Navigating the world of immigration and work permits can be quite daunting, especially with changes on the horizon. Recently, there have been proposed updates to Canada’s Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program. These changes, outlined by the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) Deputy Minister Transition Binder 2024, aim to align the issuance of PGWPs more closely with Canada’s labor market needs. Essentially, this means that fewer permits will be issued to graduates from certain programs, while students entering occupations in shortage will have better access to PGWPs.

As these changes may impact many current and prospective international students, it’s crucial to have a clear understanding of the PGWP. Here, we address some of the most frequently asked questions about the PGWP to help you navigate this important aspect of your journey in Canada. Post-Graduation Work Permit

What is a PGWP?

A Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is an open work authorization granted to international students who have successfully finished a qualifying program at a Canadian Designated Learning Institution (DLI). This permit is especially advantageous because it enables graduates to acquire work experience in Canada.

Am I eligible for a PGWP?

To be eligible for a PGWP, international students must meet several criteria:

Completed a Post-Secondary Program:

This program can be academic, vocational, or professional training and must be at least eight months long.

Graduated from an Eligible DLI:

The institution must be recognized as a Designated Learning Institution by Canada.

Program Outcome:

The program should result in earning a degree, diploma, or certificate.

Full-Time Student Status:

You must have held full-time student status in Canada during every academic session of the program(s) of study used in your PGWP application.

Required Documentation:

You should have obtained a transcript along with an official letter from your DLI, confirming that you have fulfilled all the necessary requirements to complete your program.

For more detailed information on eligibility, you can visit the official IRCC webpage dedicated to PGWP eligibility and qualifications.

How much does a PGWP cost?

Applying for a PGWP costs CAD $255.00. If you need to regain your student status before submitting your application, you will be required to pay an extra fee of CAD $379.00.

How long is a PGWP valid?

The duration of a PGWP is determined by the length and nature of your study program.

• Programs shorter than eight months: Not eligible for a PGWP.
• Programs between eight months and two years: The PGWP validity will match the length of the study program (e.g., a nine-month program results in a nine-month PGWP).
• Programs of two years or more: The PGWP can be valid for up to three years.
• Master’s Degree Programs: If the program is eight months or longer, students can apply for a three-year PGWP even if the program was less than two years.

If you completed more than one eligible program, you might receive a PGWP valid for the combined length of your completed programs.

Is it possible to apply for a job before receiving my PGWP?

You are eligible to apply for a job before obtaining your PGWP if you fulfill the following conditions:

• Full-Time Enrollment: You were registered as a full-time student at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in a qualifying program.
• Completed Program: You have completed your program of study.
• Work Hours Compliance: You have not exceeded your permitted number of work hours (both on-campus and off-campus).

Is it possible to travel outside Canada while waiting for my PGWP?

Yes, you can travel to and from Canada while waiting for your PGWP, provided you have a valid visa or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). Here’s what you need to know:

• Returning as a Student: If your study permit is still valid, you can return to Canada as a student.
• Returning as a Worker: If your PGWP was approved while you were outside Canada, you can enter as a worker.
• Returning as a Visitor: If your PGWP is still being processed, you can return as a visitor. You are permitted to work without a work permit while your application is being processed.

Do I require a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA)?

You will need an LMIA for your PGWP if it is required to meet the program requirements for the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) or the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), or if your occupation is not LMIA-exempt. For more details, you can visit the IRCC help centre webpage.

Can I work in a different field than the one specified on my PGWP?

Your ability to work in a different field depends on where your occupation details are noted on your PGWP.

Listed under Additional Information:

You are not restricted in the field you can work in and do not need to apply for a change to your work permit.

Listed under Conditions or Remarks/Observations:

You must work in the field specified on your permit. To pursue a new job in a different field, you need to request a modification to the terms of your Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) by securing a new work permit from within Canada.

Can I work somewhere else if my PGWP specifies a particular employment location?

This depends on where the employment location is listed on your PGWP:

Listed under Additional Information:

You are not restricted to a specific location and do not need to apply for a change to your work permit.

Listed under Conditions or Remarks/Observations:

You must work in the specified location. To work in a different location, you must apply to change the conditions on your PGWP by obtaining a new work permit from within Canada.

Can I switch employers while working under a PGWP to get experience for the Canadian Experience Class?

Yes, the PGWP is an open work permit, which means you are free to switch employers. However, you must ensure that you abide by any restrictions outlined on your permit. Additionally, to qualify for the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), only skilled work experience counts. This encompasses employment in roles categorized under the National Occupation Classification (NOC) TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3.

Can I renew my PGWP?

No, PGWPs are one-time-only, non-renewable work permits. This means that once your PGWP expires, you cannot apply for another one.

Navigating the PGWP process can be complex, but understanding these key points can help you make informed decisions about your future in Canada. If you have any specific questions or need further clarification, it’s always a good idea to consult the official IRCC resources or seek advice from immigration professionals.

Disclaimer

This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration policies and requirements can change, and it’s important to consult the official IRCC website or an immigration expert for the most current information and personalized guidance.

Source: www.cicnews.com

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