The Ultimate Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Guide
Are you a recent graduate looking for ways to stay in Canada or you’re just researching your options in your study abroad journey? Today, we're diving deep into the world of the Post-Graduation Work Permit – a valuable option for international graduates looking to gain work experience and potentially pave the way toward permanent residency. In this blog post, I'll be your guide through all things PGWP-related. From understanding eligibility criteria and the duration of the permit to discovering the application process and more, I've got you covered. You won't need to fret about any uncertainties, as we'll walk you through the entire journey, making it a seamless and stress-free process.
What is PGWP?
A Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is a document that allows international students who have graduated from a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada to work in Canada for up to three years after their graduation. This permit is an excellent opportunity for international students to gain Canadian work experience and potentially qualify for permanent residency in Canada. One thing to remember you can get a PGWP only once in your lifetime! If you get a PGWP but then decided to continue your studies, unfortunately, you will not receive another PGWP. To be eligible for a PGWP, international students must have completed a full-time program at a DLI that is at least 8 months long. The program must lead to a degree, diploma, or certificate. Additionally, students must have maintained full-time status during their studies and have graduated from a DLI within the last 180 days.
Duration of PGWP
One of the key attractions of the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is its flexibility in terms of duration. The PGWP allows international students to work in Canada for a period ranging from eight months to three years following the completion of their studies. This gives graduates the opportunity to gain valuable work experience in their field of study and contribute to the Canadian workforce. If your program was less than eight months, you would not be eligible for a PGWP. If you studied for a year, you’ll get a 1-year PGWP. If you studied for 2 years, you’ll get a 3-year PGWP.
How to apply for PGWP
Applying for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) in Canada requires you to submit several important documents. These documents are essential for immigration officers to assess your eligibility and process your application smoothly. Applying for a PGWP can be done online or by mail. Let's dive into the list of required documents for a successful PGWP application.
Proof of Study Completion. You must provide evidence that you have completed your study program. This can be in the form of a transcript, a letter from your school, or a degree, diploma or certificate. Make sure the document clearly states the program name, completion date, and any other relevant information.
Valid Passport. Your passport must be valid for the entire duration of your PGWP. Ensure that it has enough blank pages for visa stamps and is not damaged in any way. If your passport is about to expire, it's a good idea to renew it before submitting your application.
Application Forms and Fees: You will need to fill out the PGWP application form, which can be found on the Government of Canada website. Additionally, you must pay the required application fees. Keep a receipt of the payment as proof, as you will need to submit it along with your application. Other supporting documents may be required depending on your individual circumstances.
Processing times
The processing time for a PGWP application is typically around 90 days, but it can vary depending on the volume of applications and other factors. As of today, the online processing time is 139 days and the paper one is 15 days. Don’t forget that if your study permit is still valid, you can continue working full-time.
Can I work while I am waiting to receive my post-graduation work permit?
You can work full-time while waiting for a decision on your post-graduation work permit (PGWP) application if, at the time you submitted your application, all of the following apply to your situation:
You had a valid study permit.
You had completed your program of study.
You were eligible to work off campus without a permit.
You did not work off-campus more than 20 hours a week during academic sessions.
PGWP fees
The current fee for a PGWP application is CAD 255, which includes a CAD 100 "Open Work Permit Holder" fee and a CAD 155 "Work Permit" fee. It's important to note that these fees are subject to change, so always check the Government of Canada's Immigration and Citizenship website for the most up-to-date information. Most applicants are also required to provide biometrics (fingerprints and a photograph) as part of their application. The cost for this service is CAD 85. However, if you've already submitted your biometrics for a previous study or work permit, you may not need to provide them again.
Extending PGWP
Many international students wonder if it's possible to extend their Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) once they've completed their studies in Canada. While it's generally not an option to extend your PGWP, there are some key considerations and alternative pathways to extend your stay in Canada and continue working like applying for PR or asking your employer to get you a closed work permit.
Changing Employers with PGWP
One of the benefits of having a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) in Canada is the flexibility it offers when it comes to changing employers. Unlike other work permits that tie you to a specific employer, the PGWP allows you to switch jobs and explore different career opportunities within the country. With a PGWP, you have the freedom to work for any employer in Canada, in any occupation, and in any location. This means you can explore different industries and roles, allowing you to gain valuable work experience and build connections in your chosen field. It's a great opportunity to find the right fit for your career goals and interests. But don’t forget that you have an expiry date on your PGWP, so if you’re planning to apply for PR, check your options in advance. Just remember to keep track of your employment details, as you may need to provide this information when applying for permanent residency in the future.
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) offers a fantastic opportunity for international students to gain valuable work experience in Canada. By familiarizing yourself with the requirements and application process, you can make the most of this chance to build your career and contribute to the Canadian economy. Remember, preparation is key, so start planning your post-graduation journey today, and make your Canadian dreams a reality!
