While many Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) holders may not meet the criteria for an extension, this comprehensive article outlines the eligibility criteria for potential extensions. Explore the available options if you don’t qualify for an extension, providing valuable insights on how to prolong your Post-Graduation Work Permit. Stay informed and navigate the intricacies of PGWP renewal with this in-depth guide.
Understanding post-graduation work permit
With the PGWP, which is available for up to three years depending on the length of an educational program, Canada encourages the retention of international students. With the help of this open permit, graduates can get important professional experience by working for any Canadian company without having to accept a job offer. PGWP holders can use this experience to their advantage when applying for immigration to Canada, as it aligns with more than 100 immigration programs that support individuals who have studied or worked there.
IRCC allows distance study at DLIs throughout the epidemic without compromising a participant’s eligibility for the PGWP. However, online study abroad will take longer to complete the PGWP as of September 1, 2023. To be eligible, a student must graduate from accredited universities, maintain full-time student status, and finish an eight-month program at a DLI. During the pandemic, there are exclusions that include waivers of some standards.
What is the duration of validity for a PGWP?
The duration of a PGWP is contingent upon the length of the completed academic program, with a minimum requirement of eight months. IRCC outlines guidelines for PGWP validity based on these criteria.
- PGWP duration aligns with the program’s length for programs lasting 8 months to 2 years.
- Example: Completing a 12-month program results in a 12-month valid PGWP.
- Programs lasting 2 years or more have a maximum PGWP validity of 3 years.
- Students completing multiple eligible programs at a DLI can extend PGWP by combining program lengths.
- Each program in the combination must individually exceed 8 months.
When the validity of their PGWP draws to an end, many international students are wondering what to do next. This is particularly common among PGWP holders with less than a year of Canadian work experience. This subgroup often seeks out extra job experience in order to fulfill the requirements for Permanent Residency (PR). The uncertainty around the PGWP’s expiration compels these people to plan ahead and look into options that fit with their long-term immigration objectives.
Options to prolong your post-graduation work permit – Who is eligible?
Two categories of permit holders are currently qualified to request an extension for their PGWP.
PGWP holders whose passports are nearing expiration
Those who match the requirements but were not granted a full-length permit because their passport was about to expire are eligible for extensions of their PGWPs. In such cases, applicants may apply for an extension by sending in a thorough application together with a letter of explanation outlining the reasons for the PGWP extension and the circumstances surrounding the expiration of their passport. For their case to be thoroughly reviewed during the extension application process, this information is essential.
Interim policy for extending PGWP
Under a temporary policy implemented by the IRCC, PGWP holders whose permits have expired or are scheduled to expire in 2023, as well as those whose permits expired between September 20, 2021, and December 31, 2022, are eligible for an up to 18-month extension as of April 6 of this year. This policy allows qualified PGWP holders and those who were previously eligible but do not have a valid temporary resident status to apply from within Canada for an open work permit. Nevertheless, under this temporary regulation, applicants who will be living outside of Canada during this time must apply for a regular work visa and make sure to specifically inform IRCC of the circumstances surrounding their application.
Kindly note that the IRCC has stated that the permission extension “will be valid for up to 18 months or until the applicant’s passport expires, whichever comes first.
Please visit the attached webpage for more information about the IRCC’s temporary policy, including eligibility requirements and advice on finding work while awaiting an extension decision.
What alternatives do I have if I am unable to extend or renew my PGWP?
The IRCC provides a number of options for PGWP holders who are not eligible for an extension to extend their stay in Canada. These choices include:
Visitor Visa
A Visitor Visa, also known as a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), permits entry into Canada as a visitor for a duration of six months. This visa may be issued as either a single-entry or multi-entry format, providing flexibility for travel purposes.
Visitor Record
Those who meet the requirements and would like to extend their visitation period in Canada can apply for a Visitor Record. It is essential to submit the application for a visitor record at least thirty days before to the expiration of the present status in Canada, such as the PGWP. This guarantees prompt processing and taking into account for a prolonged stay in the nation.
Open work permit bridge
Those in Canada who are waiting for the IRCC to make a judgment regarding their application for Permanent Residency may prolong their stay with the Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP). PGWP holders must have sought for permanent residence in Canada in order to be eligible. This temporary permit serves as a bridge for people moving from temporary residency status in Canada to permanent residency status by allowing continuing work authorization during the PR application process.
Alternative work permit choices
PGWP holders who are not eligible for an extension can choose from a variety of work permit options as long as they meet the requirements for each permit. Those who are not eligible for a PGWP extension have more alternatives for continuing their stay in Canada and working by looking into other work permit possibilities. Understanding and fulfilling the specific requirements of each permit is crucial when considering a suitable alternative.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are a number of choices available to people who want to prolong their PGWP, including bridging solutions, alternative work permits, and permit extensions. It is crucial to thoroughly investigate these options, verify eligibility, and adhere to application deadlines in order to smoothly extend their stay and carry on with their professional endeavors in Canada.
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