5 Things International Students Can Do to Improve Their Chances at Receiving Canadian PR
For many international students, studying in Canada is just the beginning. The real dream? Becoming a Canadian Permanent Resident (PR). While a Canadian education gives you a major advantage, the road to PR isn’t automatic. With stricter immigration policies and rising competition, students need to strategize early.
Here are the top 5 proven ways international students can boost their chances of receiving PR in Canada — straight from the experts at Visa Master Canada.
1. Choose a PR-Friendly Province (PNP Advantage)
Not all provinces are created equal when it comes to permanent residency.
Why it matters:
Most provinces offer Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) that fast-track international students who graduate locally.
Top PR-friendly provinces for students:
- Ontario (OINP International Student Stream)
- British Columbia (BC PNP International Graduate)
- Saskatchewan (SINP for Graduates)
- Manitoba and Nova Scotia also offer excellent PR pathways
📌 Tip from Visa Master Canada: Before enrolling, research which provinces align with your future PR plans. Our consultants can help you select a program strategically.
2. Gain Skilled Work Experience After Graduation
Graduating isn’t the finish line—Canadian work experience is key for most PR programs, especially Express Entry.
What to do:
- Apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) right after completing your studies.
- Seek jobs in NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 categories, which qualify you for Express Entry (CEC) or PNPs.
- Even 1 year of full-time skilled work in Canada dramatically boosts your CRS score.
💼 Need help with PGWP or job search strategy? Talk to our experts at Visa Master Canada.
3. Boost Your CRS Score for Express Entry
The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score is the backbone of Express Entry.
Ways to improve your CRS:
- Get a high IELTS score (CLB 9+)
- Pursue a Canadian master’s or second credential
- Gain more work experience
- Get a provincial nomination (adds 600 points!)
- Have a sibling in Canada (15 points)
📊 Fun fact: Just increasing your IELTS score by one band can boost your score by 50–100 points.
At Visa Master Canada, we offer IELTS coaching, PR assessment, and one-on-one Express Entry consultations.
4. Apply Through a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
PNPs are a fast-track to PR that many students overlook.
Each province sets its own criteria, and many favor:
- Graduates of their own colleges/universities
- Candidates with job offers in demand occupations
- French-speaking students (especially in Ontario, NB, Quebec)
🎓 If you’ve studied and worked in a province, your chances of being nominated go way up.
✅ Bonus: Some PNPs allow direct PR application without Express Entry.
💬 Let us guide you through the right PNP at Visa Master Canada.
5. Stay Up to Date with IRCC Policy Changes
Canada’s immigration landscape evolves frequently—from study permit caps to new PR streams.
Recent updates that impact students:
- 2025 Study Permit Cap
- Increased proof of funds (CAD $22,885 as of Sept 1, 2025)
- Targeted Express Entry draws for in-demand occupations
- More province-specific nomination draws
Staying updated helps you pivot early and make informed moves.
📢 Subscribe to alerts and get expert immigration help at Visa Master Canada.
Becoming a Canadian permanent resident as an international student is absolutely achievable—but you need the right game plan.
From choosing the right province to maximizing CRS scores, every step counts.
At Visa Master Canada, we specialize in helping international students transition from study permits to PR successfully. Whether you’re just planning your studies or are nearing graduation, our experts are here to guide you.
📍 Start your PR journey today:
👉 Visit: https://www.visamastercanada.com
📞 Book a consultation with our immigration advisors
📩 Get your personalized PR pathway assessment
