The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is an open work permit that allows international students who graduate from a participating Canadian post-secondary institution to work in Canada for up to three years upon graduation.
Apart from offering an opportunity to gain valuable experience for career advancement; the PGWP also allows students become eligible to apply for permanent resident under various federal and provincial immigration programs such as the Canadian Experience Class.
Since it is an open work permit, the holder can work for any employer in anywhere in Canada.
Process to Apply For a PGWP
Applicants have 180 days after they get their final marks to apply for a PGWP. However, in order to be eligible to apply for a PGWP, applicant’s study permit must have been valid at some point during the last 180 days.
To qualify and obtain a PGWP, applicant must:
- hold valid temporary status or have left Canada;
- have completed an academic, vocational or professional training program (of at least 8 months in duration leading to a degree, diploma or certificate) at an eligible designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada;
- have maintained full-time student status in Canada during each semester of the program(s);
- have received a transcript and an official letter from the eligible DLI confirming that he/she has met the requirements to complete their program of study;
Within 180 days of the date of applying for the PGWP, applicant also needs to meet one of the following criteria:
- Applicant hold a valid study permit, OR
- Applicant held a study permit, OR
- Applicant was authorized to study in Canada without the requirement to obtain a study permit under paragraphs 188(1)(a) and (b) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations.
Work Permit Duration
The length of PGWP depends on the duration of the applicant’s study program in Canada that ranges from a minimum of 8 months to a maximum of 3 years. The work permit is generally valid for a period equivalent to the program of study applicant has completed in Canada.
| Duration Of Study Program | Duration Of Work Permit |
|---|---|
| Less than 8 months | Ineligible |
| Between 8 and 24 months | Valid for up to the same duration as the study program |
| 24 months or longer | Up to 3 years |
| More than 1 program | Can be valid for up to 3 years if more than 1 eligible study program is completed |
Are You a Post Graduate Interested in applying for PGWP?
If you are a Post Graduate and have immigration questions regarding the Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP), WWICS is here to guide you through the whole process.
Book a FREE consultation with our qualified immigration specialists who can help you with your PGWP application preparation and filling.