A Guide to Canada Post-Graduate Work Permit
After graduation, you will be able to work full-time in Canada. A step-by-step guide to the Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) Canada application process and eligibility requirements.
Every year, thousands of international students come to Canada to study at one of its colleges or universities. Many of these students will be eligible for a post-graduate work permit once their studies are completed. PGWP Canada aims to retain students by providing them with the opportunity to work for any Canadian employer in any industry. After completing the study program (and proving written notification of eligibility for a degree, diploma, or certificate), the student has 180 days to apply for a post-graduate work permit.
This guide will explain what a Canada Post Graduate Work Permit is, who is eligible for one, and how to apply for one.
ALSO READ: 5 Ways on How to Get a Work Visa in Canada
What is Post Graduate Work Permit (PGWP)?
A Post Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) is a temporary work permit that allows international graduates to work in Canada after they have completed their studies.
The PGWP is usually valid for 8 to 36 months. It is issued following the completion of a qualifying educational program at a Canadian college or university.
PGWP Canada eligibility requirements
Individuals who meet the following criteria can apply for a PGWP Canada:
PGWP from Inside Canada
The applicant is applying their application within 180 days of completing their education program.
The applicant has obtained a degree, certificate, or diploma from a designated learning institution after completing a minimum of an 8-month program.
Throughout their studies in Canada, the applicant has maintained full-time status.
PGWP from Outside Canada
The applicant has been approved for a study permit.
The applicant has earned a degree, certificate, or diploma from a designated learning institution after completing a program of at least eight months in length.
Throughout their studies, the applicant has maintained full-time student status.
Who cannot apply for a PGWP?
Individuals cannot apply for a post-graduate work permit if their study permit has expired for more than 180 calendar days.
They have previously been issued a PGWP.
Have studied French or English as a second language.
Participated in self-improvement or general interest programs
and completed their studies at a non-Canadian educational institution in Canada
Post Graduate Work Permit Processing Time
A PGWP can take between 80 and 180 days to process. You could work in Canada while waiting for your PGWP if you applied before your student permit expired.
You have 180 days after completing all of your study course requirements in Canada to apply for your PGWP.
If you leave Canada after finishing your education, you can now apply for a PGWP abroad. Previously, applications for post-graduation work permits could only be made from within Canada. Additional evidence may be required if the PGWP application is filed outside of Canada, depending on the visa office processing the application.
PGWP Requirements Canada
Start Working in Canada as a Graduate Student
Obtain the Post-Graduate Work Permit after Completing Your Studies.
Post Graduate Work Permit Checklist
You must provide the documents mentioned in this Post Graduate Work Permit Checklist to apply for the PGWP Canada:
Form IMM 5710 (Extend my stay or Remain in Canada as a Worker)
Form IMM 5476 (Use of a Representative )
Form IMM 5475 (Authority to Release Personal Information to a Designated Individual)
Photocopies of passport pages
Photocopies of Identity Document
Photocopy of current immigration document (if any)
A Final Transcript of Completed Program
A Letter from the institution and/or the formal notice of graduation
Proof of payment
The original letter provided by the institution stating that your intended employment is an essential part of your program of study (for Co-op Workers)
ALSO READ: 9 Simple Steps to become a Permanent Resident in Canada using Express Entry
Post Graduate Work Permit Application Process (Step-By-Step)
The Post Graduate Work Permit Application Process is summarized below:
1. Fill out a Post-Graduate Work Permit Application
Graduates must first apply for a Post-Graduate Work Permit online. Minor errors in an application can result in application rejection for the PGWP. Contact RCICs to avoid any problems with your process.
2. Pay the Application Fee
Applicants must pay a CAD 255 application fee when applying for PGWP online. If your study permit expires before you apply, you may have to pay an additional CAD 350 to reinstate your student status.
Please keep in mind that if you do not apply for PGWP within 90 days of your study permit expiring, you will be forced to leave Canada.
3. Pay the Application Fee
Applicants must pay a CAD 255 fee when applying for PGWP online. If your study permit expires before you apply, you may be required to pay an additional CAD 350 to reinstate your student status.
You must leave Canada if you do not apply for PGWP within 90 days after your study permit expires.
4. Gather the Required Documents
Following that, graduates must gather the documents needed for their application. This includes proof of completion of their studies. This proof can be provided using one of the following documents:
Diploma or degree
5. Submit the Application
Following that, graduates must apply online. Following this step, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) may request that the applicant submit additional documents.
Within Canada, successful applicants will be issued a Post-Graduate Work Permit. Outside of Canada, successful applicants will be issued their PGWP as well as a new visitor visa allowing them to enter the country.
How Silvercloud Travels can help you?
Prospective international students interested in studying in Canada should contact us. We can guide you through every process.
FAQs: Post Graduate Work Permit (PGWP Canada)
These are some frequently asked questions about the post-graduate work permit for international students.
Is it necessary to have a job offer to apply for a Post-Graduate Work Permit?
- Yes. Many international students use the Post-Graduate Work Permit to gain work experience in Canada after graduating. They then use this work experience to apply for permanent residence under the Canadian Experience Class program.
Can I get a post-graduate work permit after studying in Canada for one year?
- You may be eligible for a work permit after 1-year study in Canada if the program is from a designated learning institution.
