Launched in 2018, the Student Direct Stream provides faster processing for students applying from China, India, the Philippines, Pakistan, Vietnam, and soon Senegal and Morocco.
The new addition of Senegal and Morocco to the initiative, as of September 9, 2019, will support the Canadian government’s Francophone Immigration Strategy to encourage more Francophone speakers to immigrate to Canada.
Processing times under the Student Direct Stream have been less than three weeks on average, making Canada more competitive in its recruitment of international students.
International students who study and gain work experience in Canada are well-positioned to apply for permanent residence through the Express Entry system, particularly French-speaking candidates, who earn extra points in the system for their language skills.