It is an open work permit designed to help international students to smoothly join the Canadian workforce after completing their studies. Administered by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), this program attracts thousands of foreign students to Canadian institutions by offering them a pathway to permanent residency.
In this comprehensive read “The ultimate guide to Canada’s Post Graduate Work Permit (PGWP)-2024”, AELC- our expert consultants for Canada in Pakistan will educate you about the PGWP.
From understanding the eligibility criteria to the application process, we’ve got you covered. With the PGWP, you can work anywhere in Canada without needing a job offer as it is an open work permit. It makes gaining valuable work experience for a minimum of 3 years possible, leading to permanent residence (PR). Let’s dive in and explore how you can make the most of this incredible opportunity!
What is the Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP)?
The Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) is an open work permit; the purpose of this program is to ensure that students can work in Canada after they complete their education. PGWP program is implemented by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) which helps to attract thousands of foreign students to Canadian institutions.
It is responsible for drawing thousands of international students to Canadian universities. After graduating from DLI institutions, this program will assist overseas students to extend their stay in Canada and acquire work or job which eventually lead towards the PR pathways in Canada.
AELC- the best consultant for Canada in Pakistan will guide you about the PGWP. It acts like an open work permit that allows graduates to get a permanent stay in the country without the need for a job offer.
When Can You Apply for a Post-Graduate Work Permit(PGWP)?
As soon as you get an official transcript or a degree from your educational institution in Canada, the deadline to apply within 180 days (about 6 months).
The letter from the institution should confirm that you are eligible to meet the requirements to complete the program of study.
In 2024 students must submit a Province attestation letter before applying for a study permit.
AELC, as your educational consultant in Pakistan will ensure that you can leave Canada and then apply for PGWP if the study permit is set to expire before the marks are declared by the institution.
Official Requirements of the PGWP Program in 2024
The official requirements of this program are straightforward. AELC will ensure that:
- The educational institute you joined must be a designated learning institution (DLI), not a Public-Private Partnership (PPP).
- Students must be enrolled for more than 8 months of the program with a valid study permit.
- Students enrolled in master’s or Ph. D programs have their PGWP remain unchanged in 2024.
- If you complete your study program in less time than the normal time, you can still apply for PGWP.
- Students have up to 180 days (about 6 months) to apply for a PGWP after graduation.
- Graduate students’ spouses are no longer allowed to have work permits in Canada after February 2024.
- PGWP is awarded once, it cannot be renewed.
Moreover, to get all the information about the post-graduate work permit program (PGWP) for International Students in Canada and updates about the changes in 2024 consult AELC. It is the core responsibility of our seasoned consultants at AELC to provide our clients with updated information. To achieve the study of Canada dream, the status of a student in Canada must be a full-time student during each academic session. There can be some exceptions for the following such as:
Applicants who are not eligible
- Those students who have previously taken or obtained a post-graduation work permit.
- Those candidates enrolled in less than 8 months program or diploma.
- Any students who have participated in the Government of Canada Awards Program.
- Students enrolled in college based on PPP model or an online course.
What Supporting Documents do you need for the PGWP Program?
AELC will provide updated information about the requirements. According to IRCC the applicant should have the following documents When you apply, you must confirm the following:
- that you attended and completed your program
- the name of your program
- the length of your program
You can confirm these by submitting any of the following:
- your degree program or diploma
- your transcript or
- an official letter from your school
Official Transcript
As an applicant, you may need an official transcript issued by their DLI; you may be asked to show the letter of completion of your studies. Keep your fingers crossed and meet all the requirements of the application.
Where can you apply for PGWP:
- You can apply for PGWP from Canada if your study permit is still valid.
- You can apply from outside Canada as well if your study permit is expired.
- You can apply for visitor or restore status in Canda if your study permit is about to expire.
Duration of PGWP Processing:
You can apply online as well as on paper. The estimated time for completion of this process is around 87 days (about 3 months). (IRCC,2024).
Work in Canada While Studying and After Graduation
Studying in Canada comes with the fantastic benefit of being able to work while you learn. As an international student, you have the right to work up to 20 hours a week during the academic year. Students can also work full-time during summer holidays, all without needing a separate work visa. This allows you to gain valuable work experience and support yourself financially while completing your studies.
If you aim to pursue a career in Canada after graduation, the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program (PGWP) is your gateway.
This program enables you to apply for a work permit, allowing you to continue working in Canada and potentially pave the way to permanent residency. The PGWPP is designed to help international graduates seamlessly transition from student life to professional life in Canada, offering you the opportunity to build a successful career in your field of study.
Additional benefits of studying in Canada
- High-Quality Education: Canadian schools are renowned for their high academic standards and rigorous quality controls, ensuring students receive an excellent education.
- Bilingual Education: Students could study in English, French, or both, enhancing their language skills and broadening their cultural experiences.
- Safety and Security: Known for its safe and peaceful environment, Canada offers a secure place for students to live and learn.
- Multicultural Society: With a diverse and inclusive society, students from nearly 200 different countries are welcomed and celebrated.
- Affordability: Compared to other popular destinations for international students, Canada is more affordable. Additionally, the weaker Canadian dollar against major currencies like the USD, GBP, and EUR makes it an economically attractive option.
Conclusion
Canada’s low unemployment rate has made it a most sought-after destination for students around the world.
AELC- has experience of over a decade of guiding students in Canada. PGWP policies keep on changing. AELC makes sure you have the updated version of all the requirements.
After reading “The Ultimate Guide to Canada’s Post-Graduate Work Permit Program (PGWP) -2024”, hopefully, you have all the information you need.
Updated on June-2024
