STUDY PERMITS NO LONGER GUARANTEE AUTOMATIC PERMANENT RESIDENCY IN CANADA

Canada's immigration policy has undergone a significant change, affecting international students who were previously eligible for automatic passage from study permits to permanent residency. Canada is planning to close this pathway to make way for a more competitive and merit-based system.

Canadian Immigration Minister, Marc Miller stated that, "studying in Canada does not automatically guarantee permanent residency. International students may have to apply for permanent status through a separate process". 

Whiles this change was least expected and may seem a bit troubling, it is important to note that international students can still pursue permanent residency in Canada through other pathways. For instance, they could explore the Provincial Nominee Programs, which allow provinces to nominate candidates with specific skills and experience for permanent residency.

Also International students can consider applying for the Federal Skilled Worker Program which assesses students based on skills, education, and work experience. They can also look into the Start-Up Visa Program which supports entrepreneurs and start-up founders who have a business idea and the potential to create jobs in Canada.

To increase their chances of success, international students are encouraged to focus on gaining valuable work experiences and developing skills that are in high demand in Canada whiles studying and also build a strong network of professional contacts. They can choose to pursue a Masters Degree or PhD in Canada which can provide a competitive edge in the job market and improve their chances of securing permanent residency.

Students are advised to take advantage of various resources and support services offered by Canadian universities and immigration experts to help them navigate the immigration process. These resources may include workshops, webinars and one-on-one consulting sessions.

Though the changes in Canada's immigration policy may present new challenges to international students, it also provides the opportunity for them to focus on developing real life skills that are in high demand that can help in boosting Canada's economy in meaningful ways and also help them in acquiring permanent residencies as they desire.