New Pathway to Permanent Residency for International Graduates in Canada

Source: Government of Canada

Encouraging news was just announced for recent overseas students in Canada hoping to apply for permanent residency. Starting on May 6, 2021, those who possess the skills necessary to strengthen the economy after the COVID-19 pandemic will be able to apply for permanent status under a new stream.

Currently employed international graduates who have completed an eligible program at a Canadian post-secondary institution no earlier than January 2017 are welcome to apply. Immigration, Refugees & Citizenship Canada will accept 40,000 applications through this stream. Otherwise, it is expected to remain open until November 5, 2021.

In an effort to promote the official languages of Canada, English & French, an additional stream with no limit cap was also announced for Francophone and bilingual graduates.

The Government of Canada is working to show that they value the contributions of foreign students. Not only do they impact the economy but they help shape the multicultural society that Canadians cherish. These new immigration streams will hopefully encourage international talent to make their stay in Canada a permanent one and drive the country forward for years to come.

Advertisement
building photography

Immigrants Increasingly Turning to Smaller Canadian Cities

Source: Study International

The recent surge in popularity of Canada as a study abroad destination suggests that people from around the world see the country as a great place to live and learn. Cities with and near major universities and colleges have often been thought to benefit most from this influx of overseas learners. However new data from Ryerson University indicates that smaller cities across Canada are witnessing an even greater rise in the number of new Canadians moving in.

Major cities like Vancouver, Montreal, Calgary, and Toronto saw their combined number of new immigrants rise 9% from 2013-2019. In the same time period, places like Regina, Saskatoon, Fredericton, and Halifax saw an increase of 45%.

These smaller cities all have universities that are highly rated and boast scholarships for international students as well as increasingly multicultural communities. The cost of living in less dense parts of Canada is also lower than in the major metropolises.

The data also make sense because provinces like Alberta, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan have all recently introduced plans to address changes in the job market and deal with potential skills shortages. Immigrants choosing these provinces, as opposed to British Columbia or Ontario for example, suggest that these plans are well on their way to success.

Top 5 Reasons to Study In Canada

Source: Universities Canada

A group of students completing their post-secondary education in Canada was recently interviewed about how they enjoyed studying in the country. The group was also asked to discuss the reasons that made them choose Canada as an international education destination. They explained, in the above video, that Canada is known for offering educational programs that are recognized globally at rates that are more affordable that other countries. Canada also boasts a safe, multicultural society with colleges and universities that strive to see their students succeed.

Where Are American Visa Rejects Heading?

Source: Our Cartoon President, Study International

The popular American H-1B visa program has become increasingly unappealing to international students during the reign of the Trump administration. This is due to mounting restrictions and higher rejection rates witnessed by students in recent years.

America’s loss is proving to be Canada’s gain though. Overseas students see Canada as having an immigration policy that is more welcoming to newcomers. They are also aware that the paths to achieving a work permit or Canadian citizenship are easier to navigate than the systems employed by the US. These factors, in addition to the Canadian government announcing the Student Direct Stream to accelerate the application process for students, Canada continues to improve its reputation as an international education destination.