Tools
A reference map of common pathways to Canadian Permanent Residency. Each step links to the relevant IRCC official page.
This page is a navigator, not an estimator. It does not predict timelines, success rates, or eligibility. For your specific situation, use IRCC's official tools or consult a registered RCIC.
Graduate from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), work on a Post-Graduation Work Permit, then apply through Express Entry (Canadian Experience Class).
Confirm your school is on the DLI list with PGWP eligibility
Not all Canadian schools qualify for PGWP. The school must be a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) and the specific program must be PGWP-eligible.
→ IRCC DLI listObtain a study permit and complete your program
Apply for a study permit before arriving. Maintain full-time enrolment and follow study permit conditions throughout your program.
→ IRCC study permitApply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) within 180 days of graduation
After graduating, you have 180 days to apply for a PGWP. Length of the PGWP depends on the length of your program. Field of study and PGWP rules were updated in 2024.
→ IRCC PGWP rulesAccumulate at least 1 year of skilled Canadian work experience (NOC TEER 0–3)
For Canadian Experience Class (CEC) eligibility, you need at least 12 months of full-time skilled work experience in Canada within the past 3 years.
→ IRCC CEC eligibilityCreate an Express Entry profile
Once eligible, submit a profile to the Express Entry pool. You receive a CRS score based on your age, education, language, and experience.
→ IRCC Express EntryWait for an Invitation to Apply (ITA), then submit your PR application
IRCC issues ITAs through periodic draws. Cutoff scores and draw frequency vary by category and date. After receiving an ITA, you submit a full PR application.
→ IRCC draw historyProcessing times for work permits, study permits, and PR applications vary by application type, country of residence, and IRCC capacity. They change frequently. This page does not estimate timelines.
→ IRCC official processing time toolDisclaimer
This page provides general reference information about Canadian PR pathways. It does not predict eligibility, processing times, or outcomes for any individual case.
This is not immigration advice. For your specific situation, use IRCC's official tools or consult a registered Canadian immigration consultant (RCIC) or lawyer.