Post Graduate Work Permit of Canada (PGWP)
What Is the Post Graduate Work Permit in Canada?
The Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) is a program provided by the Canadian government that authorizes international students who have finished a program of study at a designated learning institution in Canada to work in the country for up to three years after graduation. The PGWP is a great opportunity for international students to obtain valuable work experience in Canada and potentially gain permanent residency.
International students must have completed a study program at a recognized Canadian learning institution that lasted at least eight months in order to be eligible for the Post-Graduation Work Permit. The permit is usually issued for the same length as the student’s study program, up to a maximum of three years.
It is essential for international students to apply for the Post-Graduation Work Permit within 180 days of getting written confirmation of completing their program of study and meeting all graduation requirements. The PGWP permits international students to work in any occupation and alter employers without the need for a Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
How Do I Apply for a PGWP?
To apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) in Canada, it is necessary to meet certain eligibility criteria and follow the application process set by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Here are the general steps to apply for a PGWP:
1
Make sure you are eligible
To be eligible for a PGWP, you must have finished a full-time program of study at a designated learning institution in Canada that has been at least eight months. You must also have gotten a transcript and an official letter from the institution verifying that you have met the requirements for completing your program.
2
Collect necessary documents
For your PGWP application, you will need to gather various documents, including your passport, study permit, transcript of records from your educational program, and any additional supporting documentation requested by the IRCC.
3
Apply online
You can apply for a PGWP online via the IRCC website. Create a new account, fill out the application form, and upload all required documents. Pay the application fee and submit your application.
4
Wait for a decision
After submitting your application, IRCC will check your documents and make a decision on your PGWP application. Processing times can differ, so it is necessary to check the IRCC website for updates on processing times.
5
Receive your PGWP
If your application is approved, you will get a work permit that permits you to work in Canada for up to three years. Ensure to adhere to the conditions of your work permit and keep your legal status in Canada while working on your PGWP.
How long Is a Canada Post-Graduation Work Permit Valid?
The length of a Canada Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) can be different based on the length of the study program completed by the international student. Overall, the PGWP is valid for a duration equal to the length of the study program, up to a maximum of three years.
1
PGWP duration for master’s degree
International students who have completed their master’s degree in Canada are often granted a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) for a maximum of three years.
2
PGWP duration for other programs
The duration of a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) in Canada differs based on the length of the academic program completed by the international student.
Programs less than 8 months are not eligible for a PGWP
Programs between 8 months and 2 years are eligible for a PGWP valid for a duration equal to the length of the program.
Programs 2 years or more are eligible for a PGWP valid for up to 3 years.
What Criteria you should follow to be eligible for A Post Graduate Work Permit?
International students who have finished a program of study at a designated learning institution in Canada may be eligible for a Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP). To be eligible for a PGWP, you must follow these criteria:
1
The student must have finished a program of study that was at least eight months in duration and resulted in a degree, diploma, or certificate.
2
The student must have preserved full-time status as a student in Canada during each academic session of the program, except for the final academic session, where part-time status may be authorized.
3
The official letter and transcript from the approved educational institution attesting to the student’s fulfillment of program criteria must have been obtained.
4
The student needs to apply for the PGWP within 180 days of receiving written confirmation of finishing their program of study.
5
The student needs to have a valid study permit when applying for the PGWP.
What will Happen If Your Passport Expires Before Your PGWP Canada After Post Graduate Work Permit?
If your passport expires before your Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) in Canada, it is necessary to renew your passport as soon as possible. Your passport must be valid for the whole duration of your PGWP application and subsequent work permit. Failure to have a valid passport may lead to delays or complications with your PGWP application process.
It is advisable to extend your passport before applying for your PGWP to make sure that you meet all the essential requirements and avoid any problems with your work permit application. In addition, you must provide a copy of your new passport to Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to update your information and make sure that your work permit is issued correctly.
