From Graduation to Career: PGWP Guide
Canada is one of the most popular destinations for international students who are looking for quality education and job opportunities. The country offers a wide range of study programs that are recognized globally and provide students with excellent career prospects. One of the most significant benefits that Canada provides to its international students is the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program.
What is a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)?
A Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is a program that allows international students to work in Canada for up to three years after completing their studies. The permit is designed to help students gain valuable work experience in Canada, which will enhance their chances of becoming permanent residents of Canada. To be eligible for the PGWP, students must have completed a study program of at least eight months from a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada.
Who is eligible for a PGWP?
To be eligible for a PGWP, international students must meet the following criteria:
How to apply for a PGWP?
To apply for a PGWP, international students must follow these steps:
Step 1: Apply for a post-graduation work permit online through the Government of Canada’s official website.
Step 2: Provide all the required documents, including a letter of completion from their institution, their study permit, and their passport.
Step 3: Pay the application fee of CAD 255 online.
Step 4: Submit the application and wait for the processing time.
What are the benefits of a PGWP?
A Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is an excellent opportunity for international students to gain valuable work experience in Canada, which can enhance their chances of becoming permanent residents of Canada. Here are some of the benefits of a PGWP:
FAQs about the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program in Canada:
What is the validity of a PGWP?
If the study program was less than 8 months- You aren’t eligible for a PGWP.
If the study program was at least 8 months, but less than 2 years –
You may get a PGWP that’s valid for up to the same length as your study program.
If your program was 2 years or more –
you may get a PGWP that’s valid for 3 years.
Can I apply for a PGWP if I studied in a program that was less than eight months long?
No, to be eligible for a PGWP, you must have completed a study program of at least eight months from a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada.
Can I work for any employer in Canada with a PGWP?
Yes, you can work for any employer in Canada with a PGWP.
Can I leave Canada and return while holding a PGWP?
Yes, you can leave Canada and return while holding a PGWP, as long as your work permit is still valid.
Can I apply for permanent residency while holding a PGWP?
Yes, you can apply for permanent residency while holding a PGWP. In fact, having Canadian work experience through a PGWP can increase your chances of becoming a permanent resident of Canada.
Can I apply for a PGWP after completing a program from a non-designated institution?
No, you are not eligible for a PGWP if you have completed your program from a non-designated institution.
Can I apply for a PGWP from outside Canada?
If you meet the requirements, you may apply for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP) from inside Canada or from outside of it.
Can I extend my PGWP?
Normally, a PGWP cannot be extended. PGWP holders who wish to prolong their employment in Canada are often required to submit an application for a different kind of work permit as soon as their PGWP expires. For people whose PGWPs were about to expire, prior public policies from 2021 and 2022 offered the chance for an extra work permit.
Foreign nationals who were qualified for the 2022 PGWP facilitative measure and whose PGWP had already expired in 2023 will also be able to apply for an additional 18-month work permit.