Post Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

Canada is a popular destination for international students seeking to further their education and gain valuable work experience. The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program is a key pathway for international students to gain Canadian work experience after completing their studies. In this article, we will explore the details of the PGWP program in Canada and its benefits for international students.

 

What is the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program?

 

The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program is a work permit that allows international students who have graduated from a Canadian post-secondary institution to work in Canada after completing their studies. The PGWP is an open work permit, which means that the permit holder can work for any employer in Canada, without the need for a job offer.

 

The PGWP program is designed to provide international students with the opportunity to gain Canadian work experience in their field of study. This work experience can be valuable for those seeking to apply for permanent residence in Canada through various immigration programs, such as the Express Entry system.

Who is eligible for the PGWP program?

 

To be eligible for the PGWP program, international students must meet the following requirements:

 

Completed a full-time program of study of at least eight months in duration at a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada.

 

Completed and passed the program of study.

 

Maintained full-time status as a student during every academic session of the program of study.

 

Graduated from a Canadian post-secondary institution that is designated by the government of Canada to host international students.

 

Applied for a PGWP within 180 days of receiving written confirmation of completing the academic requirements of the program of study.

 

It's important to note that there are specific requirements and deadlines for the PGWP program, so it's recommended to consult with the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website or a qualified immigration professional for more information.

 

How long is the PGWP valid for?

 

The length of the PGWP is dependent on the length of the international student's program of study in Canada. The PGWP can be issued for a duration of up to three years.

 

For example, if the international student completed a program of study that was less than two years in duration, the PGWP will be valid for a duration equal to the length of the program of study. If the program of study was more than two years but less than three years in duration, the PGWP will be valid for a duration of three years.

 

It's important to note that the length of the PGWP is determined at the time of the application and cannot be extended beyond its initial duration.

 

What are the benefits of the PGWP program?

 

The PGWP program provides several benefits for international students, including:

 

Work experience in Canada: The PGWP program provides international students with the opportunity to gain Canadian work experience in their field of study. This work experience can be valuable for those seeking to apply for permanent residence in Canada through various immigration programs, such as the Express Entry system.

 

Open work permit: The PGWP is an open work permit, which means that the permit holder can work for any employer in Canada, without the need for a job offer.

 

No Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) required: The LMIA is a document that confirms that there is a need for a foreign worker to fill a job in Canada. The PGWP program does not require a LMIA, which can simplify the process for international students seeking to work in Canada.

 

Opportunities for permanent residence: The Canadian government has several immigration programs that prioritize individuals with Canadian work experience. The PGWP program provides international students with the opportunity to gain this work experience, which can be beneficial for applying for permanent residence in Canada.

How to apply for the PGWP Canada?

To apply for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program in Canada, international students must follow the steps outlined below:

 

Step 1: Check eligibility

 

The first step is to check if you meet the eligibility requirements for the PGWP program. As mentioned earlier, to be eligible for the PGWP, international students must have completed a full-time program of study of at least eight months in duration at a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada. They must have also completed and passed the program of study, maintained full-time status as a student during every academic session of the program of study, and graduated from a Canadian post-secondary institution that is designated by the government of Canada to host international students.

 

Step 2: Gather the required documents.

 

Once you have confirmed your eligibility for the PGWP program, the next step is to gather all the required documents. The following documents are typically required for a PGWP application:

•  A valid passport
•  A copy of your study permit 
• An official letter from your educational institution confirming that you have met the academic requirements to complete your program of study. 
• A transcript or official record of your grades 
• Proof of payment of tuition fees 
• A passport-sized photograph 
• A completed application form.

Additional documents may be required depending on your specific situation. It's recommended to check the IRCC website or consult with a qualified immigration professional to ensure you have all the required documents.

 

Step 3: Submit the application.

 

The next step is to submit your application for the PGWP. This can be done online through the IRCC website or by mail. When submitting your application, be sure to include all the required documents and pay the application fee.

 

Step 4: Wait for the processing.

 

After submitting your application, you will need to wait for it to be processed by IRCC. The processing time can vary depending on the volume of applications being received and other factors. It's recommended to check the IRCC website for current processing times.

 

Step 5: Receive the decision.

 

Once your application has been processed, you will receive a decision from IRCC. If approved, you will receive your PGWP, which will outline the duration of the permit and any conditions that apply. If your application is refused, you may be able to appeal the decision or reapply with additional information.