POST GRADUATE WORK PERMIT

International students may apply for a post-graduate work permit in Canada to gain work experience and potentially pursue permanent residency. International students who have completed their studies at a designated learning institution may be eligible for a post-graduate work permit (PGWP). This permit allows individuals to gain valuable work experience in Canada and serves as a means for temporary residency. The PGWP provides opportunities for students to extend their stay in the country and contribute to its economy.
International students are eligible for a single post-graduate work permit (PGWP) from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). It is therefore crucial to make the most of this opportunity and utilize the permit to gain valuable work experience and potentially pursue permanent residency.

To determine eligibility for a post-graduate work permit (PGWP), you must meet the following criteria:

• ✓    Reside in Canada with a valid study or work permit, or have a spouse or parent with a valid study or work permit.
• ✓    Have completed a program of study at a Canadian college or university.
• ✓    Possess a temporary resident permit valid for a minimum of six months.
• ✓    Be in the process of having your permanent residency application processed by the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

To be considered for a post-graduate work permit (PGWP), international students must fulfill the following requirements:

• ✓    Have completed a program of study in Canada that is at least eight months in length at an eligible post-secondary institution.
• ✓    The program must result in a degree, diploma, or certificate.
• ✓    Maintain full-time student status in Canada throughout each semester of the program.
• ✓    Provide evidence of program completion, including a transcript and official letter from the institution, to be included in the PGWP application.

It is important to note that there are various types of work permits available, and the eligibility criteria for each may differ. The PGWP specifically caters to international students who have recently completed a program of study in Canada.
The deadline to apply for a post-graduate work permit (PGWP) is 180 days after receiving a transcript.

International students who meet the following criteria are ineligible to apply for a post-graduate work permit (PGWP):

• ✓    Previously received a PGWP.
• ✓    Received funding from Global Affairs Canada (GAC) or participated in GAC-funded programs, such as the Government of Canada Awards Program or the Equal Opportunity Scholarship, Canada-Chile.
• ✓    Participated in the Canada-China Scholars’ Exchange Program or the Organization of American States Fellowships Program.
• ✓    Completed most of their program of study through distance learning.
• ✓    Completed a program of study delivered by a non-Canadian institution located in Canada, regardless of the length of time spent in Canada.