22/10/2023
or , which is a better choice in Canada 🇨🇦
Whether you should apply for a study permit or a work permit in depends on your specific circumstances, goals and eligibility.
Study Permit:
A study permit is the appropriate choice if your primary goal is to pursue a program of study in Canada, such as a degree, diploma, or certificate program at a Canadian institution. With a study permit, you are authorized to study full-time or part-time at a recognized Canadian educational institution. While studying, you may be eligible to work part-time on or off-campus to help cover your living expenses. After graduation, you can also apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) to gain Canadian work experience. Of course, studying in Canada can be a pathway to permanent residency through various immigration programs, such as the Express Entry system or provincial nomination programs.
Work Permit:
If you have a job offer from a Canadian employer, a work permit may be suitable. This is typically the case for those who want to work in Canada and do not plan to pursue formal studies. There are various types of work permits, including employer-specific permits and open work permits. The type you need depends on your situation, such as whether you have a job offer from a specific employer or you are the spouse of a work permit holder or the spouse of an international student in Canada. A work permit authorizes you to work in Canada for a specific employer or any employer for a specific duration. Depending on the type of work permit and your work experience in Canada, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residency through programs like the Canadian Experience Class (CEC).
In many cases, students who intend to study in Canada apply for a study permit, while those who secure a job offer apply for a work permit. However, there are instances where international students use both permits in sequence, as they can transition from a study permit to a work permit (Post-Graduation Work Permit) after completing their studies.