What is Post Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)?
The post graduation work permit is an open permit that allows international students who have completed their program at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada to work full time in Canada up to three years after graduation.
PGWP is an important part of life of international students to gain Canadian work experience and reap the benefits of investments they have done in Canadian education. It also leads them to Canadian permanent residency (PR).
Who is Eligible for PGWP?
To be eligible for a PGWP in Canada you must be:
- Complete a full time program of at least 8 months in duration
- you maintained full-time status as a student in Canada during each semester of your study program. You may study part-time during your final semester.
- Graduate from a PGWP eligible Designated Learning Institution
- Graduate from a PGWP eligible program
- you apply for your PGWP within 180 days of confirmation that you completed your program of study
- your study permit was valid at some point during the 180 days after you graduated and before you submitted your PGWP application
How to Apply for PGWP: Step by Step Guide
Step 1: Get your financial transcripts and Graduation Letter
These documents are essential and must confirm that you’ve met the requirements of your program. You will get these documents in your student id portal. You can contact your college administration for these documents.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
- Valid Passport
- Completion Letter
- Transcripts
- Digital Photo
- Valid English Test
- Valid Immigration Medical ( if you want to work in healthcare, childcare and agriculture sector)
If you have shorter passport validity than your PGWP duration you can extend your PGWP with new Passport for the remaining PGWP duration. You can extend your passport in Canada at your country’s embassy or consulate.
You must attach all the transcripts for semesters you have attended in Canada. From the start of your entry in Canada.
Step 3: Apply Online through IRCC Portal
Login to your GC Key account, upload the documents , the application form and pay the application fees.
The application fees for PGWP is $255. You don’t need to pay for biometrics again as they are valid for 10 years.
What is PGWP Processing Time ?
The current work permit processing time on July 17 20205 is at 181 days. You can check the updated processing time on IRCC website.
Can you work while waiting for PGWP?
Yes , you can work full time means unlimited hours on implied status while you wait for PGWP. The condition is that you held valid study permit at the time of application.
What is the Validity of PGWP?
International students who study for one year are eligible for PGWP of 1 year but if you study for 2 years then you are eligible for up to 3 years of PGWP.
You can complete 1 plus 1 program in PGWP eligible DLIs and become eligible for 3 years of PGWP. Many international students complete two one year programs in Canada.
PGWP to Permanent Residency(PR)
One of the biggest advantage of Post Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is it helps international graduates to gain Canadian work experience, which is essential in many PR programs, such as:
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC) via Express Entry
- Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
- Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
- Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP)
Work experience gained under implied status is also counted towards eligibility of PR programs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About PGWP
Question: Can I get PGWP after 1-year course in Canada?
Yes, as long as the program is at least 8 months and states one year PGWP eligible program and offered by a PGWP eligible DLI. You’ll typically get a 1-year PGWP.
Question: Can I extend my PGWP?
No, You can’t extend it. However, you may :
- Apply for a bridging open work permit(BOWP) if you have applied for PR application
- Apply for LMIA based work permits if you are eligible
- Apply for employer specific closed work permit if you got work permit support letter from the province. You get this after your PNP is approved and province supports you to continue working un-till you get your PR.
Question: Do I need a job offer to get PGWP?
No. PGWP is open work permit thus no job offer is needed.
Question: Can I apply for PGWP from outside Canada?
Yes, but you must have met all eligibility requirements while in Canada, and ensure you apply within 180 days of program completion.
Question: Can my spouse get a work permit if I have PGWP?
Yes, if you meet the conditions of SOWP then your spouse can get open work permit.
Why PGWP Is a Golden Opportunity
The PGWP allow students to:
- Build Canadian Work Experience
- Earn and learn while exploring PR options
- Transition to permanent residency faster than other applicants
If you still have any question you can reach us out at canadaupdatescollaboration@gmail.com