Along with being one of the most preferred countries for immigrants, Canada has the advantages of a strong economy and a healthcare and education system-it is truly a dreamland for both students and professionals. The Canadian Immigration Express Entry is considered the best option for permanent settlement. Aside from applying for permanent residence, international students and workers require other services such as extension of study permits and work permits to stay in Canada; familiarizing them would ease their immigration experience.
Explain Canada Immigration Express Entry?
Canada Immigration Express Entry is the expedited pathway set up by the Government of Canada to fast-track applications for permanent residence. It is a points system, assessing an applicant on criteria such as:
- Age
- Education
- Work experience
- Language skills (English/French)
- Adaptability
Larger scores in the Comprehensive Ranking System entitled the immigration candidate to get an Invitation to Apply.
Perks of Express Entry
- Faster application processing time (sometimes about 6–12 months).
- Open and merit-based selection system.
- Flexibility to apply under any of the categories, including Federal Skilled Worker, Canadian Experience Class, or Federal Skilled Trades.
- Looked upon as a pathway toward Canadian Permanent Residency or Citizenship.
Extension of Study Permit
Every year, Canada welcomes thousands of international students. But study permits do expire; hence to sustain studying in Canada, the candidate must seek an extension of study permit well before the expiry.
Key Points on Study Permit Extension
- It is best to submit applications at least 30 days before the expiry.
- The student must remain enrolled in a DLI.
- A valid passport and proof of financial stability are required.
- Extension of study permit can be done online through the IRCC portal.
If the permit expires before applying, students may lose legal status and will need to apply for restoration of status, which is more complicated.
Work Permit Extension
Most of the Study permit holders move into Canada through a Post-Graduation Work Permit to get a job. The ones with employer-specific or open work permits could be reaching expiry date. It then becomes a necessity for them to apply for a work permit extension so that they can continue working legally.
Important Details about Work Permit Extension
- Workers should apply before the existing permit expires.
- Documents required include an employment letter, updated passport, and financial proof.
- The normal application is done online through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
A valid work permit extension allows you to work without any interruption and keep you eligible to apply for programs such as the Express Entry.
Link between Express Entry and Permits
- Students: Those who extend their study permits can later qualify for Express Entry through the Canadian Experience Class after gaining skilled work experience.
- Workers: Permit extensions do give the workers more Canadian experience, which increases the CRS score in the check-Entry.
- Bridging Permit: Application in permanent residency by Express Entry would allow an individual to remain legally in Canada on a bridging permit until the decision is made.
Thus, proper handling of study permit and work permit extensions can directly support your Express Entry journey.
Short Important Points
- Express Entry is the fastest route to permanent residency in Canada.
- CRS scores determine selection in the Express Entry pool.
- International students must apply for Extension of study permit before expiry.
- Workers need to file a work permit extension to stay legally employed.
- Bridging open work permits help while waiting for PR approval.
- Any wrong planning will hinder the status and possible immigration applications in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is the normal processing time for the Immigration Express Entry in Canada?
A: Most Express Entry applications will be processed from 6 months up to a year.
Q2: When should you apply to have a study permit extension in Canada?
A: At least 30 days before expiry.
Q3: Can I stay in Canada if my study permit expires?
A: Only if you have had an application for an extension submitted but not yet considered before the expiry of your study permit; if not, Restoration of Status must be applied for.
Q4: How can I apply for work permit extensions within Canada?
A: Apply online using the IRCC portal and upload the supporting documents such as employment letters, passport details, etc.
Conclusion
It provides excellent opportunities for students and skilled workers. A fast and reliable path to permanent residency is afforded by the Canada Immigration Express Entry, with study permit extensions and work permit extensions to ensure the continuity of education and employment. Timely administration of these processes will help applicants stay in Canada legally and will augment the chances of registration and qualification for permanent residency. It is thus feasible for students and workers to transition from temporary permits to permanent residents in Canada with sufficient forethought and timely applications.
