What is the meaning of PR (permanent resident) status, and how does it relate to student visas and staying in the country?

Permanent Resident (PR) status means you have the legal right to live and work in a country indefinitely, even though you are not a citizen.

Unlike a student visa, which is temporary and only valid for the length of your studies, PR allows you to stay long-term and access most benefits available to citizens, such as healthcare and education (but usually not voting rights or a passport).

For Indian students, PR is often the next step after studying and working on a post-study work visa (PSW). PR lets you settle permanently, work without restrictions, bring family, and eventually apply for citizenship.