Looking to connect with anyone who studied in Canada and got PR — need honest advice!

[OscarDix]

I’m 20 and currently living in the U.S. with a work permit (EAD). I studied one year of college here and work in customer service, but my goal is to move to Canada to study, work, and eventually become a permanent resident (PR).
I’m in the process of applying to a college diploma program (PGWP-eligible) and getting ready for the study permit part. Before I go further, I’d really like to hear from people who already did this — especially those who:

• Came from the U.S. or Latin America
• Studied at a Canadian college (not university)
• Worked while studying or used a PGWP afterward
• Eventually applied or got PR

 

[Naturgrl]

The only way for PR is being fluent in French, and making sure you only take skilled employment.

 

[OscarDix]

being fluent in French it helps or is a requirement?

 

[Naturgrl]

being fluent in French it helps or is a requirement?

Going to college will not give you PR unless fluent in French. Unless going into healthcare like nursing. To be approved for a study permit you need to justify costs with career progression and pay when you return to country of citizenship. Most come to study and don't get PR.

 

[OscarDix]

Hey, just to clarify for anyone reading — it’s actually not true that you must be fluent in French to get permanent residency (PR) in Canada.
According to the official IRCC website, applicants only need to prove language ability in one official language — English or French. Thousands of international students get PR every year through the Canadian Experience Class or Provincial Nominee Programs using English only.
French can definitely help (it gives you extra points or access to special programs), but it’s not a requirement.
Studying in Canada doesn’t automatically grant PR, but finishing a PGWP-eligible program, working in Canada for at least a year, and then applying under Express Entry or a PNP is a valid and common path to PR — even for English-only speakers.

 

[Naturgrl]

Hey, just to clarify for anyone reading — it’s actually not true that you must be fluent in French to get permanent residency (PR) in Canada.
According to the official IRCC website, applicants only need to prove language ability in one official language — English or French. Thousands of international students get PR every year through the Canadian Experience Class or Provincial Nominee Programs using English only.
French can definitely help (it gives you extra points or access to special programs), but it’s not a requirement.
Studying in Canada doesn’t automatically grant PR, but finishing a PGWP-eligible program, working in Canada for at least a year, and then applying under Express Entry or a PNP is a valid and common path to PR — even for English-only speakers.

Immigration numbers have been cut drastically. Getting a PGWP for only a year will not give you PR unless fluent in French. PNP are also cut by 50% with certain NOCs being selected with a job offer. Do some homework on the immigration plan. International students with Canadian Masters and 3 years of Canadian work experience aren't getting PR unless they know French. Working in Canada for only 1 year will not give you PR.