Post graduation work permit
Post Graduation Work Permit
The post-graduation work permit (PGWP) allows new graduates of post-secondary DLIs (designated learning institution) to remain in Canada and gain work experience. When international students come to Canada to pursue higher education, it is important to plan ahead and prepare yourself for various options.
PGWP is not only beneficial to gain work experience for your future career, it will also help you increase your CRS points if you decide to apply for permanent residence in the future. Now, not all DLIs are eligible for PGWP so it is very important for you to check on the CIC website when you select your post-secondary school and program. If you go to this link (https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/study-canada/study-permit/prepare/designated-learning-institutions-list.html) under “offers PGWP eligible programs” you will see either yes, no, or yes (details). When you select your school, please choose one that is eligible for PGWP, unless you are 100% sure you will not be interested in working in Canada and will be happy to leave upon finishing your studies. If the school you selected has “yes (details)”, this means that only a few specific programs offered at that school will be eligible for PGWP.
In addition to graduating from a DLI school that offers PGWP, you will have to make sure you remained full-time student status the whole entirety of your program. I understand full-time studies may be difficult sometimes depending on your situation, but, if it is any reassurance, you can be a part-time student for the last semester of your program. Although, if possible, I recommend keeping your full-time student status.
When you submit your application, you must include your academic transcripts as well as an official letter to show you have completed your program (diploma/degree/certificate, etc.). Another important aspect to consider is the length of your program. This is because the length of your PGWP will reflect the length of your program.
The program must be a minimum of 8 months to be eligible for PGWP. However, keep in mind that job searching in Canada is a very long process. If you wish to find a full-time job, it may take anywhere from 2 to 6 months depending on your field of interest. Therefore, most international students who would like to get their PGWP will choose a program that is 1 to 2 years in length. If you choose a 2-year program, you will be eligible for a 3-year PGWP. For applicants who would like to eventually apply for permanent residence, I highly recommend getting a 3-year PGWP. Having work experience in Canada as well as education from a DLI will drastically increase your CRS points.
When you apply for your PGWP, pay attention to your passport expiration date. If your passport will expire in 1-year, even if you are eligible for a 3-year PGWP, you will only receive a 1-year PGWP.
To put it simply:
- Choose a program eligible for PGWP
- Remain a full-time student
- Be aware of your Passport’s expiration date and do not wait till the last minute to renew it.
If you are planning to work in Canada after you finish your studies, it may be a good idea to start looking for jobs 1-2 months before you graduate. As mentioned previously, job searching in Canada can be a long process. If you have the time, try and attend social networking events to get to know potential future employers. Building connections is very beneficial in developing your career.
We wish you the best of luck on your path to obtaining a PGWP. If you have any questions or concerns, do not hesitate to reach out to one of our licensed immigration consultants. We are here for you.
Sincerely,
SmartImmigrant (Post Graduation Work Permit)
