28 May 2024
The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is a big reason why Indian students choose to study in Canada after they finish their bachelor’s degree.
But if you’re already studying in Canada, you might know about one big problem: the PGWP you get after finishing a one-year diploma is short.
This happens because the length of your PGWP is tied to how long your study program is.
So, what can you do about it? How can you make your PGWP last longer?
The answer is simple: you can enrol in another program. It might sound hard, but it’s possible. Let’s see how.
What is PGWP in Canada?
PGWP stands for Post-Graduation Work Permit. It’s a program run by the Canadian government to let international students work in Canada after they finish their studies at certain schools.
With this permit, you can stay and work in the nation once you complete your studies. It requires you to study in Canada for at least 8 months to qualify for this permit. The length of the permit depends on how long your study program is, ranging from 8 months to 3 years. For instance, if your program lasted 9 months, your PGWP could be valid for 9 months.
While PGWP was created to attract and keep skilled workers in Canada, it’s also great for international students. With this permit, you can work for any employer in Canada, do any kind of job, and gain important work experience in the Canadian job market.
How Many Times You Can Opt for PGWP?
One can apply for PGWP only once.
If you plan to continue your education after finishing your first program or if you are considering enrolling in a lengthier degree program in Canada, you might want to apply for your PGWP strategically.
A PGWP with a longer validity term—up to three years—will be awarded to you if you apply after the longest time of study.
PGWP Eligibility in Canada
If you’ve finished your studies at a Canadian school, you can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) within 180 days of graduating.
Just make sure your study permit is still valid during this time to avoid any issues with your PGWP application. When you apply, you’ll need to confirm details about your program, like its name and how long it lasted, and show proof that you completed it. You can do this by providing:
- Your degree or diploma
- Your transcript
- An official letter from your school
In addition to these, you must meet some other requirements for the PGWP:
- You need to have completed your study program at a designated learning institution and fulfilled its requirements.
- You must have been a full-time student throughout your program in Canada.
- You must have applied to extend your study permit in Canada before it expired, even if the application is still being processed.
- Your study permit must have been valid at some point within the last 180 days.
Why Continue Your Study in Canada
No pressure to find a job quickly or leave Canada
Being an international student involves a lot of effort, ambition, and money. From leaving behind your familiar life and starting anew in a foreign country, the journey to success can be tough yet thrilling.
You didn’t travel all this distance and spend so much money on your study to only depart Canada before realizing your dreams. Returning to school for a different program can provide you with the extra time you need to accomplish your goals.
Possibility of improving your credentials and skill set to satisfy Canadian employment market expectations
It takes time for a foreign student to become familiar with the Canadian labour market and the most sought-after professional pathways.
Earn eligibility for a longer PGWP
The length of the PGWP you get depends on how long you studied in Canada. By returning to school, you can get a longer PGWP.
Improve your CRS score to qualify under the Canadian Express Entry process
Every international student has a unique educational and career background. If you came to Canada because of its attractive immigration options, it’s a good idea to work with an immigration lawyer. They can help you see if going back to school to improve your qualifications and skills will give your immigration application extra points.
General Rules Regarding PGWP in Canada
Duration:
Your PGWP can last from 8 months to 3 years. The length depends on how long your study program in Canada is.
Master’s Degree:
If you finish a master’s program that’s longer than 8 months, you can get a 3-year PGWP. But this rule is not meant for certificate or diploma programs.
Passport Validity:
Your PGWP can’t be longer than the expiry date of your passport.
So, make sure your passport is valid for your whole PGWP duration.
(ALSO READ: Top PGWP Mistakes to Avoid.)
How long does it take to get a PGWP?
It usually takes between 80 to 180 days to process a PGWP.
You are permitted to work in Canada during this waiting time, provided that you applied before the expiration of your student permit.
You can apply for your PGWP 180 days after the day you complete all program requirements.
You can still apply for a PGWP from outside of Canada if you depart after completing your studies. Previously, applications could only be made from within Canada.
If you apply from outside Canada, the visa office might ask for extra documents depending on where they process your application.
What are my options if my PGWP is about to expire?
If your PGWP is nearing its expiration date, you have two main options:
Apply for a PGWP extension:
If you’re eligible, you can apply to extend your PGWP, giving you more time to work and explore other immigration options.
Apply for Permanent Residency:
Consider applying for one of the permanent residency programs. This could provide you with a pathway to settle in Canada permanently and continue building your career and life in the country.
Can I apply for a work permit after my PGWP expires?
Once your PGWP expires, you have the option to apply for another work permit, either through an LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment) or an LMIA-exempt permit. However, you have to meet the eligibility criteria for both options. Alternatively, considering your Canadian work experience, applying for Canadian permanent residence may also be a viable option to explore.
The Conclusion:
Choosing to study in Canada for a two-year program offers more than just extra time in the country.
It’s a smart decision that can boost your resume with valuable Canadian work experience and give you a pathway to permanent residency. Don’t hesitate! Explore your program options, apply for your PGWP confidently, and enjoy more time in the dynamic Canadian job market.
If you have any questions or need assistance with your PGWP application, reach out to the study abroad consultants at Landmark Immigration for help.
