Canada’s Post-Graduation Work Permit: 10 Essential Facts for International Students (Part 1)

As international students reach the culmination of their university or college programs, exploring post-graduation options becomes crucial. One of the most sought-after opportunities in Canada is the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).

Navigating the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) process is crucial for international students aiming to gain work experience and explore opportunities in Canada. This blog post aimed to provide 10 essential facts about the PGWP, covering key eligibility criteria, application procedures, work permit options, and spousal work permit considerations. By understanding these facts, international students can make informed decisions and maximize their post-graduation prospects in Canada. The first five facts will be covered in this article.

1. The Significance of PGWP for Canadian Work Experience

The PGWP plays a vital role in enabling international students to gain valuable professional work experience in Canada. This experience holds immense importance when PGWP holders apply for Canadian immigration programs. Several immigration pathways in Canada reward candidates who have studied and worked in the country. Typically, a PGWP holder requires at least one year of professional work experience in a National Occupational Classification (NOC) code of 0, A, or B to become eligible for various Canadian permanent residence programs.

2. Full-Time Student Status Requirement

To be eligible for the PGWP, it is essential to have maintained full-time student status throughout every academic session of the completed program(s) included in the post-graduation work permit application. The Canadian government temporarily waived this requirement during the COVID-19 pandemic for some international students. Exemptions may apply to those who commenced or will commence a program between spring 2020 and summer 2022, as well as those whose program was already in progress in March 2020.

Other eligibility criteria include:

• Completion of a study program lasting a minimum of eight months at an eligible Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
• The study program must lead to a degree, diploma, or certificate.
• Receipt of a transcript and an official letter from the eligible DLI confirming fulfillment of program requirements.
• Graduation from a public post-secondary institution, a private post-secondary school (in Quebec) following the same rules as public schools in Quebec, or a private secondary or post-secondary school (in Quebec) offering qualifying programs of 900 hours or longer.

3. Non-Renewability of PGWP and Single Application Limit

It is important to note that the PGWP cannot be renewed, and each individual can only apply for one PGWP throughout their lifetime. However, if the PGWP duration is limited by the expiration date of the passport, an extension can be sought upon passport renewal to obtain the full validity period of the PGWP. It is crucial to understand that if an individual decides to return to school after applying for the PGWP, they will not be eligible for a new PGWP for additional programs, and any period of full-time study while working will not count towards Canadian work experience for immigration purposes.

4. Exploring Alternative Work Permits

If an individual’s PGWP is nearing expiration, they can explore alternative work permits, such as open work permits or employer-specific work permits. By meeting the requirements of the desired work permit and applying before the PGWP expires, individuals may be able to maintain their legal status and continue working in Canada.

5. Legal Status and Maintained Status

According to the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA), all foreign nationals authorized to enter Canada possess temporary resident status, with a condition to depart Canada at the end of their authorized period of stay. However, individuals can apply to extend their authorized stay before it expires, and their status as temporary residents is extended by law until a decision is made on their application. During the processing period, individuals are considered to have legal status as temporary residents.

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