International students in Canada
Over the past 10 years, Canada has become an attractive destination for students from all around the world. In late 2015, over 356,574 international students were living in Canada, which is a significant increase of 191% compared to 2000. Among these, according to official figures, 120,339 come from China, 48,914 from India, and 20,218 from France. A majority also comes from South Korea, the USA, Saudi Arabia, Nigeria, Brazil, and Japan. International students are choosing Canada over other popular destinations, such as the USA, France, and Australia.
Benefits of studying in Canada
Canada hosts many prestigious universities and colleges, which rank among the best in the world. Canadian higher education institutions provide a wide range of quality programs that translate to a rewarding and prosperous international career from the early graduation days.
Canada's certificates, diplomas, and degrees are recognized worldwide, and are highly valued – especially among The Commonwealth countries. At the same time, tuition fees are lower in Canada than in many other popular student destinations, such as the United Kingdom and the USA. Canada also allows for international students to work during their studies provided they comply with certain criteria – be a full-time student, have a valid study permit, and be enrolled in a university, academic, vocational, or professional training program leading to a certificate, diploma or degree.
Becoming a Canadian citizen
In late 2016, Canada made some changes to the Express Entry program – an electronic immigration selection system. International students will be eligible for the Canadian citizenship after they have spent half of their estimated period of stay in the country, according to a bill that's expected to be voted in the Senate. Such a policy change is expected to help the country that is in need of a qualified and skilled workforce to boost its economy, at times when it faces an aging population crisis.
Latest figures issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada show that the Canadian workforce already comprises a large number of skilled expatriates. The annual growth of the Canadian workforce is expected to rise to 100% by 2027. The international student population grew by 8% between 2015 and 2016, and is expected to rise further thanks to the federal government's multiple efforts to retain qualified students and skilled professionals.
Provinces such as Quebec and British Columbia have their own immigration streams allowing certain types of graduates to qualify for permanent residency, and then citizenship. Thus, candidates for British Columbia's international postgraduate category are not required to hold a job offer in order to apply for permanent residency. Those in Quebec can apply for a Quebec Selection Certificate. Currently, international students in Canada are eligible for a post graduate work permit on completion of their study program.
Leave us a comment: What are your views about the upcoming changes to grant citizenship to international students? Does the prospect of obtaining the Canadian citizenship make Canada a more appealing destination for international students?
