PGWP

 The PGWP is an open work permit, which allows international graduates to work for any Canadian employer without needing a job offer. A major benefit of the PGWP is it enables international graduates to gain professional work experience in Canada. Such work experience is helpful when PGWP holders go on to apply for Canadian immigration.

PGWP holder needs to gain one year of professional work experience in a (NOC) code of 0, A, or B to then be eligible to apply for a Canadian permanent residence under Express Entry program.

Requirements –

• Completed studies in an academic, vocational or professional training program that is at least eight months long at an eligible DLI. Study program must lead to a degree, diploma or certificate.
• Held full-time student status in Canada during every academic session of the program or programs of study completed and included as part of their post-graduation work permit application;
• Received a transcript and an official letter from the DLI confirming that the applicant has met the requirements to complete their program of study. The transcript and official letter must be included in a post-graduation work permit application.

A PGWP is valid for anywhere between 8 months to 3 years. The actual length depends on the length of your program at a Canadian DLI.

• Completed program under 8 months: Not eligible for a PGWP
• Completed program between 8 months and less than 2 years: The PGWP will be valid for the same length of your study program (e.g., a 10-month program will result in a 10-month PGWP)
• Completed program of 2 years or more: PGWP will be valid for 3 years
• Completed more than one program: You may be able to combine your Canadian educational programs to get a PGWP as long as the programs are DLI eligible and each over 8 months in duration. The total length of the PGWP will correspond to the durations above.