How to apply for post graduate work permit from outside Canada: The post graduate work permit (PGWP) program is a popular pathway for international students to gain Canadian work experience and potentially obtain permanent residency by allowing them to work in Canada for up to three years after completing their studies as graduates.
However, navigating the process of applying for a PGWP can be complex, especially for those outside of Canada. This article aims to guide international students on how to apply for a Post-Graduate Work Permit from outside Canada. It covers eligibility criteria, required documents, the application process, and fields with the highest chances to provide a complete resource.
PGWP Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for a Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) in Canada, international students must meet specific criteria. Here are the details of the eligibility requirements:
- Program of Study: The academic program must be a minimum of eight months and lead to a degree, diploma, or certificate from a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada. The program should also be full-time and on-campus.
- Study Permit: International students must have a valid study permit at the time of applying for the PGWP. Note that those who have previously finished a program of study in Canada are ineligible for a PGWP.
- Institution: The institution must be a DLI and authorized by the government of Canada to grant degrees, diplomas, or certificates.
It is also important to apply for the PGWP within 180 days of completing the academic program. Failing to apply for a PGWP on time after completing studies may result in denial of the application and ineligibility for the program. To avoid any issues, we recommend that students apply for their PGWP as soon as possible after finishing their studies.
Required Documents Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP)
When applying for a Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP), there are several documents that international students need to submit. Here is a list of the required documents:
- Valid passport or travel document: The passport must be valid for the duration of the PGWP application process.
- Final transcript or letter of completion: Students must provide evidence that they have successfully completed their academic program from a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada.
- Proof of legal status: Students must provide proof of their legal status in Canada at the time of their application, such as a valid study permit or visitor record.
- Photos: Two identical passport-style photos are required for the application.
- Completed application form: Students must complete the application form for the PGWP.
Additionally, there may be additional documents required based on individual circumstances. For example, if a student has changed their name, they may need to provide legal documentation to support the name change. If a student is applying from a country where they are not a citizen, they may need to provide additional documents to demonstrate their legal status in that country. It is essential to review the requirements carefully and ensure all necessary documents are submitted with the application.
Highest Chances of Obtaining PGWP
Choose a field of study aligned with Canadian job demand to increase chances of obtaining a PGWP. High-demand fields, identified by the Canadian government, offer better employment prospects for graduates.
Here are some examples of high-demand fields:
- Engineering: Canada has a high demand for engineers in various fields, including civil, electrical, and mechanical engineering.
- Computer Science: With the growth of the tech industry in Canada, these graduates are in high demand, cybersecurity, and other tech-related fields.
- Healthcare: There is a high demand for healthcare professionals in Canada, including doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals.
- Business and Management: With Canada’s growing economy, there is a demand for business and management professionals in various industries.
Choose high-demand fields to increase job prospects after graduation, improve chances of obtaining a PGWP, and be eligible for permanent residency through programs such as Express Entry.
What happens if Study Permit Expires
If your study permit is set to expire before you receive your final academic documents, you may be eligible to apply for a bridging work permit. This permit allows international students to extend their stay in Canada temporarily while they wait for their final academic documents.
- To be eligible for a bridging work permit, students must meet the following criteria:
- A valid study permit that is set to expire within four months must be held by them.
- They must have completed their program of study.
- They must have applied for a PGWP.
- They must have a job offer for a position that is related to their field of study.
- To apply for a bridging work permit, students must submit the following documents:
- A copy of their study permit and passport.
- Proof of completion of their program of study, such as a letter from their school or final transcript.
- A copy of their PGWP application.
- Proof of a job offer related to their field of study.
- A completed application form for a bridging work permit.
Note that the bridging work permit is valid only until a decision is made on the PGWP application. In case the PGWP application is denied, the bridging work permit will expire, and the student must leave Canada.
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We hope this article about post graduate work permit from outside Canada was helpful to you. If you have questions about Canadian immigration programs, schedule an appointment with us.
You’ll get the finest support and guidance from our best lawyers in Angad Immigration, who will ensure your profile is validated as per the suitable immigration programs.
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