Post Graduation Work Permit
PGWP
Post Graduate Work Permit
A Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is a document issued by the government of Canada (IRCC) that allows international students who have graduated from a designated learning institution (DLI) to work in Canada for a specific period of time. The length of the permit is usually based on the length of the study program, with a maximum of three years.
The importance of a PGWP for an international student is that it allows them to gain valuable work experience in Canada, which can help them to establish a career in their field of study. Additionally, it can also provide a pathway to permanent residency in Canada. This is because while they are working in Canada with a valid work permit, they may be eligible to apply for certain immigration programs such as Canadian Experience Class, which is a way to get a Permanent Residency in Canada.
The Value Of Post Graduate Work Permit In Canada
A post-graduate work permit (PGWP) in Canada allows international students who have graduated from a Canadian post-secondary institution to work in Canada for up to three years after completing their studies. This can be beneficial as it allows graduates to gain Canadian work experience, which can help them to qualify for permanent residency in Canada through programs such as the Canadian Experience Class or Provincial Nominee Program. Additionally, having a PGWP can also help graduates to improve their language skills and make professional connections, which can be beneficial for their future careers.
How To Apply Post Graduate Work Permit?
The process to apply for a post-graduate work permit (PGWP) in Canada involves the following steps:
1. Gather required documents: Before applying, you will need to gather all the required documents, including your valid passport, study permit, proof of graduation (such as a diploma or degree certificate), and any other supporting documents that may be required by the government of Canada.
2. Fill out the application form: You will need to fill out the application form for a PGWP, which can be found on the Government of Canada’s website. You will also need to pay the application fee, which is currently $255 CAD for most applicants.
3. Submit your application: You can submit your application online or by mail, depending on the visa office processing your application. If you are applying online, you will also need to provide a digital photo of yourself and pay the application fee online.
4. Wait for a decision: After you submit your application, you will need to wait for a decision. The processing time for a PGWP application is currently 3 months.
5. Biometric: Some applicants will be required to give their biometrics, your fingerprints and a photo, within 30 days of the request.
6. Get your work permit: If your application is approved, you will receive a letter of introduction which you will need to present at a Canadian port of entry. The border services officer will then give you your work permit.
It’s important to keep in mind that the process may differ slightly depending on the specific location where you are applying. It’s also important to ensure that your application is complete and accurate, and that all required documentation is included with your application to avoid any unnecessary delays.
Post Graduate Work Permit Processing Time
The processing time for a post-graduate work permit (PGWP) can vary depending on a number of factors, including the volume of applications being processed and the specific location where the application is being submitted. According to the Government of Canada’s website, the processing time for PGWP applications varies from 60 days to 180 day depends how you apply i.e. by mail or online. However, it may take longer in certain cases.
Some of the causes of delays in processing PGWP applications include:
- Incomplete or inaccurate application forms
- Missing or incomplete supporting documentation
- Processing delays at the specific visa office where the application is being processed
- Background or security checks
- Medical examinations
- Additional documentation requests
- An increased volume of applications
It’s important to ensure that your application is complete and accurate, and that all required documentation is included with your application to avoid any unnecessary delays.
Can You Apply For Post Graduation Work Permit Extension?
Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) cannot be extended under any circumstances. Once the permit expires, you will need to apply for a new work permit if you wish to continue working in Canada.
According to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website, a PGWP is issued for the length of your study program, up to a maximum of three years. Once it expires, it cannot be renewed or extended.
However, if you are eligible and wish to continue working in Canada after your PGWP expires, you may be able to apply for a different type of work permit, such as an open work permit or an employer-specific work permit, depending on your qualifications and job prospects.
It’s important to note that you need to be in Canada and have valid status to apply for a new work permit. It’s also recommended to check the official website of IRCC for the most recent information and to contact the IRCC office if you have any doubts or need assistance with the process.
What Are The Requirement To Get Post Graduate Work Permit?
To be eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) in Canada, you must meet the following requirements:
1. You must have completed a program of study at a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada. A DLI is a school that is authorized by a province or territory to host international students.
2. The program of study must be at least eight months in duration, and it must have led to a diploma, degree, or certificate.
3. You must have held a valid study permit during the course of your studies, and you must apply for the PGWP within 90 days of receiving written confirmation of your program completion.
4. You must have graduated from an eligible program. Language studies and general interest courses are not eligible.
5. You must be able to prove that you have enough money to support yourself and any dependents while you are in Canada, and you must not have a criminal record or pose a security risk.
6. You must be physically present in Canada when you apply for the PGWP and you must have a valid status (study permit, visitor visa, etc.).
It’s always recommended to check the official website of IRCC for the most recent information and to contact the IRCC office if you have any doubts or need assistance with the process.
Post Graduate Work Permit Eligibility
There are certain requirements that international students must meet in order to be eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) after completing their studies in Canada.
Some of the requirements include:
1. Having valid study permit when you apply for the PGWP
2. Having graduated from a designated learning institution (DLI)
3. Applying for the PGWP within 90 days of receiving written confirmation of program completion (such as a transcript or an official letter from the school)
4. Having completed and passed the program of study
In addition to these requirements, there are also some factors that could make an international student ineligible for a PGWP, such as:
1. Having failed to complete the program of study
2. Having been expelled from the school
3. Having engaged in academic misconduct
4. Having previously been issued a PGWP, and the total duration of the previous PGWPs and the current one exceeds the length of the study program.
However, meeting the eligibility criteria is not enough to guarantee the issuance of a PGWP. Canadian immigration authorities have the discretion to approve or deny an application. It is important for students to be aware of the PGWP requirements and to plan accordingly in order to ensure that they will be able to work in Canada after completing their studies.
Note: If you have any doubts or concerns, you should contact immigration authorities or an immigration professional for guidance.
Co-Op Work Permit
A Co-Op Work Permit, on the other hand, is a work permit that is issued to international students who are required to complete a co-op or internship program as part of their studies. This permit allows them to work in Canada while they are completing their studies. The length of a co-op work permit is usually the same as the length of the co-op or internship program.
In summary, a PGWP is for international students who have graduated from a program at a DLI, and allows them to work in Canada for a specified period of time after graduation. A Co-Op Work Permit is for international students who are still completing their studies and require a work placement as a mandatory part of their program to gain work experience.