Post Graduation Work Permit

Upon completing their graduate degree in Canada, international students become eligible to apply for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP), essentially an open work permit allowing employment with any Canadian company.

PGWP eligibility is not automatic upon graduating from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI); additional prerequisites must be met.

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The PGWP serves as a valuable program in Canada, enabling international students to gain significant work experience. Such Canadian work experience can open doors to various immigration pathways, including Canadian citizenship. The permit’s validity ranges from eight months to three years.

Applicants can only apply for the PGWP within three months after receiving their final graduation results. Essen Immigration, with extensive experience in navigating complex immigration laws, can assist in application preparation, guide through the process, and facilitate online submissions.

PGWP Validity

The PGWP’s validity is determined by the length of the study program:

Programs less than 240 days: Not eligible
Programs less than 730 days but valid for 240 days: Open work permit (WP) valid as long as the study program is valid
Programs of 730 days or more: Open WP valid for 1095 days, with online study program duration considered.

Validating the passport is crucial for PGWP application, as it supports the entire stay in Canada. Essen Immigration provides guidance on passport renewal if required, and while the PGWP itself is not renewable, extension applications may be possible.

Processing time for a PGWP typically ranges from 80 to 180 days. Applying before the student permit expires allows work in Canada during the waiting period. Applying for a PGWP post-education completion outside Canada is now possible, and additional documentation may be requested.

Basic eligibility criteria for PGWP include completion of an 8-month full-time study program at a DLI, being at least 18 years old, applying within 180 days of completing studies, and maintaining valid status during the application. The PGWP offers a streamlined pathway to permanent residency in Canada through the Express Entry system, providing applicants with a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score.

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Essen Immigration can help international students explore and navigate the PGWP initiative, guiding them towards potential pathways to permanent residency in Canada. Contact us to discover how we can support your Post-Graduation Work Permit application.

Open Work Permit

About Open Work Permit

An open work permit is a versatile type of work permit that grants individuals the freedom to work for any employer in Canada without requiring a specific job offer. If you are interested in applying for an open work permit in Mississauga without the need for a specific job offer, our team is ready to assist you in obtaining an open work permit in Canada, allowing you to work for any employer in any province or territory.

No LMIA Code Required

This work visa does not necessitate a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), providing applicants the flexibility to accept employment in Canada from any recognized company. It is important to note that an open work visa is valid for a maximum of two years.

Processing Time

The processing time for an open work permit application varies based on factors such as the category under which you are applying and the current application volume. Generally, the processing time ranges from 4 to 8 months. Having a professional handle your application can expedite the approval process.

Eligibility Categories

To be eligible for an open work permit, you must fall into one of the following categories:

Spouse or common-law partner of a foreign national holding a work or study permit in Canada.

International student who has graduated from a designated Canadian post-secondary institution and is eligible for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).
Applicant for permanent residency (PR) in Canada, including spousal sponsorship.
Dependent family member of someone applying for PR in Canada.

Some types of open work permits come with specific conditions and guidelines, and it’s essential to be aware of them.

An open work permit can be applied for at any Canadian port of entry or from anywhere in the world. Our consultants are available to discuss your possibilities and guide you through the process. There are two types of open work permits in Canada – Restricted and Unrestricted.

If you already have an open work permit and meet specific criteria, you can apply for an extension before the permit’s expiry date. Open work permit holders have the flexibility to work for any employer in any province or territory. Provinces with strong economies, such as Ontario, British Columbia, and Quebec, often have higher demand for skilled workers in industries like healthcare, technology, and trades. Open work visa applicants in Canada are required to demonstrate financial stability, with a minimum requirement of at least CAD$10,000 available from the time of submission until visa issuance.

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At Essen Immigration Service, we specialize in assisting individuals in obtaining open work permits in Canada. Our dedicated team can guide you through the application process, ensuring all necessary documents are submitted for swift processing. We provide personalized service and support to make your immigration journey smooth and successful.