Post Graduate
Work Permit
The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is a program in Canada that allows international students who have completed a program of study at a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada to work in the country after graduation. The PGWP is an open work permit, meaning that graduates can work for any employer in Canada and are not restricted to a specific job or location.
Here are some key points about the Post-Graduation Work Permit in Canada:
Eligibility:
You must have completed a full-time program of study at a DLI in Canada that is at least eight months long.
Your program must have led to a degree, diploma, or certificate.
You must have maintained full-time student status during your program of study.
Duration:
The length of the PGWP depends on the length of your program of study. The permit can be issued for a minimum of eight months up to a maximum of three years. The duration of the work permit is determined by the length of the program you completed in Canada.
Application Process: You need to apply for the PGWP within 180 days (six months) of completing your program. To apply, you will need to gather the required documents, including proof of completion of your program, transcripts, and a valid passport. The application is submitted to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Benefits:
The PGWP offers several benefits to international graduates, including the ability to work in Canada for any employer, gain Canadian work experience, and potentially qualify for the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) under the Express Entry system, which can lead to permanent residency.