In order to extend their stay in Canada and obtain PR (permanent residency) in Canada most foreign students who have completed their studies from approved DLI choose PGWPs (Post-Graduation Work Permits).
As defined by the Canadian government, a DLI school is one that has been granted permission by a provincial or territorial government to accept foreign students.
A review of yearly graduation cohorts showed that postgraduate work permits (PGWPs) are being issued more frequently in Canada. According to the study, 29% of the 2008 graduating class held a PGWP five years later; the 2009 class experienced a five-percent increase, and the rate has steadily increased since then. After graduating in 2013, 52% of the 2013 class obtained a PGWP.
Additionally, statistics show that PGWPs has grown significantly since 2008, with the overall number rising to 64,700 from 10,300 in 2008.
Most foreign students choose PGWPs for PR in Canada – The reason behind it
It’s important to note that Canada currently has around 807,000 international students studying there with legitimate study visas.
PGWPs are increasing in popularity due to two factors, according to Statistics Canada. First, they allow overseas graduates to gain financial support in Canada. And second, they offer them a chance to obtain permanent residency.
The median income of PGWP holders showed an increase between 2008 and 2018
Based on valid PGWP holders with positive T4 earnings, the median income for the 2018 tax year was $26,800. It is a significant increase over the $14,500 median income in 2008. The greater earning potential available to PGWP holders across Canada explains the remarkable growth in the number of PGWP holders over the years.
With a median income of $10,600 in 2008, Quebec had the lowest median income of PGWP holders. While Alberta had the highest at $24,000. With Quebec’s median average earnings reaching $23,200 and Alberta’s at $32,000, PGWP holders’ median earnings increased significantly in 2018.
Increasingly, PGWPs facilitate the permanent residency of international students
After finishing their education, overseas students can now become permanent residents of Canada (PRs) through the PGWP.
The main route to employment in Canada for foreign graduates of Canadian Designated Learning Institutions (DLI) is through PGWPs. These work permits give holders complete employment freedom in Canada. It allows them to work for any employer of their choice for up to three years.
In order to determine the length of a PGWP, the duration of the post-secondary program from which the applicant graduated should be taken into account.
Foreign students who are seeking permanent residency in Canada can gain valuable experience through PGWPs. Candidates who have worked in Canada are offered incentives in a number of Canadian immigration pathways.
The PGWP program can increase a student’s chances of becoming a permanent resident of Canada. And thus it is appealing to international students. A successful application for permanent residency can be greatly impacted by the work experience gained through this program.
PGWP appears to be facilitating the transition of international students into permanent residents in Canada for an increasing number of students. However, the use of this program differs among PGWP holders depending on their educational qualifications (such as a bachelor’s degree versus a master’s degree).
To conclude
Current and future international students planning to study in Canada would be well advised to familiarize themselves with the PGWP program based on the above statistics. People intending to become Canadian permanent residents should also consider this. Making informed decisions about their education and careers in Canada. As well as increasing the chance of obtaining permanent residency. It can be achieved by understanding the PGWP program and its potential benefits.
