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Canada Post Graduate Work Permit

A post-graduation work permit (PGWP) is an open-ended work permit issued to international students upon completion of their studies in Canada. PGWP holders are free to work as many hours as they want for any employer in Canada. PGWPs are a great way to gain invaluable work experience in Canada and are valid for eight months to three years. Having work experience in Canada opens many doors for a person seeking permanent residence in Canada.

What is Post Graduate Work Permit (PGWP)

After completing an appropriate program at a designated Canadian educational institution, graduate students have the option of obtaining Canadian work experience under the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program. Most University of Toronto graduates abroad are eligible to apply for a PGWP, which lasts a maximum of 3 years and is determined by the scope of the student’s academic program.
As long as you meet the distance learning standards and eligibility requirements, the university views your program as:
  • You should plan one month of work for each month of the program, ranging from eight months to two years.
    • An exception would be intensive graduate programs of 16-23 months (i.e. programs without summer or term breaks), in which case a three-year work visa would be required.
  • You can expect to get a three-year work permit after two years.

Eligibility Criteria For Post Graduate Work Permit Visa

Eligible Criteria To Levels Of Study

If you have completed a degree, diploma, or certificate program at a DLI (such as SAIT) lasting at least eight months, you can apply for PGWP. The program length you complete determines how long your PGWP will be. You must also meet the following requirements:
  • Have maintained your position as a full-time student in Canada for each semester of your degree (except your final semester, which may be part-time, and if you have taken an approved study leave, Take your planned break).
  • Hold a current study permit (or one issued within 180 days before completing your program)*
Important: Your PGWP can only be extended up to the date of your passport. Verify that your passport is valid for the entire period for which you should be eligible.
It is your responsibility as a student to understand and meet all eligibility requirements.
PGWPs can be applied to the following levels and programs of study:
  • Public post-secondary schools, such as colleges, universities, trade/technical schools, or CEGEP in Quebec;
  • Private post-secondary schools that follow the same regulations as public schools (applies only to certain institutions in Quebec);
  • Private secondary or post-secondary schools (in Quebec) that provide qualifying programs of 900 hours or more leading to the certification of specialization Professional (ASP) or diplome d’études professionnels (DEP) or
  • Canadian private schools are legally qualified to award degrees under provincial law, but only to students enrolled in provincially approved degree-granting programs.

How To Apply For Post Graduate Work Permit

Applying for a postgraduate work permit involves various processes and must be followed to ensure your application is accepted:

Submit Required Documents

Submit required paperwork, such as transcripts, proof of program completion, and a copy of your study permit. Organize your files and make sure they are easily accessible.

Submit Your PGWP Application

Use the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website to submit your PGWP application electronically. Fill in all the relevant fields accurately.

Pay The PGWP Application Fee

Depending on how long the work permit is valid, there may be an application charge. For the latest information on fees, make sure you visit the IRCC website.

Biometrics and Medical Examination

You may be asked to undergo a biometric scan and medical examination depending on the terms of your work permit and location.

Wait For Application Processing

PGWP application processing times may vary. It is essential to monitor the status of the online application and send any other files or information that may be required.

Travel and Return Documents

Make sure you have the necessary documents to return to Canada if you plan to leave the country while your application is being processed.

start Working in Canada

As soon as your PGWP is approved, you can work in any area or occupation in Canada.

How Refused Visa Can Help You With a Post Graduate Work Permit

When applying for a postgraduate work permit in Canada, a denied visa may be your best chance. However, don’t lose hope because our knowledgeable staff are experts in helping you with your difficult immigration re-application and navigating the system. With our help, you can use a visa refusal as an opportunity to improve your eligibility and employment prospects in Canada.