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TR to PR Pathway for STEM Graduates in Canada | Step-by-Step Guide


canada-stem-graduates-tr-to-pr

Last Updated On : February 21 , 2025


Canada is a global leader in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields, offering abundant career opportunities for graduates. With a strong demand for skilled professionals in both the private and government sectors, STEM graduates are well-positioned to build successful careers in Canada.

This blog will guide you through the transitioning from study to work, securing Canadian work experience, and applying for permanent residency (PR) as a STEM graduate.

Canada Permanent Residency Pathway for STEM Graduates

STEM graduates can use the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) to transition from study to work and obtain the required work experience in Canada.

You have to follow these two major steps to apply for Canadian PR:

  1. Getting Canadian Experience
  2. Using Canadian Experience to Apply for PR

Getting Canadian Experience

To transition from study to work, STEM graduates can take advantage of the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) and with PGWP students can obtain required work experience in Canada.

The PGWP is valid for up to 3 years, so you must apply for the express entry pool before completing it.

To qualify for Express Entry, you must have at least one year of skilled work experience in TEER 0,1,2,3,4 or 5.

Using Canadian Experience to Apply for PR

Once you’ve gained Canadian work experience, you can apply for permanent residency through the Express Entry or the Provincial Nominee Program.

Canada Immigration Cost For STEM Graduates

STEM graduates do not need to pay an additional fee to apply for Canadian immigration. The Canada PR Application Fee is the same for all students.

Category Cost (CAD)
Express Entry Application Fee $1,365
Provincial Nominee Program Fee 1,500− 1,500−2,500
Right of Permanent Residence Fee $515

Additional Costs

  • Language Tests: IELTS (300), CELPIP(300) or TEF ($350).
  • Medical Exams: Approximately 200−300.
  • Police Certificates: Varies by country.

Career Opportunities for STEM Graduates in Canada

If you're applying for Canadian permanent residency (PR) after your STEM education, knowing which STEM occupations are in demand across provinces is crucial. This knowledge enhances your application and helps you target regions with better job prospects and quicker immigration routes, like Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).

Canada’s economy heavily relies on STEM fields, which drive innovation, research, and development. STEM graduates are in high demand across various industries, including:

Private Sector Opportunities Government Sector Opportunities
  • Technology: Companies like Shopify, OpenText, and CGI hire software engineers, data scientists, and IT specialists.
  • Engineering: Organizations like SNC-Lavalin and Bombardier seek civil, mechanical, and electrical engineers.
  • Healthcare: Biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies like Apotex and STEMCELL Technologies require researchers and lab technicians.
  • Energy: Renewable energy companies like TransAlta and Brookfield Renewable need engineers and environmental scientists.
  • Research Institutions: Organizations like the National Research Council (NRC) and Canadian Space Agency (CSA) hire STEM professionals for research and development.
  • Public Health: Health Canada and provincial health authorities employ scientists and data analysts.
  • Environmental Protection: Environment and Climate Change Canada recruits professionals for climate research and policy development.

Importance of STEM Fields in Canada’s Economy

STEM fields are critical to Canada’s economic growth and global competitiveness. They contribute to:

  • Innovation: Driving advancements in AI, clean energy, and biotechnology.
  • Job Creation: Providing high-paying jobs and boosting local economies.
  • Global Leadership: Positioning Canada as a leader in research and development.

Before Applying For TR To PR

STEM professionals on a work permit or TR in Canada must understand common immigration pitfalls before applying for PR. Issues like missing documents, low CRS scores, or choosing the wrong program can delay or harm your Express Entry or PNP application.

The Canadian government actively supports STEM education and immigration to address labour shortages and sustain economic growth.

Conclusion

Canada offers excellent opportunities for STEM graduates, including faster Express Entry processing, strong job demand, and access to top innovation hubs, making it a great choice for permanent residency.

You can become a PR in Canada by leveraging the post-graduate work Permit, gaining Canadian work experience, and applying through Express Entry or Provincial Nominee Programs.

Why Choose PAIC as Your Immigration Consultant?

  • Expert Guidance: Our team specializes in STEM immigration pathways.
  • Personalized Support: Whether express entry, study visa or a PNP program, our team will guide you for all immigration programs.
  • Proven Success: We’ve helped countless STEM graduates achieve their Canadian dreams.

FAQs

Yes, you should have gained some work experience during your studies, which would make your profile eligible for the express entry pool. However, a valid job offer can increase your CRS score.
If you've applied for PR and your PGWP is about to expire, you may be eligible for a bridging open work permit (BOWP).
As of December 18, 2024, the Immigration Minister updated the rules to reduce fraudulent activities. A job offer will no longer give additional points in Express Entry.
Express Entry applications typically take 6-8 months, while PNPs may take longer depending on the province.
Yes, you can include your spouse or common-law partner and dependent children in your application.

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