From Student to Permanent Resident (PR): Joanna’s PR Journey with Gateway to Canada
- Gateway to Canada
- 5 days ago
- 2 min read
At Gateway to Canada, we take pride in helping international students and skilled workers navigate their pathway to permanent residency in Canada. Today, we share the inspiring story of Joanna, a former teacher from the Philippines who turned her Canadian study experience into a successful PR application in record time.
Joanna’s Background
Joanna came to Canada in May 2023 to pursue a one-year program at Seneca College as an international student. Before moving to Canada, she had been working as a teacher in the Philippines. After completing her studies, Joanna began working as a Special Education Assistant in the York Region. She was determined to achieve her dream of becoming a permanent resident.
Partnering with Gateway to Canada
Recognizing the complexities of the immigration process, Joanna chose Gateway to Canada to handle her PR application. Our team carefully reviewed her profile and helped her strategize the best pathway forward. With her education, professional background, and Canadian work experience, she was well-positioned to apply through the Express Entry system.
Category-Based Selection
On April 30, 2025, we submitted Joanna’s Expression of Interest (EOI). Under the Category-Based Selection stream of the Express Entry system, she was selected the very next day and received her Invitation to Apply (ITA). From there, her PR journey moved quickly and smoothly.
From International Student to PR - Joanna's Timeline
Here’s how her application unfolded:
August 2023 - Started the program at Seneca College
April 2024 - Completed the program
May 2024 - Submitted PGWP application
April 2025 - Submitted Expression of Interest via Express Entry System
May 1, 2025 – ITA Received
June 10, 2025 – Application Submitted & AOR Issued
July 7, 2025 – Biometric Instruction Letter (BIL) Issued
July 8, 2025 – Medical Passed
July 11, 2025 – Biometrics Completed
July 14, 2025 – Final Decision Made
July 22, 2025 – Portal 1 Access Received
August 14, 2025 – Portal 2 Access Received
August 21, 2025 – eCOPR Issued
A Success Story Worth Celebrating
From study permit to permanent resident, Joanna’s journey highlights how Canada’s Category-Based Selection stream opens doors for skilled workers in priority fields — and how proper planning, guidance, and determination can lead to success.
At Gateway to Canada, we are committed to supporting more clients like Joanna in turning their Canadian dreams into reality.
