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Post Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

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Post Graduation Work Permit

The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) allows international students who have graduated from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada to gain work experience in the country. The permit is an excellent opportunity for graduates to work full-time in any occupation related to their field of study. The length of the PGWP is determined by the length of the study program, with the possibility of a work permit lasting up to three years. Gaining Canadian work experience through the PGWP is a valuable pathway to permanent residence, as it can help graduates build the required skills and experience for programs like Express Entry.

Key Highlight

About

The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is an important immigration program that allows international students who have completed their studies at eligible Canadian Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) to stay and work in Canada. This permit provides graduates with an opportunity to gain Canadian work experience, which is highly valued by employers and can significantly enhance your career prospects. Additionally, work experience obtained through the PGWP may contribute to your eligibility for permanent residency in Canada. Whether you're looking to jumpstart your career, gain experience in your field, or explore job opportunities in Canada, the PGWP offers a pathway to doing just that. It provides graduates with the flexibility to work full-time in any job, with no restrictions on the employer or type of work, which gives you the freedom to build your career in Canada.

Elgibility

  • Program Completion
    • Must have completed a program of study that is at least eight months long and leads to a degree, diploma, or certificate
  • Designated Learning Institution (DLI):
    • The program must have been completed at a DLI recognized by the Canadian government.
  • Full-Time Student Status
    • Must have maintained full-time student status during each academic session of the program, except for the final academic session.
  • Application Timing
    • Must apply for the PGWP within 180 days of receiving the final transcript or official completion letter from the educational institution.
  • Previous PGWP
    • Individuals are only eligible for a PGWP once; if a PGWP has been previously issued, a new one cannot be obtained.
  • Language Proficiency
    • (Effective November 1, 2024): Graduates must meet specific language proficiency requirements, with Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) 7 for university graduates and CLB 5 for non-university graduates
  • As of November 1, 2024, if your study program has a field of study requirement, you must graduate from a program linked to certain occupations in long-term shortage. The fields of study are divided into 6 broad categories:
    • agriculture and agri-food
    • education
    • health care
    • science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM)
    • trade
    • transport
  • Who doesn’t need to meet the field of study requirements:
    • You submitted your PGWP application before November 1, 2024, regardless of level of study.
    • You graduated from a PGWP-eligible flight school.
    • You applied for a study permit before November 1, 2024.
    • Graduates with bachelor's, master's, or doctoral degrees from eligible institutions are exempt from field-of-study requirements when applying for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) in Canada.

Documents Required

  • Application Forms
    • Completed IMM 5710 form
  • Study Permit
    • A copy of the valid study permit held during studies.
  • Passport
    • A copy of the valid passport used during studies.
  • Photographs
    • Recent passport-sized photos as per specifications.
  • Documents
    • Course completion letters, transcripts, (Mandatory)
    • Certificates(if applicable)
    • Language test results
  • Fees Receipt
    • Proof of payment for the application fees.
  • Additional Documents:
    • Any other documents specified in the application guide or as requested by IRCC.

How To Apply

As for the application process, it starts with gathering all necessary documents and completing the application form. Once the form is filled out, applicants should create or log into their IRCC account, upload the required documents, and submit the application online. Biometrics may be required, and applicants should attend their biometrics appointment if necessary. Upon approval, a PGWP is granted, and applicants can start working in Canada immediately. It is important to follow the IRCC guidelines carefully to avoid delays in processing or complications with the application.

Application Processing Fee

The work permit application requires a fee of CAD $155, with an additional CAD $100 fee for those applying for the open work permit holder. If biometrics are required, there is an additional fee of CAD $85. Applicants should make sure to pay these fees at the time of submission and keep receipts for verification.

Processing Time

The processing time for PGWP applications canvary, with typical processing times ranging from 80 to 160 days, depending on the applicant’s specific case and the volume of applications being processed. To track the status of your application, you can check online through the IRCC portal.

other important FAQs

What should I do if my PGWP application is refused?
If your application for a Post-Graduation Work Permit is refused, you’ll typically receive a detailed explanation of the decision from IRCC. Some common reasons for refusal include: Missing or incomplete documents. Failure to meet eligibility requirements. Application submitted after the 180-day window. If your application is refused, you can either: Appeal the decision: Depending on the reason for refusal, you might be able to request a reconsideration or file an appeal. Reapply: If you believe there was an error in your application or you can provide additional documentation, you may choose to reapply.
What is a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) in Canada?
A Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is an open work permit granted to international students who have completed a program of study at a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada. Work experience acquired through a PGWP may be the key for applicants applying for permanent residency in Canada under programs such as the Express Entry system. The PGWP is valid for the duration of the study program completed, up to a maximum of three years. It is one of the necessary steps for most international graduates to gain Canadian work experience after studies.
Who is eligible to apply for a PGWP in Canada?
To be eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit in Canada, applicants must meet several criteria: Graduation from a DLI: You must have completed a program of at least eight months in duration at a designated learning institution in Canada. Full-time Student: You must have studied full-time during your program, except for the last semester where you may be allowed part-time study. Valid Study Permit: You need to have held a valid study permit when applying for the PGWP. Application Window: The application for the PGWP must be submitted within 180 days (6 months) of receiving the official transcripts or an official letter confirming the completion of your studies.
How long can a PGWP be valid for?
The length of validity of a Post-Graduation Work Permit depends on the length of study completed in an above program. Here's some important information: For programs of 8 months to 2 years: The length of validity of the PGWP shall be the same as the study program (e.g., if your program was 1 year long, then your PGWP will be for 1 year). Programs longer than 2 years: If the study program was longer than 2 years, the PGWP can be issued for a maximum of 3 years. Shorter Programs: If the program is less than 8 months, you are not eligible for a PGWP. Note that, once issued, the length of your PGWP cannot be extended, so be sure to apply for the correct length based on your program.
Can I apply for a PGWP if I studied part-time during my program?
In general, international students must have studied full-time throughout their program to be eligible for a PGWP. However, there are some exceptions: If you studied part-time during the last semester of your program, you may still be eligible for the PGWP. If there were extenuating circumstances (like medical reasons) that prevented you from studying full-time, you may still qualify. It’s always a good idea to consult with a Canadian immigration expert or your institution to clarify your specific case.
What documents are required to apply for a PGWP?
To apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) in Canada, applicants must submit specific documents to ensure their eligibility. The required documents include a valid passport that covers the entire duration of the intended work permit, proof of completion of studies from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada, and the official transcript or completion letter from the educational institution. Applicants must also provide proof of the study permit that was held during their studies in Canada, along with photocopies of immigration documents that show the applicant’s legal status in Canada. Additionally, if applying from within Canada, applicants should submit a letter of recommendation from the educational institution or any other supporting documents related to their program. Applicants must also meet the language proficiency requirements (typically at CLB 7 or higher) to demonstrate their ability to work in Canada. It’s important to apply for the PGWP within 180 days of receiving the final transcript or completion letter.
How can a PGWP help me apply for permanent residency in Canada?
A Post-Graduation Work Permit can be a great tool for getting Canadian work experience, which is often a requirement for applying for permanent residency. The work experience gained while holding a PGWP increases your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score under the Express Entry system. Furthermore, the work experience allows you to apply for provincial nomination programs (PNPs) that may lead to permanent residency. Many Canadian immigration programs prioritize candidates with Canadian work experience, making the PGWP a stepping stone for those planning to live permanently in Canada. experience gained while holding a PGWP increases your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score under the Express Entry system. Furthermore, the work experience allows you to apply for provincial nomination programs (PNPs) that may lead to permanent residency. Many Canadian immigration programs prioritize candidates with Canadian work experience, making the PGWP a stepping stone for those planning to live permanently in Canada.
Can I work for any employer with a PGWP?
Yes, a Post-Graduation Work Permit is an open work permit, which means you can work for any employer in Canada in any field, except for certain restricted occupations (such as those requiring medical or security clearances). You do not need a specific job offer to apply for the PGWP, and you can change employers or job locations during your work permit's validity period. Another great benefit of the PGWP is that it makes graduates flexible; they are able to experience, say, banking and trucking at the same time.
Can I travel outside Canada while holding a PGWP?
Yes, you can travel outside Canada while holding a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). However, there are a few important things to keep in mind: Re-entry into Canada: To re-enter Canada, you will need a valid PGWP and may also need to show proof of your employment in Canada, depending on the circumstances. Ensure that your PGWP is still valid and that you have the necessary travel documents (such as a valid passport and possibly a visa or Electronic Travel Authorization. Work While Outside Canada: If you leave Canada, you can still work for your Canadian employer remotely, as long as your PGWP remains valid. However, your employer should be aware of your location, and you should make sure you comply with any specific work conditions related to your PGWP. Risk of Delays: If you travel outside Canada while holding a PGWP, you may face potential delays or complications upon re-entry. It’s advisable to carefully plan your travel and ensure all documents are in order to avoid disruptions in your ability to return to Canada and continue your work.
How can KGraph immigration assist me in applying for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) in Canada?
Kgraph provides expert guidance to help international graduates successfully apply for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) in Canada.Assessing your eligibility to ensure you meet the specific requirements, such as completing a program at a recognized Canadian post-secondary institution. Our team assists with gathering and correctly preparing all necessary documents, including transcripts and proof of program completion, to ensure your application is complete. We also help you navigate the online application process, ensuring all forms are filled out accurately, reducing the chance of delays or refusals. After submission, we offer continued support, assisting with any follow-up requests or additional information needed from authorities. With our support, you’ll have the best chance of obtaining your PGWP and gaining valuable work experience in Canada after graduation.

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