Are you planning of studying in Canada and kickstarting your career in one of the world’s most welcoming and diverse countries? Canada’s Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is your gateway to gaining valuable work experience and potentially transitioning to permanent residency. Let’s embark on a comprehensive journey from obtaining your student visa to acquiring the coveted PGWP and exploring your pathway to migration.
Below we have outlined the process an international student must take to work after studying in Canada!
Before diving into the PGWP process, the first step is to obtain your Canadian study permit. This permit allows you to study in Canada at a designated learning institution (DLI) and is crucial for your academic journey.
Ensure you have all the necessary documents, including a letter of acceptance from a recognized Canadian institution, sufficient financial resources, and a clean criminal record. With your study permit in hand, you’re ready to embark on your exciting educational adventure.
It is important to choose a program that aligns with your background and meet’s the PGWP requirements. Your choice of study program plays a crucial role in determining your eligibility for a PGWP. To be eligible, your program must be a full-time, post-secondary program with a duration of at least eight months. Ensure that your chosen program is offered by a designated learning institution in Canada, as only studies at DLIs are eligible for a PGWP.
Upon successfully completing your study program, you’re ready to apply for your PGWP. The application must be submitted within 180 days (approximately six months) from the date of completing your program. To qualify, make sure you meet the following criteria:
You must have completed a full-time study program, as part-time studies are not eligible for a PGWP.
Your study permit must be valid at the time of applying for the PGWP.
The length of your PGWP depends on the duration of your study program. Each program of study must meet all PGWPP eligibility requirements and be at least 8 months in length at an eligible Designated Learning Institution.
In cases where a student has transferred between eligible Canadian DLIs, the combined length of study must be at least 8 months to qualify for a post-graduation work permit.
In cases where a student graduated from an eligible DLI after having transferred from an ineligible institution, only time spent at the eligible DLI counts as eligible for post-graduation work permit issuance. Time spent at the eligible institution must be at least 8 months.
If you don’t change your status to a visitor and your study permit expires, you have up to 90 days after your study permit expires to apply for a PGWP and restore your status as a student.
To restore your status as a student, you must (rates are subject to change according to updates by the IRCC, please check official sites before payments)
Do note that in such a situation, you can’t work until your study permit and work permit have been approved. If you don’t apply within 90 days, or if the 90 days have already passed, you will have no choice but to leave Canada.
Once you’ve received your PGWP, it’s time to experience your career in Canada. The PGWP allows you to work in any occupation and change between licensed employers without a specific job offer. This flexibility enables you to gain diverse work experiences and explore different industries while building your Canadian network.
However, we recommend being mindful of your occupation roles as choosing a career related to your field of study will favour your PR eligibility if you are keen on migrating to Canada. You can consult an immigration lawyer when choosing your career prospects to ensure this.
One of the most significant advantages of the PGWP is its potential pathway to permanent residency in Canada. While the PGWP itself is not a direct route to permanent residency, it provides the work experience necessary for certain immigration streams, such as the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) under the Express Entry system.
The CEC is a pathway to permanent residency for individuals with Canadian work experience. With a minimum of one year of skilled work experience gained through your PGWP, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residency through the CEC. This route allows you to build upon the connections and experience you’ve acquired during your PGWP and transition to long-term life in Canada.
Apart from the CEC, Canada offers various immigration programs catering to different backgrounds and qualifications. If the CEC doesn’t align with your circumstances, you can explore other pathways, such as the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) or Family Sponsorship, depending on your eligibility.
The Post-Graduation Work Permit is a significant opportunity for international students to begin their careers and potentially transition to permanent residency in Canada. It paves the way for a fulfilling and prosperous life in one of the world’s most inclusive and diverse countries. As you embark on your PGWP journey, keep your long-term goals in mind, explore various immigration pathways, and make the most of the opportunities Canada has to offer.
Remember, each step of your journey is crucial, so stay informed, plan ahead, and seek professional advice when needed. With determination, hard work, and a strong vision, you can turn your dream of studying and thriving in Canada into a reality.
