2025: Ex-Canada Work Permit Holders Boost Permanent Residents
Canada’s landscape for permanent residency (PR) is evolving, especially in 2025. We’re beginning to see more former temporary foreign workers gaining PR compared to international students, reflecting Ottawa’s changing priorities. This shift is significant for anyone considering a move to Canada, as work experience is becoming increasingly valuable in the eyes of immigration authorities.
How Are Workers Gaining PR Over Students?
Recent data shows a noticeable transition in how new permanent residents arrive in Canada. In 2024, 25,580 former study permit holders made the jump to PR, but in the first half of 2025, that number dropped to 11,175. In contrast, those transitioning from the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) and the International Mobility Program (IMP) are on the rise.
TFWP supports employers in hiring foreign workers when they can’t find suitable candidates locally, while the IMP enables employers to hire specific foreign talent without needing a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), which can add time and complexity to the hiring process.
As study permit approvals tighten and new limits on the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) are implemented, the path for international students to gain PR is becoming more challenging.
The Emphasis on Canadian Work Experience
This shift is particularly visible in the Express Entry draw history for 2025. The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) is back in focus, benefiting those with Canadian work experience. This means if you’ve worked in Canada, your chances of being invited for PR are considerably higher. In contrast, many former students are finding themselves uncompetitive under the new rules.
Changes to the PGWP
Until recently, the PGWP was one of Canada’s most beneficial immigration pathways, allowing graduates to work in Canada for up to three years post-study. However, the rules have changed. New eligibility criteria impose stricter requirements based on the type of program and the institution, limiting extensions and reducing how much the PGWP contributes to Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores in the Express Entry process. This means international students now face a tougher climb toward PR, even if they have Canadian work experience.
A Growing Path for Foreign Workers
Both the TFWP and IMP have shown impressive PR numbers, particularly because many participants have confirmed job offers and in-demand skills. These workers are more market-ready and are being directly rewarded under Canada’s new immigration strategy. The IMP has contributed over 77,000 new PRs just in the first half of 2025.
What This Means for You as a Future Immigrant
- For Foreign Workers: If you’re working in a high-demand sector or have a supportive Canadian employer, your odds of obtaining permanent residency are looking promising.
- For International Students: The route to PR is now more competitive. Choose in-demand programs, gain valuable work experience during your PGWP, and be sure to apply swiftly.
- For Employers: Your role is increasingly important as the focus shifts to candidates with Canadian work experience and job offers.
How to Navigate Your Pathway to PR
If you’re exploring job opportunities from overseas, consider that each listing on our website, VisaJobsCanada.com, includes visa support. This can be particularly helpful in your pursuit of a position that paves the way to permanent residency.
In conclusion, Canada is prioritizing job-ready candidates with tangible Canadian work experience. For those navigating this landscape, understanding these shifts in immigration policy can significantly enhance your PR prospects.
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