If you’re an international student nearing graduation or already working in Canada, you may be wondering how to apply for permanent residence Canada through Express Entry. The good news? Your Canadian education and work experience give you a strong advantage.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how international students can transition from study to PR using Express Entry, and what you should do to prepare a competitive profile.

What Is Express Entry?

Express Entry is Canada’s main system for managing permanent residence applications under economic immigration programs. It includes:

• Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
• Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
• Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)

As an international student who has studied and possibly worked in Canada, the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) will likely be your best route.

Why International Students Are Ideal PR Candidates

• Canadian education credentials are highly valued in the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS)
• Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) allows you to gain Canadian work experience
• You already meet language proficiency requirements (e.g., IELTS or CELPIP)

The opportunity to apply for permanent residence Canada through Express Entry is one of the most efficient and reliable immigration pathways

Step-by-Step: Apply for Permanent Residence Canada as an International Student

1. Complete a PGWP-Eligible Program

• Must be at least 8 months in duration
• Must be from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
• Must have eligible CIP codes

2. Get a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

• Apply within 180 days of receiving final marks
• This allows you to work full-time in Canada and gain valuable experience

3. Gain at Least 1 Year of Skilled Work Experience

• Work must be full-time (or equivalent part-time)
• Occupation must fall under TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 (formerly NOC 0, A, B)

4. Take a Language Test

• IELTS General Training or CELPIP General
• Minimum CLB 5 for TEER 2 & 3; CLB 7 for TEER 0 & 1 

5. Create an Express Entry Profile

• Enter your details: age, education, work experience, language scores
• Receive your CRS score

6. Improve Your CRS Score (Optional but Strategic)

• Obtain a provincial nomination (600 bonus points)
• Improve language score
• Gain more Canadian work experience
• Getting NCLC 7 in French

7. Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA)

• If your CRS score meets or exceeds the cut-off in a draw
• Submit your full PR application within 60 days

What Documents Will You Need?

• Passport
• PGWP and work history proof
• Education Credential Assessment (if you also studied outside Canada)
• IELTS or CELPIP results
• Police clearance certificate
• Medical exam

As an international student, your Canadian education and work experience give you a strong advantage.

How We Can Help

At LUU IMM, we assist international students with:

• PR planning from day one of your studies
• PGWP and Express Entry application support
• CRS score improvement strategies
• PNP options that align with your background and goals

Final Thoughts

For international students, the opportunity to apply for permanent residence Canada through Express Entry is one of the most efficient and reliable immigration pathways. With the right education, experience, and support, your study journey can lead to permanent settlement in Canada.

Want to build your PR strategy while you study? Contact us for personalized guidance today.