Best Way to Migrate to Canada: Grad Studies or PR Visa?

If you choose the study permit route, you can pursue graduate studies in Canada, gain Canadian education and work experience, and then apply for permanent residency through programs like the Canadian Experience Class or Provincial Nominee Programs. This path is popular for younger applicants who may not have high work experience but want to build a career in Canada. It requires significant investment in tuition and living costs, but it increases your chances of settling permanently.

If you apply directly for permanent residency through Express Entry or other PR programs, you can move to Canada as a permanent resident without having to study first. This option is suitable for applicants with strong work experience, higher education, good English or French proficiency, and a competitive CRS score. It is generally faster and more cost-effective if you already meet the criteria.

In short, the study visa route is better for those who need Canadian credentials to strengthen their PR profile, while direct PR is better for those already qualified to meet immigration requirements.