Canadian Immigration News

Canada to Accept 1,000 International PhD Students as Permanent Residents

Canada will accept up to 1,000 international PhD students per year as permanent residents, according to the latest news from the Canadian Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism Minister Jason Kenney.

Canada intends to grant permanent residency to 1,000 international PhD students per year through the Federal Skilled Worker Program. In a speech announcing the policy, Minister of State (Science and Technology) Gary Goodyear indicated that "Doctoral graduates play a unique role in the economy. They drive research, encourage innovation and pass on their knowledge through teaching," He also emphasized that the demand for doctoral graduates in Canada was in need.

Many international PhD students will be eligible to apply for a Canadian federal skilled worker visa from November 5, 2011. To qualify, applicants must have completed at least two years of study toward the attainment of their PhD and remain in good academic standing at a recognized Canadian university.

The new policy also expands to international PhD students who have recently graduated from a Canadian PhD program. However, the PhD students must apply within 12 months of their graduation.

Mr. Paul Davidson, President of the Association of Universities and Colleges of Canada, welcomed the new announcement. He stated that this initiative would help to enhance the competitive advantage of Canadian universities and bring the top international talent to pursue their doctoral studies in Canada. International students are estimated to account for one-quarter of the students enrolled in Canadian PhD programs.

Minister Goodyear once indicated the importance of attracting and retaining Canadian immigrants with high levels of skill, which could help the country to be more competitive in the knowledge-based world economy. "With this initiative, we are telling the innovators of tomorrow that Canada is ready to welcome them and their ideas." Mr. Goodyear stated.

If you are interested in Immigration to Canada, contact Migration Expert for information and advice on which visa is best suited to you. You can also try our visa eligibility assessment to see if you are eligible to apply for a visa to Canada.