PGWP

Introduction

Many students from across the world pick Canada for their educational journey to benefit from the recognized and friendly learning institutes in a welcoming environment. Before applying to enter Canada as a student, applicants need to ensure they have a valid study permit [study permit FAQ] and will be attending a designated learning institute [FAQ]. Students can apply to change their conditions once they have completed their language program and are enrolled at a DLI. Once they graduate, they can apply for a work permit called the Post-Graduation Work Permit [FAQ]. The Post-Graduation Work Permit allows students who have completed their post-secondary studies to seek work for a specific period of time. Applicants can only receive 1 PGWP in their lifetime.

Explanation

Planning on studying in Canada? Here is all you need to know. First, a study permit is required for studying in Canada. Students will be attending a Designated Learning Institute (DLI), schools approved by a provincial or territorial government to host international students. Students need to attend a DLI with an approved COVID-19 readiness plan [FAQ] This however, does not permit the holder to do off-campus work in Canada and not all DLIs make students eligible for the post-graduation work permit. Graduates from inside Canada can apply for the Post-Graduation Work Permit up to 180 days after getting their degree/diploma, transcript, or official letter from their school. If the study permit expires before receiving a mark, they can either apply for a visitor record to stay longer or leave Canada and apply for a PGWP. A visitor record is a document which allows a visitor to stay longer. To apply for the PGWP from outside Canada, applicants need to be approved for a study permit. People entering Canada require a temporary resident visa (TRV) or an electronic travel authorization (eTA). The eTA is valid for 5 years from the date of the issuance or until the passport expires. If the study permit expires before applying, applicants have up to 90 days to apply for the PGWP AND restore the student status. If applicants do not apply after the 90 days, they must leave Canada. Permanent Residence is required for permanently staying in Canada. The Canadian Experience Class is an immigration program for skilled workers who have Canadian work experience and want to become permanent residents.

Requirement

What is required for obtaining the post-graduation work permit?

  • Hold a valid visa or apply from outside Canada
  • Completed an academic, vocational, or professional training program at a DLI in Canada, at least 8 months in duration
  • Obtain a degree, diploma, or certificate (or leading to one)
  • Maintain full-time student status in Canada
  • Transcript and official letter from the DLI
  • Hold or held a study permit within 180 days of applying

Processing time

About 86 days.

For a specific processing time, please visit the IRCC website

Fees and Expenses

Post-Graduation Work Permit:

$255 ($155 PGWP, $100 Open Work Permit Holder) $350 (restoration fee for expired study permits) *
* Both fees apply to applicants with expired study permits.

Services

Rejection. Refusal. Damage control. These are things you hopefully would not face with hiring an immigration lawyer. Although hiring a lawyer is not required by law, the immigration process is difficult and often confusing. By consulting an immigration lawyer, you can put your mind at ease and let the professionals help you along the journey.

FAQ

Do I need a work permit to work in Canada?
Yes, in most cases a work permit is required. Additionally, an LMIA is may also be required.

Can I work after finishing my program?
No, however you can apply for a post-graduation work permit to become eligible.

What is the post-graduation work permit?
The post-Graduation Work Permit allows students who have completed their post-secondary studies to seek work for a specific period of time.

For how long can I get a post-graduation work permit?
The post-graduation work permit may be valid from 8 months to 3 years depending on the length of the study program.

What is an open work permit?
The post-graduation work permit is an open work permit, meaning individuals can work anywhere in any field in Canada.

I’m currently studying at a DLI, when can I apply for a post-graduation work permit?
Graduates from inside Canada can apply for the Post-Graduation Work Permit up to 180 days after getting their degree/diploma, transcript, or official letter from their school.

Can I still apply for a post-graduation work permit after the study permit is expired?
If the study permit expires before applying, applicants have up to 90 days to apply for the PGWP AND restore the student status. If applicants do not apply after the 90 days, they must leave Canada.

What is the processing fee for the post-graduation work permit?
$255 ($155 PGWP, $100 Open Work Permit Holder) However, if the study permit is expired, an additional $350 restoration fee is also in order.

What is the COVID-19 readiness plan?
This plan is in effect to ensure the health and safety of everyone. A 14-day quarantine plan is necessary regardless of being fully vaccinated. The final decision regarding the 14-day quarantine will be made upon arriving in Canada. Attempting to travel to Canada for a DLI not on the readiness plan may result in being denied boarding the flight or being turned away when applicable.

What are DLIs?
Designated Learning Institutes are schools approved by a provincial or territorial government to host international students. All primary and secondary schools are DLIs.

Does studying at all DLIs lead to a post-graduation work permit?
No, not all DLIs ensure a PGWP issuance. For a list of accepted DLIs, visit the following link

How long does the process take?
The processing time may slightly vary for every applicant. Visit the following link for an accurate estimate

What is a TRV?
A Temporary Resident Visa is a visitor visa placed in the passport to show that the individual has met the requirements for admission to Canada.

What is an eTA?
A: An Electronic Travel Authorization is for foreign individuals with a visa exemption. The eTA is linked electronically to the passport and is valid for 5 years.

How can I know if I can apply for an eTA?
The list of countries with visa-exempt travellers can be found in the following link

Can I travel in/out of Canada with a TRV?
Depends on the TRV. Having a single-entry visa means you will need to get a new single-entry visa to come back. However, you can travel in/out of Canada with a multiple-entry temporary resident visa.

What is the Canadian Experience Class?
The CEC is an immigration program for skilled workers who have Canadian work experience and want to become permanent residents.

What is the Federal Skilled Worker Program?
The FSW program is for skilled workers, who unlike the CEC, have foreign work experience and are planning on becoming permanent residents.