Post-graduation work permits (PGWPs) are open work permits granted to international students upon completing a program of study at a Canadian institution. PGWPs provide holders the flexibility to work for any employer, anywhere in Canada, for a duration ranging from eight months to three years.
Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWPs) are available to international students who have graduated from a Canadian Designated Learning Institution (DLI). These permits, known as open work permits, grant foreign nationals the freedom to work for any employer anywhere in Canada.
Not all programs of study in Canada are eligible for a post-graduation work permit. Ensure PGWP eligibility before selecting a program.
Unlike most Canadian work permits, PGWPs do not require a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). Eligible graduates can gain valuable Canadian work experience, enhancing their eligibility for Canada’s permanent residency programs, such as:
Applicants within Canada must have valid status at the time of application. If their study permit has expired or will expire, they may apply for visitor status before the PGWP application. However, those applying before their study permit expiration are eligible to work full-time while their application processes. Overseas applicants can also apply for a PGWP.
The following study levels and programs are eligible for PGWPs:
Processing times for PGWPs range from 80 to 180 days. During this period, applicants may work in Canada if they apply before their student permit expires.
Applicants have 180 days from completing their study program to apply for a PGWP. If they leave Canada after completing their studies, they can apply for a PGWP from overseas. Previously, PGWP applications had to be submitted from within Canada. Depending on the processing visa office, additional documentation may be required for applications submitted outside Canada.
A PGWP does not prevent applicants from applying for other work permits later. They can apply for both LMIA or LMIA-exempt permits if eligible. However, given their Canadian work experience, applicants may consider applying for Canadian permanent residency.
Several immigration programs accept candidates with Canadian work experience:
When nearing PGWP expiry, applicants can either apply for an extension or explore permanent residency programs for graduates of Canadian institutions.
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