PGWP: Key Criteria for International Students in Canada
International students in Canada aiming for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) upon graduation must meet specific criteria. The PGWP, crucial for building eligibility for permanent residence, requires enrollment in an eligible program at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) and maintaining full-time student status.
To qualify, students must complete an academic, vocational, or professional training program lasting at least eight months. Upon completion, they need an official letter and transcript from the DLI confirming their program finish. PGWPs are Open Work Permits (OWPs), allowing graduates to work for most employers in most industries. The duration of the PGWP varies from eight months to three years, depending on the program's level and length.
Eligibility for a PGWP does not guarantee issuance. Students must still be admissible to Canada at the time of application. Factors affecting admissibility include medical conditions, criminal issues, or changes in the student's home country. Students cannot receive another PGWP if they already hold one and complete another educational program. To apply, students must publish an overview of their educational credentials, although specific timing requirements are not detailed.
PGWPs are vital for international students seeking Canadian permanent residence through programs like the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). To confirm a school's DLI status, students should check the official DLI list on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.
