Is it more practical for an Indian student like me to first apply for a study visa and then pursue PR, rather than applying directly for PR in Canada?

Direct PR and study-first are not two versions of the same journey; they are built around different starting points, and the honest answer depends on how competitive your current profile already is, not on which route sounds faster.

When Direct PR Can Work

• Established profile: if you already have several years of skilled work experience, strong IELTS or CELPIP scores, and recognized education, the Federal Skilled Worker Program under Express Entry is a genuine direct route.
• Competitive ranking: Express Entry invitations depend on your Comprehensive Ranking System score relative to other candidates in that round, so a strong but not exceptional profile can wait a long time without an invitation.

Why Study First Usually Wins for Recent Graduates

• Canadian education and experience: a study permit, followed by an eligible Post-Graduation Work Permit, lets you build the Canadian work history that the Canadian Experience Class rewards.
• Provincial options: Provincial Nominee Programs often favor candidates who already studied or worked in that specific province, an advantage direct PR applicants from India do not have.

This Information Is Also Available On

Canada.ca, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, Express Entry: Federal Skilled Worker Program and Canadian Experience Class guidance.

My Advice

Do not treat a study permit as a guaranteed PR pipeline; it is a pathway that still depends on your Express Entry ranking or a provincial nomination once you finish studying. Before committing to either route, run your current profile through the Express Entry eligibility criteria first. If you are already close to qualifying directly, a costly study program may not be the fastest or cheapest path for you.