Canada Expands PR Pathways for International Graduates

Canada continues to offer opportunities for international graduates to transition from student status to permanent residency (PR) through Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). Eight provinces have dedicated streams specifically targeting international students who wish to settle in Canada long-term.

These PNP streams allow graduates to apply for PR, with some requiring a job offer and others requesting an Expression of Interest (EOI). Here’s a quick breakdown of the provinces currently offering these pathways:

• Alberta: Graduate Entrepreneur & Foreign Graduate Entrepreneur Streams
• Manitoba: Career Employment Pathway, Graduate Internship, & International Student Entrepreneur Pilot
• New Brunswick: Private Career College Graduate Pilot Program
• Newfoundland & Labrador: International Graduate Category & Graduate Entrepreneur Streams (New and Existing Businesses)
• Nova Scotia: International Graduates in Demand & Entrepreneur Streams
• Ontario: Employer Job Offer, Master’s & PhD Graduate Streams
• Prince Edward Island: International Graduates Stream
• Saskatchewan: Student Work Experience Sub-Category

These streams are designed to attract talented international graduates who have studied in Canada and have the skills needed to contribute to local economies. Most streams require candidates to show a clear intent to live in the province and meet specific job and settlement criteria.

Key Requirements:

• Graduation from a recognized institution in the province
• A job offer (for most streams)
• Submission of an Expression of Interest (EOI) where applicable

For graduates considering staying in Canada post-study, these pathways offer a promising route to permanent residency.