Complete Guide: Sault College Technical Programs for PGWP and Permanent Immigration to Canada
Sault College in Ontario, Canada, stands out as a gateway for Brazilians who dream of permanent immigration. With more than 70 technical programs eligible for a post-graduate work visa (PGWP), the institution offers a strategic and accessible path for those seeking to build a new life abroad. Discover how to make your Canadian dream a reality.
Learn about Sault College and its unique opportunities
Sault College is a public higher education institution located in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, being recognized as the province's leading educational institution for student satisfaction. Founded in 1965, the college specializes in technical programs aimed at the labor market, focusing on areas such as health, technology, business, and specialized crafts (trades).
One of the great differentials for Brazilians is that Sault College offers different values for international students, especially when compared to institutions in large centers such as Toronto or Vancouver. The location in a smaller city, with a significantly lower cost of living, allows students to save money while building their future in Canada, taking advantage of programs from Public College in Canada that open doors to employment and immigration opportunities.
Strategic technical programs for the Canadian market
Sault College's programs are carefully designed to meet the demands of the Canadian labor market. Focusing on areas with high employability increases your chances of getting relevant employment after graduation, a crucial factor for the immigration process. Discover the most promising areas:
- Trades (Specialized Trades): Construction Techniques, Mechanical Techniques, Motive Power and Welding Techniques
- Negócios: Supply Chain Management and Health Care Leadership
- Cheers: Practical Nursing, Personal Support Worker and Occupational Therapist
- Environment: Natural Environmental Technician
- Education/Social: Early Childhood Education and Social Service Worker
- Tech: Computer Programming, Cybersecurity, Health Informatics and Graphic Design
All of these programs are eligible for PGWP, allowing you to work legally in Canada for up to 3 years after completing the course, depending on the length of the program chosen.
The PGWP as a gateway to permanent immigration
The Postgraduate Work Visa (PGWP) is a fundamental part of the Canadian immigration strategy. Learn how to take advantage of this benefit to maximize your chances:
- Eligibility: All of Sault College's more than 70 technical programs qualify graduates for the PGWP, allowing them to work legally in Canada for a period commensurate with the length of the course.
- Canadian experience: During the PGWP term, you gain valuable “Canadian experience” that is highly scored in permanent immigration programs.
- Competitive salary: In Ontario, the minimum wage is CAD 17.20 per hour (2025), allowing for a comfortable standard of living as you build your path to permanent residence.
- Professional networking: Postgraduate work allows you to build professional connections that can result in permanent job offers, facilitating the immigration process.
- Cultural adaptation: This period provides time to familiarize yourself with Canadian culture, improve your English, and integrate with the local community.
Pathways to permanent immigration through the OINP
The Ontario Immigrant Nomination Program (OINP) represents one of the most promising avenues for Sault College graduates. This program allows the province of Ontario to select candidates for permanent immigration based on their abilities and potential contribution to the local economy.
The “Employer Job Offer: International Student” flow is especially relevant for Sault College graduates. This path was created for international students recently graduated from Ontario educational institutions who have a valid job offer in the province. The process involves registering an Expression of Interest (EOI) and, if invited, applying for the provincial nomination.
To increase your chances of success, it is recommended to focus on programs in areas with a shortage of professionals, such as health (which represents 20% of the Sault industry) and specialized crafts (also 20% of the local industry), significantly increasing your hiring prospects after graduation.
Immigration Program for Rural Communities (RCIP)
The Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP) represents an extraordinary opportunity for Sault College graduates who wish to establish roots in Canada. This program, launched in 2024 and consolidated in 2025, replaces the old RNIP and aims to attract skilled workers to rural communities, including Sault Ste. Marie, one of 18 participating communities in Canada.
The RCIP offers a direct path to permanent residence for workers with job offers in designated occupations, helping to fill local labor gaps. For Sault College graduates, the PGWP serves as a perfect bridge, allowing them to work in the region and apply for the RCIP when they meet the necessary criteria.
The city of Sault Ste. Marie, with its diversified economy and growing need for qualified professionals, offers an ideal environment for those seeking this immigration path. The proximity to companies such as Tenaris, Algoma Steel, Heliene and institutions such as the Sault Area Hospital creates a receptive job market for graduates in technical areas.
Life in Sault Ste. Marie
In addition to academic and professional opportunities, Sault Ste. Marie offers an exceptional quality of life. Known as “The Soo” by locals, the city provides a perfect balance between urban amenities and lush nature, ideal for those seeking Study and Work in Canada in a welcoming environment.
The city is a paradise for nature lovers, with parks, nature reserves, and year-round outdoor activities. In summer, you can enjoy the beaches of the Great Lakes and take part in the lively summer festivals. In winter, the Searchmont ski resort and winter festivals guarantee fun even in the coldest months. The famous Agawa Train Tour offers a unique experience to discover the stunning Canadian landscape.
The sense of community is another differential that makes it easier for international students to adapt. With a population of approximately 78,000, the city is large enough to provide all necessary amenities, but small enough to cultivate a welcoming and safe environment.
Be Easy
Be Easy is committed to making your Canadian dream a reality through Sault College. Our specialized team offers personalized guidance from choosing the ideal program to the permanent immigration process. With full support in Portuguese, documentation, preparation for visa interviews, and guidance on the best immigration strategies, we ensure that your journey to Canada is as smooth as it is successful. Get in touch today!
