As an international student, deciding where to pursue higher education is a significant choice, influenced by a variety of factors, such as the quality of education, lifestyle, and most importantly, the potential for permanent residency (PR) after graduation. In 2025, Canada and the United Kingdom stand out as top destinations for higher education, with distinct pathways for international students to settle down post-graduation. In this blog, we will explore the Permanent Residency (PR) options in Canada and the Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK, comparing them from an international student’s perspective.
Canada: A Gateway to Permanent Residency (PR)
Canada has long been a popular destination for international students, not only because of its high-quality education system but also due to its student-friendly immigration policies. The pathway from study to Permanent Residency (PR) is one of the key attractions for international students who want to stay in Canada after completing their studies.
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
One of the first steps towards PR in Canada after studying is securing a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). This permit allows international graduates to work in Canada for up to three years, depending on the duration of their study program. The PGWP is highly beneficial because it offers work experience in Canada, which is a significant factor in qualifying for permanent residency.
Express Entry and the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS)
The Express Entry system is Canada’s main immigration pathway for skilled workers, including international graduates. Under this system, candidates are ranked based on the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), which scores applicants on factors such as age, education, work experience, and language proficiency.
For international students, a Canadian degree can provide a significant boost to their CRS score. In addition, Canadian work experience gained through a PGWP can further enhance their chances of qualifying for PR. The Express Entry draws are held regularly, and candidates with the highest CRS scores are invited to apply for permanent residency.
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
Another potential route to PR is through Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). Many provinces in Canada have their own immigration programs tailored for international students. These programs allow graduates from specific provinces to apply for permanent residency if they meet the local labor market needs. Provincial nominations often result in additional CRS points, improving an applicant’s chances of being invited to apply for PR.
Permanent Residency through the Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) is a component of the Express Entry program designed for individuals who have gained skilled work experience in Canada. International students who work in Canada after graduation and meet the required work experience thresholds can apply under the CEC stream and transition to PR.
Conclusion: A Welcoming Pathway for International Students
Canada’s PR process is known for being student-friendly, offering multiple pathways to citizenship. With policies designed to retain international talent, Canada remains one of the most attractive countries for students who wish to settle permanently after their studies. If your goal is to stay and work in Canada after graduation, the country provides an organized, transparent, and supportive system to help you achieve your PR dreams.
UK: Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) and the Path to Settlement
The United Kingdom, with its world-renowned universities, has long been a favorite among international students. While it offers a rich cultural experience and excellent academic opportunities, the pathway to settlement via Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) is a bit more complex and differs from Canada’s PR process.
Graduate Route Visa
The UK offers the Graduate Route visa, which allows international students to stay in the country for two years (or three years for doctoral graduates) after completing a degree at a recognized higher education institution. During this period, graduates can work at any skill level, gain work experience, or even start their own business. While this visa doesn’t directly lead to ILR, it serves as a stepping stone for further immigration options.
Skilled Worker Visa
For students who wish to transition from the Graduate Route to permanent residency, securing a Skilled Worker Visa is often the next step. The UK has a points-based immigration system, and individuals can apply for a Skilled Worker Visa if they have a job offer from an approved sponsor and meet the minimum salary threshold. This visa allows you to live and work in the UK for a set period (typically five years), after which you can apply for ILR, provided you meet the necessary criteria.
Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)
ILR is the UK equivalent of permanent residency and grants you the right to live and work in the UK without time limitations. After holding a Skilled Worker Visa for five years, international graduates can apply for ILR if they meet specific residency and salary requirements. During this period, applicants must also prove their English language proficiency and pass the Life in the UK test, which assesses knowledge of British culture and history.
The transition from a Graduate Visa to a Skilled Worker Visa and eventually to ILR is a gradual process. However, unlike Canada’s Express Entry system, which is more straightforward, the UK’s path to ILR requires careful navigation of the visa system and meeting specific work-related criteria.
Conclusion: A Structured Yet Challenging Path
The UK offers a clear pathway to permanent residency but with more stringent requirements compared to Canada. While the Graduate Route allows flexibility for international students to explore job opportunities, the process of securing a Skilled Worker Visa and eventually applying for ILR can be more competitive. However, for students who are determined to build a career in the UK, it is a structured route with a well-defined goal.
Key Differences: Canada vs. UK for International Students
- PR vs ILR: In Canada, PR is a more accessible and student-friendly process, with multiple pathways such as Express Entry and PNPs. In contrast, the UK offers ILR, but the process is more challenging, requiring a longer time commitment and specific work experience.
- Work Experience: Canada heavily factors Canadian work experience into its immigration system, which is beneficial for international students who choose to stay after their studies. The UK, while offering a Graduate Route, focuses more on job offers and the skilled worker market.
- Flexibility: Canada is known for its flexibility, offering multiple avenues for international students to remain in the country post-graduation, while the UK’s system is more rigid with specific requirements tied to job offers and salaries.
- Processing Time: Canada’s PR process is often quicker, especially through Express Entry, which conducts regular draws. In the UK, the process to ILR takes a minimum of five years on a Skilled Worker Visa.
Final Thoughts: Which Option is Best for You?
Choosing between Canada and the UK for your post-study pathway depends on your personal goals and career aspirations. If your priority is a relatively straightforward and flexible route to permanent residency, Canada is the more appealing option. On the other hand, if you are interested in building a career in a specific sector and are willing to navigate the UK’s more structured system, the UK could be an ideal destination.
Both countries offer excellent opportunities, and as an international student, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons based on your long-term career and residency goals in 2025. Ultimately, the decision will depend on your individual situation, but both Canada and the UK remain top choices for those aiming to study abroad and eventually settle down.
