Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is a Canadian immigration program that allows international students who have completed eligible post-secondary programs in Canada to obtain an open work permit after graduation. 

This open work permit allows them to gain valuable work experience in Canada, which can potentially lead to permanent residence in the country.

Here are some key features and eligibility criteria for the Post-Graduation Work Permit program:

1. Eligible Institutions: To be eligible for a PGWP, you must have completed a full-time program of study at a designated learning institution in Canada. These institutions include universities, colleges, and certain other educational institutions.
2. Program Duration: The length of the PGWP depends on the duration of the program you completed. Generally, if your program was at least eight months but less than two years in duration, you may be eligible for a PGWP of up to the length of your program. If your program was two years or more, you could be eligible for a three-year PGWP.
3. Timely Application: To be eligible, you must apply for the PGWP within 180 days (6 months) of receiving written confirmation from your institution that you have completed your program of study and are eligible to obtain your degree, diploma, or certificate.
4. Full-Time Study: You must have studied full-time during each academic session of your program, except for the final academic session when part-time study may be permitted.
5. Valid Study Permit: You must have a valid study permit when you apply for the PGWP.
6. No Prior PGWP: You are typically only eligible for one PGWP in your lifetime, so you should use it wisely.

The PGWP is highly valuable for international students as it allows them to work in Canada without needing a specific job offer and gain Canadian work experience, which can enhance their eligibility for permanent residency through various immigration pathways, such as the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) or Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).