What is a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)?
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A post-graduate work permit is a document issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) that allows international students who have recently graduated from a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada to work in the country for a specific time.
This work permit is designed to help international students gain Canadian work experience and potentially transition to permanent residence there.
To be eligible for a post-graduate work permit, individuals must have completed a program of study at a DLI in Canada. They must have maintained valid temporary resident status during their studies.
The length of the work permit is usually based on the length of the study program, with a maximum of three years. For example, if an individual completed a two-year program, their work permit could be valid for up to two years.
Obtaining a post-graduate work permit can be a valuable opportunity for international students as it allows them to gain Canadian work experience, improve their language skills, and potentially transition to permanent residence in the country. It also allows them to continue living and working in Canada after completing their studies.
Benefits of obtaining a post-graduate work permit
After completing a program of study at a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada, there are several benefits to obtaining a post-graduate work permit. These benefits include:
Gaining Canadian work experience: A post-graduate work permit allows international students to work in Canada and gain valuable work experience in their field of study. This can be particularly beneficial for those looking to eventually apply for permanent residence in the country.
Improving language skills: Working in Canada can allow international students to improve their English or French language skills, which can benefit their personal and professional development.
Transitioning to permanent residence: A post-graduate work permit can be a stepping stone to permanent residence in Canada. Many international students who work in Canada on a post-graduate work permit eventually apply for permanent residence through programs such as the Canadian Experience Class.
Continuing to live and work in Canada: Obtaining a post-graduate work permit allows international students to continue living and working in Canada after completing their studies. This can be particularly attractive for those who have enjoyed their time in Canada and would like to continue living and working there.
Overall, a post-graduate work permit can be a valuable opportunity for international students to gain Canadian work experience, improve their language skills, and potentially transition to permanent residence in the country.
Who is eligible for a PGWP?
Completing a post-secondary program in Canada
To be eligible for a post-graduate work permit in Canada, individuals must have completed a program of study at a designated learning institution (DLI). DLIs are educational institutions a provincial or territorial government approves to host international students. DLIs include universities, colleges, and other institutions that offer post-secondary programs.
To be eligible for a post-graduate work permit, individuals must have completed a program of study at a DLI that meets the following requirements:
- It must be at least eight months in duration.
- It must be full-time. Part-time studies do not qualify for a post-graduate work permit.
- It must be completed at a DLI in Canada.
Individuals who have completed a program of study at a DLI in Canada that meets these requirements are eligible to apply for a post-graduate work permit.
It is important to note that not all programs of study at DLIs in Canada will qualify for a post-graduate work permit. Confirming that the program meets the eligibility requirements before applying is important.
In addition to completing a program of study at a DLI in Canada, individuals must also maintain valid temporary resident status during their studies to be eligible for a post-graduate work permit. This includes having a valid study permit and complying with the terms and conditions of their temporary resident status.
Length of study and type of program
To be eligible for a post-graduate work permit in Canada, individuals must have completed a program of study at a designated learning institution (DLI) that meets certain requirements. You must apply for a post-graduate work permit (PGWP) within 90 days of receiving your letter of completion from your designated learning institution (DLI).. One of these requirements is the length of the program.
To be eligible for a post-graduate work permit, the program of study must be at least eight months. This means that programs shorter than eight months, such as certificate or diploma programs less than eight months in length, do not qualify for a post-graduate work permit.
In addition to meeting the minimum length requirement, the program of study must also be full-time. Part-time studies do not qualify for a post-graduate work permit.
The type of program an individual completes at a DLI also determines their eligibility for a post-graduate work permit. Generally, any program of study at a DLI in Canada that meets the minimum length and full-time requirements will qualify for a post-graduate work permit. This includes programs in various fields, such as arts, sciences, business, and more.
It is important to note that not all programs of study at DLIs in Canada will qualify for a post-graduate work permit. Confirming that the program meets the eligibility requirements before applying is important.
Maintaining valid temporary resident status during studies.
To be eligible for a post-graduate work permit in Canada, individuals must have completed a program of study at a designated learning institution (DLI). They must have maintained valid temporary resident status during their studies. This means that individuals must have a valid study permit and comply with the terms and conditions of their temporary resident status.
A study permit is a document issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) that allows individuals to study at a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada. To be eligible for a study permit, individuals must be accepted into a program of study at a DLI. They must meet certain requirements, such as having sufficient financial resources to support themselves during their studies.
It is important to maintain valid temporary resident status while studying in Canada by complying with the terms and conditions of the study permit. This includes remaining enrolled in a full-time program at a DLI, maintaining good academic standing, and not engaging in unauthorized work or study.
If an individual’s temporary resident status expires or they violate the terms and conditions of their study permit, they may no longer be eligible for a post-graduate work permit. Maintaining valid temporary resident status during studies is important to be eligible for a post-graduate work permit after graduation.
Gathering required documents
Individuals must gather several required documents to apply for a post-graduate work permit in Canada. These documents include the following:
- Proof of graduation: This can include a transcript, diploma, or letter from the designated learning institution (DLI) indicating that the individual has completed their program of study.
- Valid passport: Individuals must submit a copy of their valid passport as part of their application.
- Recent passport-style photograph: A recent passport-style photograph must be included with the application.
- Study permit: Individuals must submit a copy of their valid study permit as part of their application.
- Proof of funds: Individuals must provide proof of sufficient financial resources to support themselves during their stay in Canada. This can include a bank statement or a letter from a financial institution.
- Application fee: A fee must be paid to process the application.
It is important to ensure that all required documents are gathered and included with the application to avoid delays in processing. It is also a good idea to make copies of all documents for personal records.
In addition to the required documents, individuals may also need to provide additional documentation depending on their specific circumstances. It is important to review the application requirements carefully and gather all necessary documents before applying.
Submitting an online or paper application
To apply for a post-graduate work permit in Canada, individuals must complete an application and submit it to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). The application can be submitted online or by paper.
To submit an online application, individuals must create an account on the IRCC website and complete the online application form. They will also need to upload digital copies of the required documents, including a copy of their valid passport, a recent passport-style photograph, and proof of graduation. The application fee must also be paid online.
To submit a paper application, individuals must download and complete the form and gather all required documents, including a copy of their valid passport, a recent passport-style photograph, and proof of graduation. The completed application and required documents should be mailed to the IRCC office specified in the application instructions. The application fee must also be paid by cheque or money order.
It is important to carefully review the application requirements and ensure that all necessary documents are included. Incomplete applications may be returned or refused, which can result in delays in processing.
Overall, individuals can choose to submit an online or paper application for a post-graduate work permit, depending on their preference and the availability of the online application system.
How long is the processing time for the PGWP?
The processing time for a post-graduate work permit application in Canada varies depending on the volume of applications received by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and the specific processing office. Processing times can also be affected by factors such as the completeness of the application and any additional documentation that may be required.
It is important to check the IRCC website for the most up-to-date processing times for post-graduate work permit applications. Processing times are typically longer for paper applications than for online applications.
There is a fee for processing a post-graduate work permit application. The fee is currently $155 for most applicants. The fee must be paid online if submitting an online application or by cheque or money order if submitting a paper application.
It is important to ensure that the application fee is paid in full and on time to avoid delays in processing. Keeping a copy of the receipt for personal records is also a good idea.
Overall, the processing time and fees for a post-graduate work permit application in Canada can vary depending on several factors. It is important to check the IRCC website for the most up-to-date information and to ensure that the application is complete and the fee is paid in full.
Length of time a work permit is valid for.
The length of time that a post-graduate work permit is valid in Canada is typically based on the length of the program of study that the individual completed at a designated learning institution (DLI). The work permit is usually valid for the same length as the program of study, with a maximum of three years.
For example, if an individual completed a two-year program of study at a DLI, their work permit would be valid for up to two years. If they completed a one-year program, their work permit would be valid for up to one year.
It is important to note that the length of the work permit is not necessarily the same as the length of time that the individual can work in Canada. The work permit is only valid for the specified period, after which it expires. However, individuals may be able to extend their work permit or apply for a new one if they wish to continue working in Canada.
Overall, the length of time that a post-graduate work permit is valid in Canada is typically based on the program of study that the individual completed at a DLI, with a maximum of three years.
Extension options
Suppose an individual with a post-graduate work permit in Canada wishes to continue working after their work permit expires. In that case, they may be able to extend their work permit or apply for a new one.
To extend a post-graduate work permit, individuals must apply for an extension before their current work permit expires. They must also meet the eligibility requirements for a post-graduate work permit, including completing a program of study at a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada and maintaining valid temporary resident status during their studies.
To apply for an extension, individuals must complete an application and submit it to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). The application can be submitted online or by paper. Required documents include a copy of the individual’s valid passport, a recent passport-style photograph, and proof of graduation. The application fee must also be paid.
If the extension is approved, the individual will receive a new work permit with an updated expiration date. It is important to note that the extension length will depend on the length of the program of study that the individual completed at a DLI, with a maximum of three years.
If an individual cannot extend their work permit, they may be able to apply for a new work permit. This may be possible if the individual meets the eligibility requirements for a new work permit and has a valid reason to continue working in Canada.
Overall, individuals with a post-graduate work permit in Canada may be able to extend their work permit or apply for a new one if they wish to continue working in the country after their current work permit expires.
Conditions of employment
Individuals who hold a post-graduate work permit in Canada are subject to certain conditions of employment. These conditions are designed to ensure that individuals working in Canada on a work permit can gain valuable work experience and contribute to the Canadian economy while protecting the Canadian labour market.
Some of the conditions of employment for individuals with a post-graduate work permit include the following:
Employer-specific work permit: A post-graduate work permit is typically employer-specific, which means that the individual is only authorized to work for the employer listed on the work permit. If the individual wishes to change employers, they must apply for a new work permit.
Work in a specific occupation: A post-graduate work permit may only allow the individual to work in a specific occupation. The individual may only work in the occupation specified on the work permit and may not work in any other occupation.
Work full-time: A post-graduate work permit typically allows the individual to work full-time. Part-time work may not be permitted unless authorized on the work permit.
Compliance with Canadian laws: Individuals with a post-graduate work permit must comply with all Canadian laws, including employment laws while working in Canada.
Overall, individuals with a post-graduate work permit in Canada are subject to certain conditions of employment designed to ensure that they can gain valuable work experience and contribute to the Canadian economy while also protecting the Canadian labour market. It is important to understand and comply with these conditions while working in Canada on a work permit.
Applying for permanent residence
Holding a post-graduate work permit in Canada can be a stepping stone to permanent residence there. Many international students who work in Canada on a post-graduate work permit eventually apply for permanent residence through programs such as the Canadian Experience Class (CEC).
The CEC is a federal immigration program that allows individuals with skilled work experience in Canada to apply for permanent residence. To be eligible for the CEC, individuals must have the following:
Completed a program of study at a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada.
Worked in Canada for at least one year in a skilled occupation (NOC 0, A, or B) on a valid work permit.
Demonstrated a sufficient level of English or French language ability.
If an individual meets these eligibility requirements, they may be able to apply for permanent residence through the CEC. The process typically includes completing an online application form and submitting required documents, such as a copy of the individual’s valid passport and proof of work experience in Canada. The application fee must also be paid.
It is important to note that the CEC is just one of several programs that may be available to individuals who have worked in Canada on a post-graduate work permit and wish to apply for permanent residence. Depending on an individual’s specific circumstances and skills, other programs may be available.
Overall, holding a post-graduate work permit in Canada can be a stepping stone to permanent residence through programs such as the Canadian Experience Class. It is important for individuals to understand their options and carefully review the eligibility requirements for different programs before applying.
Recap of the process for obtaining a post-graduate work permit
The process for apply for your pgwp in Canada involves several steps. These steps include:
Completing a program of study at a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada: To be eligible for a post-graduate work permit, individuals must have completed a program of study at a DLI in Canada that is at least eight months in duration and is full-time although a PGWP can take anywhere from 80 to 180 days to process.
Maintaining valid temporary resident status during studies: To be eligible for a post-graduate work permit, individuals must have maintained valid temporary resident status during their studies in Canada. This includes having a valid study permit and complying with the terms and conditions of their temporary resident status.
Gathering required documents: To apply for a post-graduate work permit, individuals must gather several required documents, including proof of graduation, a valid passport, a recent passport-style photograph, and a copy of their valid study permit. They may also need proof of funds and pay the application fee.
Submitting an online or paper application: After gathering the required documents, individuals must complete an application and submit it to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). The application can be submitted online or by paper, depending on the individual’s preference and the availability of the online system.
Waiting for a decision: Once the application is submitted, it will be processed by IRCC. Processing times can vary depending on the volume of applications received and the specific processing office. It is important to check the IRCC website for the most up-to-date processing times.
Overall, obtaining a post-graduate work permit in Canada involves the following:
- Completing a program of study at a DLI.
- Maintaining valid temporary resident status.
- Gathering required documents.
- Applying.
It is important to carefully review the eligibility requirements and follow the application process to increase the chances of a successful application.
Why you should consider applying for a work permit after completing studies in Canada.
Completing a program of study at a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada is a significant achievement, and many international students may be considering their next steps after graduation. One option worth considering is applying for a post-graduate work permit.
A post-graduate work permit allows individuals who have completed a program of study at a DLI in Canada to work in the country after graduation. This can be a great opportunity for international students to gain valuable work experience and contribute to the Canadian economy.
There are several benefits to obtaining a post-graduate work permit after completing studies in Canada. Some of these benefits include:
The opportunity to work in Canada: A post-graduate work permit allows individuals to work in Canada after graduation, which can be a great way to gain valuable work experience and build a career in the country.
The possibility of applying for permanent residence: Many international students working in Canada on a post-graduate work permit eventually apply through programs such as the Canadian Experience Class. This can be a great opportunity to establish a long-term presence in Canada.
The chance to explore different career options: A post-graduate work permit allows individuals to explore different career options and gain experience in various industries. This can be a great way to find a career path that is right for them.
Overall, obtaining a post-graduate work permit after completing studies in Canada can be a great opportunity for international students to gain valuable work experience, build a career in the country, and explore different career options. It is worth considering for international students looking for their next steps after graduation.
How do I apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit?
How long does it take to get a PGWP?
Can I work while I am applying for the PGWP?
How Long is the Post Graduate Work Permit Program Valid For?
If you will travel or leave Canada after you apply for the PGWP
If you are planning to travel after applying for a post-graduate work permit (PGWP) in Canada, you may use the Canadian mailing address of a trusted friend in your application.
This should be a friend who does not live in student housing, as mail may be returned. Once your work permit is received, ask your friend to send you a digital copy and mail the original to you.
If you apply while inside Canada, keep in mind that the start date of your work permit will typically be the same day it is approved and mailed to the Canadian address on the application form.
If you meet the requirements to work after applying, you can work while waiting for your PGWP after returning to Canada, even if your study permit has expired.
If your temporary resident visa (TRV) expires before you plan to return, you can apply for a TRV online from outside of Canada with a digital copy of your work permit once your PGWP is approved. Be aware that processing times for a TRV outside of Canada may be long and could delay your return to the country.