Here are three effective pathways to extend your stay in Canada.
How International Students Can Extend Stay in Canada? For international students in Canada, extending their stay after completing their studies is a common concern. With increasing competition for permanent residency (PR) and evolving immigration policies, many students are seeking ways to legally remain in the country. Fortunately, several options are available to help students extend their status and work toward their PR goals. (Canada Immigration news)
Here are three effective pathways to extend your stay in Canada:
1. Extend Your Student Status
One option for students who have completed a one-year course is to enroll in a second course and extend their study permit. This is a strategic move to delay claiming your Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) and potentially extend its duration later on.
Why it works: By completing a second study program, you can qualify for a longer PGWP. For instance, a one-year program grants a one-year PGWP, while a two-year program could extend your work permit to three years.
Master’s Advantage: Enrolling in a Master’s program not only extends your stay but also increases your eligibility for PR through streams like Ontario’s Masters Graduate Program and the Express Entry system.
Application Process: To extend your stay, apply for a study permit extension at least 30 days before your current permit expires. Be sure to renew your social insurance number and health insurance with your extended study permit.
2. For Students with Expiring PGWPs
Students whose PGWPs are nearing expiration but haven’t accumulated enough points for PR can return to student status by enrolling in a new program. This option allows students to remain in Canada legally while improving their chances of meeting the PR points requirements.
Financial Consideration: Going back to student status is often more affordable than paying employers for illegal LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment) fees, making it a better investment toward securing your PR.
3. Apply for a Visitor Visa
Another option is to apply for a visitor visa, which allows you to stay in Canada for up to 6 months at a time.
Visitor visas are typically valid for 10 years or until the expiration of your passport. If needed, you can apply for a visitor record to extend your stay beyond 6 months. While this option doesn’t allow you to work, it offers more time to explore other pathways to extend your stay legally.
(For more news apart from How International Students Can Extend Stay in Canada Immigration news, stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman)
