in Canada. It is a mandatory immigration document for an international student. If one holds a study permit, they must remain enrolled and make reasonable and timely progress toward completing their course. The study permit is always accompanied by a visitor visa or Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). Please note that a study permit is a document that allows one to study in Canada while a visitor visa or ETA allows one to enter Canada.
WHAT IS SDS VISA FOR STUDY IN CANADA?
The Student Direct Stream (SDS) program was introduced by Immigration, Refugee and Citizenship Canada to expedite the visa process. This program has not only accelerated the visa process but has also made it more streamlined and convenient. SDS allows applicants to receive their visas within 4-6 weeks. Moreover, if an eligible student applies through SDS, it is highly likely that their application will be processed between 20 – 45 working days from the date of submission of the study permit application.
WHAT IS PGWP FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS IN CANADA?
The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is a Canadian immigration programme that allows international students who have finished a study programme at an approved Canadian learning institution to work in Canada after graduation. The PGWP allows students to earn significant Canadian work experience that can improve their prospects of gaining permanent residency (PR) in the future.
KEY DETAILS ABOUT THE PGWP
Study at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI): You must have finished a full-time program of study at a designated Canadian learning institution to be eligible for a PGWP. DLIs are universities, colleges, and other educational institutions accredited by the Canadian government.
Program Length: The length of the PGWP you can earn is determined by the length of the program you completed in Canada. You may be eligible for a work permit that is valid for the duration of your program, up to a maximum of three years.
Full-Time Study: During your program, you must have studied full-time, which normally entails enrolling in a minimum number of credit hours or courses every semester or term as stipulated by your institution.
Valid Study Permit: Throughout your program of study in Canada, you must have possessed a valid study permit.
BENEFITS OF PGWP FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
Work Permit: The PGWP permits you to work in Canada for the period of the permit. You are not bound to a particular employer or job, and you can earn significant Canadian work experience in any industry.
Open Work Permit: The PGWP is an open work permit, which means you are not bound to a certain employer. You have the freedom to switch occupations or work in numerous locations across Canada.
Pathway to Permanent Residency Work experience in Canada obtained through the PGWP may improve your eligibility for permanent residency programs such as the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) or Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). Work experience in Canada can help you gain crucial points in the Express Entry Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), enhancing your chances of earning an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for PR.The PGWP allows international students to earn important Canadian work experience while improving their chances of acquiring permanent residency in Canada. It is critical to become acquainted with the exact eligibility requirements and application process established by the IRCC, and to seek personalized advice from immigration specialists or consultants.
Ample Work opportunities: Canada has seen a lot of international students from across the globe and has provided different work opportunities to both students and professionals. As per Forbes and US News released rankings, Canada is considered as the best country amongst G20 countries for establishing business operations. Many opportunities await an international student during and after completion of their studies.