Work in Canada after you graduate
Canada offers the Post-Graduate Work Permit Program (PGWPP) for postsecondary graduates to stay and work in Canada. Studies find almost three-quarters of all PGWP holders became permanent residents of Canada within five years of having obtained PGWPs. PGWP can only be applied for once in a lifetime and they offer open work permits that allow postsecondary graduates to work without restrictions on work location, employer, or requirement of a job offer.
Graduate from an eligible DLI
In order to be eligible for the PGWP, you must complete your program from an eligible Designated Learning Institution (DLI). Some DLIs are eligible for study permit applications but not for PGWP. Speak with us to find out more.
Have full-time student status
You must have maintained full-time student status during each academic session (e.g. seminar) of your program.
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There are only two exemptions to this:
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You took a leave from study authorized by the DLI.
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You have had a part-time status only in your final academic session (You must still maintain full-time status before the final session).
Apply on time
Within 180 days of the date of applying for the PGWP, you must meet one of the following criteria:
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You hold a valid study permit
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You held a study permit
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You are exempt from obtaining a study permit to study in Canada subject to IRPA (e.g. you are a family member of a consular or diplomatic staff, or a member of a visiting armed force)
Your program must be at least 8 months
Your postsecondary program can be academic, vocational, or professional training, but it must be at least 8 months in duration that lead to a degree, diploma or certificate.
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If your program takes from 8 months and less than 2 years to complete, the duration of your PGWP will coincide with the length of the program. If your program takes more than 2 years to complete, then you should be eligible for a PGWP that is valid for 3 years.
You have received a transcript
You can only apply for a PGWP if the DLI has already issued a transcript or official letter confirming that you have met the requirement to complete the program of study.
Ineligible applicants
You are not eligible to apply for PGWP if:
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You have been previously issued a PGWP
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You received funding from Global Affairs Canada (GAC)
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You participated in the Government of Canada Awards Program funded by GAC
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You obtained the Equal Opportunity Scholoarship, Canada-Chile
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You participated in the Canada-China Scholars' Exchange Program
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You participated in the Organization of American States Fellowships Program
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You completed the majority of credit toward the completion of your program of study by distance learning
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You completed a program delivered by a non-Canadian institution located in Canada, regardless of how long you stayed in Canada
Contact
Hoga Immigration Consulting Inc.
907-4978 Yonge Street,
Toronto, ON M2N 7G8
Tel: +1 (437) 985-1903