After completing your studies in Canada, you may be eligible to apply for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP) which allows you to work in Canada for a period of time, to gain Canadian work experience.
Here are the general requirements and steps to apply for a post-graduation work permit:
- Eligibility: To be eligible to apply for a PGWP, you must have graduated from a designated learning institution (DLI) and have a valid study permit. You must have completed a full-time program of study that is at least eight months long, and have obtained a diploma, degree, or certificate.
- Time frame: You must apply for a PGWP within 180 days of receiving written confirmation (such as a transcript or an official letter) from your DLI that you have met the requirements for completing your program of study.
- Application process: You can apply online or on paper and pay the fees, similar to the study permit application process.
- Required documents: You will need to provide documents such as a copy of your diploma, degree, or certificate, proof of your graduation and proof that you have a valid study permit and have maintained your status as a student throughout your program.
- Length of permit: the length of the PGWP will be the same as the length of your program of study, up to a maximum of three years.
- Conditions of PGWP: You must respect the conditions of your permit, such as working for an eligible employer and not being self-employed.
It’s also important to note that having a PGWP does not guarantee you permanent residency, it is only a step towards it and you may be eligible to apply for other programs such as express entry, provincial nominee programs etc.
It’s always recommended to check the official website of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for the most up-to-date information on the eligibility requirements and the application process for a post-graduation work permit and other options available to you.