Canada is a premier destination for international students, attracting thousands of aspiring students every year due to its high-quality education system and inclusive immigration policies. Another benefit of studying in Canada is the Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) which allows graduates to work in Canada to gain experience. This article will provide a complete overview of PGWP, including the latest information on eligibility, the application process, recent changes, advantages, and answers to common questions.
What is the post-graduate work permit?
Post Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) is an open work permit that enables graduates of Canadian Designated Learning Institution (DLI) to work in the country for a period of up to 3 years. This work experience is important because, the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) within the Express Entry system, it allows graduates to apply for permanent residency. The PGWP is particularly useful since one does not need a job offer at the time of applying and can work for any employer in the country.
The duration or validity of the PGWP depends on the length of your study program. Programs shorter than eight months do not qualify. Programs longer than eight months but shorter than two years typically result in a PGWP valid for the same length as the study program. Programs of two years or more usually result in a three-year PGWP.
Post-graduate work permit eligibility Canada
To be eligible for a PGWP, you must meet the following requirements:
- Graduation from a DLI: You must have had a study program at a DLI and the study program must have been of a minimum duration of eight months and resulted in a degree, diploma, or certificate.
- Full-time student: You must have been a full-time student in Canada during each term of your study program. Some exceptions are made for those who are part-time during the last academic session.
- Valid study permit: To apply for the PGWP, you must have a valid study permit at the time of application.
- Application timeline: You have to apply for the PGWP within 180 days after receiving your final grades or a written notice from your DLI of program completion.
Who is eligible for a longer PGWP?
Graduates of programs that are at least two years in length at PGWP-eligible designated learning institutions are eligible for a 3-year PGWP. This includes graduates of master’s degree programs, even if the program duration is less than two years.
For master’s degree programs:
Less Than 8 Months: If your program was less than 8 months (or 900 hours for Quebec credentials), you aren’t eligible for a PGWP.
How to apply for a post-graduate work permit in Canada?
The application process for the PGWP involves several steps:
- Gather documents: Gather your degree or diploma, an official letter from your DLI stating that you have completed your program, and your transcript. These documents are important to provide evidence that one qualifies for the program or grant.
- Apply online: You can apply online by visiting the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website. Make sure to submit all the necessary documents and pay the fees, which are now CAD 255.
- Processing time: Processing time for PGWP can differ but it usually takes about 80-180 days. If you applied before your study permit expired, you can work while your application is being processed.
Note: It is important to make sure that all the information provided is correct and comprehensive to prevent such occurrences as delays or rejection. This can lead to a longer processing time for the permit or even its denial due to missing documents or mistakes.
PGPW Canada: Recently updated rules and regulations
The immigration policies of Canada are dynamic, and the country revises them often to address the existing challenges and enhance the stay of international students. Here are some of the recent updates:
- Online learning and COVID-19: As a result of COVID-19, students who completed their programs online from other countries are also allowed to apply for the PGWP. This policy has been extended until August 31, 2023, due to the difficulties that come with travel bans and online classes.
- New extensions: For the year 2022, international graduates with either expiring or expired PGWPs can apply for an 18-month open work permit. This extension gives the individuals more time to accumulate the necessary work experience that is needed for the PR applications.
- Fast-track processing: Certain applicants may be eligible for faster processing through the Student Direct Stream (SDS) for residents of certain countries like China, India, the Philippines, and Vietnam. This is intended to facilitate study permit applications for students from these countries.
Benefits of the post-graduate work permit Canada
The PGWP offers numerous benefits to international graduates:
- Work experience: Gain valuable Canadian work experience that can lead to permanent residency through programs like the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). This work experience is often a critical component of the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score used in the Express Entry system.
- Open work permit: Work for any employer in Canada without the need for a job offer at the time of application. This flexibility allows graduates to explore various career opportunities and sectors.
- Pathway to permanent residency: Use your Canadian work experience to strengthen your Express Entry profile and improve your chances of obtaining permanent residency. Many provinces also offer additional pathways to permanent residency through Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) targeting international graduates.
Challenges and considerations
While the PGWP offers significant advantages, there are also challenges and important considerations to keep in mind:
- Program length: The length of the PGWP is generally equivalent to the length of your study program, up to a maximum of three years. For example, if you completed a one-year program, you might only be eligible for a one-year PGWP.
- Single use: You can only receive the PGWP once, so plan your studies and post-graduation plans accordingly. If you plan to pursue further studies, you may want to ensure they are completed before applying for the PGWP.
- Employment rights: With a PGWP, you have the same employment rights as Canadian citizens, including access to health benefits and workplace protections. However, understanding your rights and responsibilities as a worker in Canada is crucial.
FAQs
1. Can I apply for a PGWP if I studied part-time in my final semester?
Yes, students who attended classes full-time during their program but part-time during their last semester are still qualified for a PGWP.
2. What if my study permit expires before I receive my final marks?
As you wait for your final grades, you should apply for a visitor record to keep your status in Canada. Once you have received your grades, you can apply for the PGWP.
3. Can I travel outside Canada while my PGWP application is being processed?
Yes, however re-entry to Canada is not certain. Make sure your visa or eTA is still valid, and when you re-enter the country, be ready to show proof that you applied for the PGWP.
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