Study Healthcare for Canada PR | PSW for Study Visa & PR
Are you planning to study, work, or immigrate to Canada? At Globexa Immigration, we offer expert advice and customized solutions for your Canada immigration needs. From securing a Canada study visa to obtaining a post-graduation work permit (PGWP) and ultimately applying for permanent residency (PR), we provide guidance at every stage.
In today’s blog, we are discussing the Healthcare program for a Canada study visa and whether pursuing a healthcare program will lead to your Permanent Residency (PR) in Canada.
Recently, there’s been a growing interest in healthcare programs, particularly because they are part of Canada’s priority program stream. Many people, from various backgrounds, such as BA, BCom, BSc, BTech, and Architecture, are looking to pursue programs like Personal Support Worker (PSW). It seems like everyone is interested in the same program, despite other options being available in the priority stream.
Healthcare is certainly a priority program, but we shouldn’t overlook other sectors, such as:
- Agriculture
- Education (including Early Childhood Education)
- STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics)
- Skilled Trades (including Construction, Transportation, and technical professions)
Canada offers a variety of options for obtaining PR, and many of these professions are also in demand. However, many people still flock to healthcare programs, particularly PSW and Social Support Worker (SSW), without considering the broader opportunities available.
1.1 The Risk of Overcrowding in Healthcare Professions
As more people pursue the Personal Support Worker program, the job market becomes more competitive. Over time, this could lead to fewer job opportunities. Historically, when there is a surge in demand for a particular program, the system struggles to accommodate everyone. For example, in provinces like New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Nova Scotia, easy PNP (Provincial Nominee Program) options were available, but with so many people pursuing these pathways, the programs were eventually shut down.
We’ve also seen similar trends in Alberta and British Columbia, where healthcare had low PNP cutoff scores in the past, allowing many people to qualify easily. For instance, in British Columbia, the cutoff was once as low as 68 points, and people could obtain a PNP just by securing a job offer. But now, the cutoff has risen to over 120 points, and the job market has become significantly more competitive.
When everyone chases the same program, it’s inevitable that the demand will exceed the supply. We’ve seen this happen with programs like the Alberta Accelerated Tech Pathway and Caregiver Program, which eventually became oversaturated.
1.2 Personal Support Worker and Social Support Worker Programs: What to Consider
Currently, the Personal Support Worker and Social Support Worker programs are among the most popular. Initially, these programs required minimal education and experience, many people could enter the field with just a CPR certification and a brief licensing exam. However, today these programs are demanding more, such as one year of full-time study before offering a job placement. Even after completing the program, you may find it difficult to secure a job.
The problem is that as the demand for PSW increases, employers will be more selective. In the next year or so, many people who graduate from these programs may struggle to find jobs, and without employment, it’s impossible to gain the work experience needed for PR.
1.3 Why You Should Be Cautious About Healthcare Programs
If everyone pursues the same program, such as PSW or SSW, the job market becomes saturated, and the chance of securing a job becomes lower. Many people believe that completing a one-year program will automatically lead to a PG work permit and, eventually, PR. However, this is increasingly risky.
A one-year work permit is no longer enough to secure PR in Canada, no matter the program or profession. The current situation in Canada suggests that you need a longer safety net to improve your chances of gaining PR.
1.4 The Importance of a Longer Study Program for PR
Instead of focusing on one-year programs, consider pursuing a two-year study program. This will allow you to qualify for a three-year PG work permit, which is far more secure and gives you the time needed to gain valuable work experience. This safety net increases your chances of securing PR through the Express Entry system or other pathways.
While healthcare programs like Personal Support Worker are currently in high demand, they come with significant risks. As more and more people rush to pursue these programs, job opportunities will become limited. To ensure a better chance of success, you should consider a two-year program that offers a three-year work permit, which is a much safer option for achieving PR in Canada.
For example, let’s say you’re currently in Ontario with a one-year work permit and have gained six months of work experience. Over time, you might realize that getting PR in this province isn’t looking likely. In this case, you might think about moving to another province to improve your chances of PR.
However, if you only have 8 to 10 months left on your work permit, the next province may require one year of experience to apply for their Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). So where will you get that extra year of experience?
On the other hand, if you have a three-year work permit, you have a strong safety net. For example, after staying in Ontario for six months, you might feel that PR opportunities are limited. With over two and a half years of your work permit remaining, you can move to another province and apply for their PNP program without the stress of running out of time.
1.5 Healthcare Programs: Not the Only Path to PR
Many people pursue healthcare programs like Personal Support Worker (PSW) because they seem like an easy route to PR. However, just completing a program like PSW does not automatically qualify you for PR or a PNP. The competition for PSW jobs is growing, and with so many people pursuing this path, job opportunities may become scarce in the future.
Be cautious! A lot of people are interested in the same program, and the reality is that in one year, job availability may decrease, and PR eligibility through this job profile may become increasingly difficult.
Instead, consider other programs that may offer better prospects for your future.
Exploring Alternative Programs for PR Success
There are many other programs in Canada that can help you qualify for PR, and you don’t need to follow the crowd. Some excellent alternatives include:
1.STEM Programs:
If you are interested in science, technology, engineering, or math, many programs in STEM fields are available. The best part? You don’t need a technical background to pursue them! There are opportunities for people with various educational backgrounds, including arts students with mathematics in their high school curriculum.
2.Trade Programs:
Trade programs can also be an excellent option, especially for individuals who have a background in mathematics. Many people with 12th arts with math can pursue trade programs and still qualify for PR.
3.Transportation and Construction:
Canada is actively seeking professionals in transportation and construction. Explore these options if you want to gain experience and eventually apply for PR.
4.Master’s Degree:
While PG Diplomas are still valuable, Canada is increasingly prioritizing Master’s degrees for PR applications. If you already have a Bachelor’s degree, consider pursuing a Master’s program, as it will likely offer better prospects for PR.
5.Rural Programs:
There are several PR pathways related to rural areas in Canada. Provinces like Alberta and British Columbia have programs for people who complete their studies in rural areas. These programs can also provide a faster route to PR. Keep in mind that rural programs are still running in provinces like Alberta, so consider this option.
6.Ontario:
Though Ontario is known for having a challenging PR process, it also gives out the most PNP invitations. Ontario has an Express Entry-based stream as well as a non-Express Entry-based stream. If you’re studying in Ontario or planning to, you may benefit from the international student stream. If you have a job offer in Ontario, you can get an employer support letter, which can significantly improve your chances of receiving a PNP from Ontario.
1.6 Exploring Ontario’s International Student Stream and PR Pathways
Even if you complete your studies outside of Ontario, you can still qualify for the International Student Stream in Ontario, an excellent option for those looking to secure Permanent Residency (PR). This stream is an outstanding opportunity for international students who meet the specific criteria and secure a job in certain NOC levels.
1.7 Eligibility for the International Student Stream
To be eligible for this stream, the key criteria focus on your job and employer:
- Job Type: You must secure a full-time job that falls under NOC Tier 0, 1, 2, or 3 (mostly NOC B-level jobs or supervisory roles).
- Employer Requirements: Your employer should be a reliable business with a revenue of $1 million per year or, if located outside of the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), the revenue requirement is reduced to $500,000. Additionally, your employer should be willing to support your application.
If you are employed in a technical domain, working at a university or college, or have an employer who meets these criteria, you can qualify for the International Student Stream. This stream provides a great PR pathway even if you completed your studies outside Ontario.
A recent success story involves my friend Tamana, who secured her PNP through this stream. Many people are not aware of this option or think they may not qualify, but in reality, it’s an amazing opportunity.
This stream is a non-Express Entry stream, and cutoffs are generally lower compared to other streams. As a result, even if your CRS score is not very high, you could still qualify for a PNP. There are separate draws for this stream, and not many people are aware of how to apply, which increases your chances of getting selected.
1.8 Ontario Master’s Graduate Stream
This stream is available to those who complete a Master’s degree from any public university in Ontario. It offers a quick pathway to PR, and there are separate draws for this stream as well.
For example, if you complete a Master of Engineering, Master of Computer Science, or an MBA from Laurentian University or any other public university in Ontario, you become eligible for two PR options:
- RNIP (Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot) – which is a permanent program and could soon become more accessible.
- Ontario Master’s Graduate Stream – providing an expedited route to PR.
1.9 Why Ontario Offers Multiple PR Pathways
Ontario is filled with multiple streams that offer easier pathways to Permanent Residency (PR), but many people are either unaware of them or believe they may not be eligible.
These include not only the International Student Stream and Ontario Master’s Graduate Stream but also other PNP options that don’t require a background in healthcare. Whether you’re interested in studying at Laurentian University or another public institution, Ontario offers plenty of opportunities to transition from student to Permanent Resident.
1.10 Do Not Follow the Crowd
The main takeaway from this blog is: “Do not run behind where everyone else is running.” This is particularly true when it comes to choosing immigration pathways. Let’s look at the British Columbia Healthcare Stream as a perfect example.
1.11 A Case Study: The British Columbia Healthcare Stream
When the British Columbia Healthcare Stream was first introduced, the cut-off score for Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) was just 68 points. This was an incredibly low score, which made it easy for many applicants, even those from outside the province, to qualify.
If you look at the historical PNP draws for British Columbia, you’ll notice that the cut-offs were typically 68, 70, or 75 points. There were numerous invitations issued during this time, making it look like a great opportunity for applicants. But now, if you check the current cut-offs for the same stream, they are above 110 points, and sometimes even higher. Even in the general draws, the cut-off has risen from 93 or 95 points to a staggering 145 points.
Wherever people perceive there is an opportunity for PR or PNP, they all start flocking to the same stream, and the result is often the shutting down or tightening
My strong recommendation is not to pursue a healthcare program if you do not have a background in this field. In the near future, you may notice a trend: this program or stream could either be shut down, or you may struggle to find a job even after completing a program like Personal Support Worker (PSW). Instead, explore other streams based on your background. If you have the opportunity, consider pursuing a master’s degree from a public university in Ontario, which can provide you with the best options. Studying in rural areas can also offer more advantages, and gaining experience in these regions can enhance your chances of success. Right now, many people are focused on healthcare programs like Personal Support Worker and Social Support Worker, but this is not recommended, as soon these programs will face limited opportunities, and you may struggle to secure admission. Instead, consider fields such as Early Childhood Education, where fewer people are applying, and these professions will give you more scope for growth. Focusing on less crowded areas of study and professions can ultimately provide you with better benefits and a greater chance of success in securing PR.
At Globexa Immigration, we help you explore the best pathways to Canada’s PR. Contact us today to discuss your options and find the program that best suits your goals.
Stay Tuned for More PR Blogs
I hope you found this blog informative. I will be creating detailed blogs on topics like the International Student Stream and the Ontario Master Graduate Stream, as Ontario offers the most invitations for PNP. These streams provide excellent opportunities for international students and graduates to secure Permanent Residency (PR).
Stay tuned for these upcoming blogs where I’ll dive deep into each of these streams and guide you through the steps to take advantage of these PR pathways.
Thank you so much for reading this blog till the end. See you in the next one!
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