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Moving to Ontario as an international student is an exciting journey filled with opportunities to learn and grow. After graduation, many students wish to stay in Ontario permanently, and luckily, Canada offers several pathways to permanent residency (PR).
If you’re wondering how to apply for PR in Ontario, this guide will simplify the process so you can confidently plan your future.
Understand the PR Pathways Available
Ontario offers three main options for international students seeking PR:
Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP)
Express Entry
Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP)
The OINP is a great option for students who studied in Ontario. It has two key streams:
International Student Stream: For graduates with a job offer in Ontario.
Masters/PhD Graduate Stream: For graduates without a job offer but who completed a degree in Ontario.
Express Entry & Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
Express Entry is a federal system managing PR applications. If you’ve gained work experience in Ontario through a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), you can apply through the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), which is perfect for students with at least one year of Canadian work experience.
Meet the Eligibility Requirements
Each program has its own requirements, but generally, you’ll need to:
Complete a program of at least 8 months at a designated learning institution (DLI).
Hold a valid work permit (like a PGWP).
Gain relevant work experience (especially for CEC or job-offer-based streams).
Demonstrate language proficiency (via IELTS or CELPIP).
Show proof of funds, if required.
Make sure to carefully check the specific requirements for your chosen program.
Gather Your Documents
You’ll need to collect essential documents like:
Educational credentials (degree, diploma, transcripts)
Work experience letters (if applicable)
Language test results
Proof of funds
Valid passport and study/work permits
Job offer letter (if required)
Organizing your documents early helps avoid unnecessary delays.
Submit Your PR Application
If applying through Express Entry, create an online profile with details about your education, work history, and language scores. If Ontario nominates you through the OINP, you’ll get 600 additional CRS points, almost guaranteeing you an invitation to apply for PR. Once invited, submit your complete PR application. Express Entry processing typically takes 6-8 months, while OINP might take a bit longer.
Applying for PR as an international student in Ontario is achievable with the right planning. Whether you choose OINP, Express Entry, or CEC, each pathway leads to the same goal, making Ontario your permanent home. Thousands of students successfully become permanent residents every year, and you can too! If you need guidance, reach out our expert advice to make your PR journey smoother. With determination and the right support, your future in Ontario is closer than you think!
For expert guidance on your immigration journey, contact Oasis Visas today! We're here to help you every step of the way. Reach out to us via email at info@oasis-india.com. Let’s make your dreams of living and working abroad a reality!