Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is a temporary work visa that allows international students who have graduated from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada to stay and work in Canada. This permit provides graduates with valuable Canadian work experience, which may help them qualify for permanent residency through programs like the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) under the Express Entry system. The PGWP is an excellent opportunity for international students to gain work experience in their field of study and establish their career in Canada.

Key Features of the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

  • Work for Any Employer: The PGWP is an open work permit, meaning you can work for any employer in Canada and in any occupation.
  • Validity Based on Study Program: The PGWP is typically valid for the same length as your study program, up to a maximum of 3 years.
  • Pathway to Permanent Residency: Canadian work experience gained under a PGWP helps you qualify for permanent residency through the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) under the Express Entry system.
  • Multiple Entries: You can leave and re-enter Canada as long as your PGWP is valid, and you meet the re-entry requirements.

Eligibility Requirements for the PGWP

To be eligible for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), you must meet the following requirements:

  1. Graduate from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)

You must have completed a program of study at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada that is at least 8 months long and leads to a degree, diploma, or certificate.

  1. Full-Time Student Status

You must have been a full-time student in Canada during every academic session of your study program (exceptions may be made for your final academic session).

  1. Valid Study Permit

You must have held a valid study permit when you completed your study program.

  1. Submit Your Application Within 180 Days

You must apply for the PGWP within 180 days of receiving your final transcript and an official letter of completionfrom your DLI, confirming that you have met all the requirements of your program.

  1. Eligible Study Programs

The study program you completed must:

  • Be at least 8 months long.
  • Lead to a degree, diploma, or certificate.
  • Be completed at an eligible DLI that offers post-graduation work permit-eligible programs.

Length of the Post-Graduation Work Permit

The duration of your PGWP depends on the length of your study program in Canada:

  • 8 months to less than 2 years: You will be eligible for a PGWP that is valid for the same length as your study program (e.g., a 12-month program = a 12-month PGWP).
  • 2 years or more: You will be eligible for a PGWP that is valid for up to 3 years.
  • More than one program: If you complete more than one eligible program, you may combine the length of the programs to obtain a PGWP that is valid for up to 3 years.

Required Documents for the PGWP Application

When applying for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), you must provide several supporting documents to ensure your application is successful:

  1. Proof of Graduation:
    • An official letter from your Designated Learning Institution (DLI) confirming that you have completed your program of study.
    • A copy of your final transcript.
  2. Valid Passport:
    • Your passport must be valid for the entire duration of the PGWP. If your passport expires before your PGWP validity period, you will receive a shorter permit and will need to extend it after renewing your passport.
  3. Study Permit:
    • A copy of your valid study permit that was issued for the duration of your program.
  4. Application Form:
    • Completed Application for a Work Permit Made Outside or Inside Canada (IMM 5710) form.
  5. Proof of Payment:
    • The application fee for the PGWP.
  6. Biometrics (if required):
    • You may be required to provide biometrics (fingerprints and a photo) depending on your nationality.

How to Apply for the PGWP

The application process for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is straightforward, and you can apply online or through a paper application. Below are the steps:

  1. Submit Your Application Online

The easiest and fastest way to apply is through the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website by creating an account and submitting your application online.

  1. Pay the Application Fee

The application fee for the PGWP is CAD 255, which includes the work permit fee (CAD 155) and the open work permit holder fee (CAD 100).

  1. Provide Biometrics (if required)

After submitting your application, you may be asked to provide biometrics at a local visa application center. You will receive instructions on how to complete this step after submitting your application.

  1. Await Decision

Once you submit your application, IRCC will review it, and processing times can vary depending on your location. Most PGWP applications are processed within 80 to 100 days.

  1. Receive Your PGWP

If your application is approved, you will receive your Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), allowing you to start working in Canada.

Transition to Permanent Residency

One of the key benefits of the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is that it provides a pathway to permanent residency through the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), a part of the Express Entry system. Here’s how it works:

  1. Gain Canadian Work Experience:
    • Work for at least 1 year (1,560 hours) in a skilled occupation (National Occupational Classification - NOC 0, A, or B) while holding your PGWP.
  2. Apply for Permanent Residency:
    • Once you have gained enough Canadian work experience, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residency under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC).
  3. Express Entry System:
    • You can enter the Express Entry pool, where you will be ranked based on factors such as your Canadian work experience, age, education, language proficiency, and other criteria. High-ranking candidates receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency.

PGWP Costs

The costs associated with the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) include:

  • Application Fee: CAD 255 (CAD 155 for the work permit fee + CAD 100 for the open work permit holder fee).
  • Biometrics Fee: CAD 85 (if required).
  • Medical Exam and Police Clearance (if required): Fees vary by provider and country.

How We Can Help

At A Square Migration Services, we provide professional guidance and support throughout the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) application process. Our services include:

  • Eligibility Assessment: We help you determine your eligibility for the PGWP based on your study program and institution.
  • Document Preparation: We assist in gathering and preparing all necessary documents, including proof of graduation and other supporting materials.
  • Application Lodgment: We help you submit a complete and accurate application to ensure that your PGWP is processed smoothly and quickly.
  • Permanent Residency Pathway Guidance: We offer ongoing support and advice on how to transition from a PGWP to permanent residency through the Canadian Experience Class (CEC).

Stay and Work in Canada After Graduation with a PGWP

The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is the perfect opportunity for international graduates to gain valuable work experience in Canada, setting the stage for a successful career and future permanent residency. At A Square Migration Services, we are here to help you navigate the PGWP application process and guide you toward your long-term goals in Canada.

Contact us today to start your PGWP application and begin your career journey in Canada!