Learn about the Post-Graduation Work Permit process and how it can support your student-to-Permanent Resident (PR) journey.

You’re sitting at your desk, browsing through a handful of options and information for you to study in Canada. The more you dive into it, the more questions pop up in your mind. What happens after I graduate? Will I even get work after? Will this help me migrate? How easy is the process? AGHHHGGH!

Good thing the Canadian Government has the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program. This program lets international students like you stay in Canada and work after you graduate, and reinforce your points when applying for PR.

What is a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)?

PGWP gives international students who graduated from a Canadian Designated Learning Institution (DLI) an opportunity to gain work experience in Canada. PGWP is a type of Open Work Permit, which means you can work anywhere in Canada for any employer.

International Students use PGWP to build up their resume with Canadian Work Experience, which could help them secure better jobs and increase their points for their Permanent Residency application.

PGWP validity can be from eight months to three years depending on the length of your program (see table below for reference).

How to Apply and Get your PGWP?

After finishing your program, your school will provide you with your 1) degree or diploma, 2) official letter of completion, and 3) official transcript (or copy of a transcript from the school website).

Applying for PGWP requires one of the three proof of completion documents mentioned above. You have 180 days after receiving proof of completion to apply for PGWP, but it is advisable to submit your application as early as you can.

It is advisable to apply for PGWP online for faster processing. It also helps you keep track of your submission and send any additional documentation that may be asked by the reviewing officer.

Here is the checklist for the PGWP application: 

• Duly accomplished application form (IMM 5710)
• Copy of passport pages
• Copy of travel or identity document
• Proof of program completion (transcript, official letter from school, or diploma/degree)
• Proof of payment – Total of $255 to apply & process your PGWP

   Where to Start?

It is crucial that you create a solid study plan and clear goals on your study abroad journey. There are hundreds of schools and programs to choose from and we know that it could be overwhelming. That is where Global Study Guide and our network of trusted higher education consultants can step in and help you out. We know the struggle as we were once international students like yourself!

Global Study Guide can help you craft your study plan, support you in choosing your target program that is PGWP-eligible, share key information on study abroad and immigration pathways through one of our free webinars, and present you information about international student life in our blogs and articles.

Reach out to us by sending a comment in this article or by attending one of our upcoming webinars in the E-Lead series.

Reference:

[1] Work in Canada after you graduate: About the post-graduation work permit