In a recent statement, the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) Deputy Minister Transition Binder noted changes to PGWP issuance. The changes will align with Canada’s current labour market needs. As a result, students entering high-demand fields will have easier access to PGWPs, while permits for other graduates may be limited.
The PGWP provides international students with a valuable opportunity to gain work experience, which is crucial for helping them achieve Canadian permanent residency.
In this article, we will explore the ins and outs of the PGWP for international students in 2024.
About Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
A PGWP is an open work permit available to international students enrolled in any of the Canadian Designated Learning Institutions (DLI).
It is a popular and highly valued work permit for international students, as the total work experience they gather will enhance their chances of becoming eligible to obtain PR in Canada.
Now, let us explore the answers to Ten common FAQs that every international student looks forward to:
What Are the Eligibility Criteria for a PGWP?
In order to become eligible for a PGWP, international students must:
Complete a post-secondary program (academic, vocational, or professional) of at least eight months at an eligible Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada.
Earn a degree, diploma, or certificate.
Graduate from an eligible institution.
Maintain full-time student status during all academic sessions of the program used for the PGWP application.
Obtain a transcript and an official letter confirming program completion.
What Is the Validity of a PGWP?
The programs under eight months old are ineligible for a PGWP. The validity of a PGWP depends on the length of the study program.
If the programs (excluding Master’s degrees) are for eight months or more, and validity is the same length as the completed program. For instance, an international student who completes a ten-month program earns a ten-month work permit.
If the program is for two years or more, then validity is for up to three years.
The criteria for Master’s Programs are entirely different as per the changes made to PGWP in 2024.
If the program is less than eight months, the student becomes ineligible for a PGWP.
If the program lasts eight months or more, the student is eligible for a three-year PGWP, regardless of the length of the program.
Even if the Master’s program is less than two years, students are eligible for an extra year of PGWP, offering a valuable opportunity to gain extended work experience in Canada.
Is It Possible to Renew My PGWP?
No, you cannot renew a PGWP. It is a one-time work permit granted to eligible international students, and once it expires, you cannot extend or renew it.
Are PGWP Applicants Allowed to Travel Outside Canada While Waiting?
PGWP applicants can travel to and from Canada if they have a valid visa or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA).
PGWP applicants must consider the following upon returning to Canada:
They can return as students if their study permit is still valid.
They can enter as workers if their PGWP was approved while they were outside Canada.
Applicants still waiting for their PGWP can return as visitors. Visitors can work without a permit while their application is being processed.
Is it necessary to have a Labour Market Impact Assessment?
If you work in Canada on a PGWP, you generally do not need an LMIA. However, you might need one if you apply for programs like the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) or the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP). Additionally, if your occupation requires an LMIA and is not exempt, you must obtain it.
Can PGWP Applicants Apply for a Job Before Receiving Their Permit?
Yes, PGWP applicants can apply for a job before receiving their permit if they meet the following criteria:
They were enrolled full-time in an eligible program at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
They have completed their program of study.
They adhered to the permitted number of work hours for both on-campus and off-campus work.
However, if international students do not receive PGWP approval, they must stop working immediately and can no longer continue employment.
Can I Work in a Different Field If PGWP Lists a Specific Occupation?
If your PGWP lists a specific occupation, whether you can work in a different field depends on how the occupation is listed:
If listed under Additional Information: You are not restricted to the field specified and can work in any occupation without needing to change your work permit.
If listed under Conditions or Remarks/Observations: You must work in the field mentioned. To work in a different field, you need to apply to change the conditions of your PGWP. This involves applying for a new work permit from within Canada.
Will I Be Able to Work in a Different Location if My PGWP Specifies an Employment Address?
The ability to work in a different location depends on how your employment address is listed on your PGWP. When listed under Additional Information, there are no restrictions on where you can work within Canada, and no changes to your permit are necessary.
However, you must work at the listed location if the address appears under Conditions or Remarks/Observations. To change your work location, you may apply to adjust the conditions of your PGWP.
Will Switching Employers on a PGWP Help Me Qualify for the Canadian Experience Class?
Yes, you can switch employers with a PGWP, as it is an open work permit. Always remember to follow any conditions stated on your permit. To qualify for the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), your work experience needs to be in a skilled occupation, specifically those classified under the National Occupation Classification (NOC) TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3.
What Is the Cost of a PGWP?
The cost to apply for a PGWP is CAD 255. If you need to restore your student status before applying, an additional fee of CAD 379 will be required.
The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is a crucial stepping stone for international students aiming to build their careers in Canada and potentially transition to permanent residency. However, understanding the eligibility criteria, conditions, and limitations of a PGWP is essential for making the most of this opportunity.
At ImmiLaw Immigration Law Professional Corporation, we are here to guide you through every step—from choosing the right study program to navigating the PGWP process and other immigration pathways. Our experienced immigration lawyers and overseas study experts will help you stay on track toward your career and residency goals in Canada.
Contact us for a detailed consultation tailored to your needs and for a smooth immigration journey.
The Canadian government has set ambitious targets for granting PR under the economic category, aiming to welcome 883,635 primary applicants by 2026 according to the new immigration levels plan for 2024-2026. Canada has been facing increased competition for permanent residency among international students due to a surge in applications and a rise in the number of temporary residents within the country. This intensifying competition may pose challenges for international students aspiring to attain permanent residency in Canada.
Canada’s immigration system plans to prioritize international students with High-Demand Skills, aligning permanent residency opportunities with labor market needs. The strategy, part of Global Affairs Canada’s Education Plan, is to better prepare international students for the workforce. The plan expects to strengthen ties between students, post-secondary institutions, and employers, emphasizing work-integrated learning.
Immigration minister Marc Miller recently highlighted plans to revamp the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program, prioritizing support for vital industries experiencing skill shortages. This initiative aims to increase opportunities for international students and work permit holders possessing high-demand skills to extend their stay in the country.
International students holding the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) and engaged in 82 specific occupations aligned with the Express Entry system stand a better chance at obtaining PR than PGWP holders in different occupations. Experience or employment in these targeted occupations enhances their prospects for securing PR status.
PNPs and Express Entry System
PR can be secured in Canada through two main routes: Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) and the Express Entry System. Minister Miller has emphasized efforts to address labour shortages, particularly in vital sectors such as construction and healthcare.
Industries like trade, technology, and healthcare are in high demand across Canadian provinces and within the federal Express Entry system. Proficiency in the French language is also a targeted criterion for Canadian immigration, presenting an additional avenue for PR.
International students aiming for Canadian PR can focus on these key areas: trades, tech, healthcare, and French proficiency to enhance their prospects within the Canadian immigration landscape.
Pathways for International Students to PR.
Pathways for International Students to PR
Let us look into the easiest pathways for international students to obtain PR in Canada.
1. Pursuing In-Demand Sectors
Consider entering skilled trades, tech, or healthcare sectors during your studies. Skilled trades certification can add 50 extra points in Express Entry, with lower cut-off scores in these specialized draws. All Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) in Canada prioritize these sectors in their PR selections.
2. Learning French for PR
This path to PR is less competitive due to the reluctance of most international students to learn French. However, becoming proficient in French makes you eligible for Francophone immigration, offering lower PR points cut-offs in both PNPs and Express Entry.
The 2024–2026 Immigration Levels Plan targets Francophone immigration at 6% in 2024, rising to 7% in 2025 and further to 8% in 2026. Proficiency in both English and French languages presents a significant advantage for international students in this context.
3. Choosing a Second Program
International students completing a 1-year diploma in Canada can pursue a second program after graduation to elevate their Canadian education level. This boosts their CRS points for PR eligibility and extends the PGWP duration.
Opting for a 4-year degree in high-demand sectors such as healthcare allows students to stay legally for the entire program duration, subsequently qualifying for a PGWP of the same duration. This notably enhances their chances of attaining PR, surpassing those students who completed a one-year diploma with a shorter PGWP.\
4. Rural Immigration Programs for International students
International students often overlook rural immigration programs, as many prefer to reside in major cities. Meanwhile, IRCC is exploring avenues to expand the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP) to additional towns and is striving to establish this program as a permanent fixture.
For instance, Alberta offers PR options in over 22 rural communities. Other provinces also provide pathways to PR in rural areas. Students can choose the immigration pathways focused on rural or regional areas an easier route to attain Canadian PR.
5. Exploring Entrepreneurship Opportunities
Exploring the Start-Up Visa program is a great choice for those with innovative ideas or a passion for business. Entrepreneurs who fulfill the criteria of the Canada Start-Up Visa program can apply for PR in Canada. This initiative helps at least five international students attain PR in Canada. While it may seem appealing, the Start-Up Visa Program is not as simple as it seems. Yet, it is a potential option for obtaining Canadian permanent residency and settling for life.
At ImmiLaw Immigration, our seasoned team, consisting of immigration lawyers and overseas study specialists, offers support for study permits, second program selection, post-study pathways, and diverse immigration requirements. Connect with us to pave your path toward a brighter future in Canada.
After graduating from a Canadian college or university, international students can apply for a Canadian Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). The typical duration of this work permit is three years, up to the same amount of time as the student’s academic program. By enabling them to work for any Canadian business in any industry, PGWP Canada hopes to keep students on board.
When the study program is over, the student has 180 days to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (after documented confirmation of a degree or diploma certificate is obtained). International graduates can work in Canada with a Post Graduate Work visa (PGWP), which is a temporary work permit. The PGWP typically lasts between 8 and 36 months.
Eligibility Requirement for PGWP from within Canada
If a person satisfies the criteria listed below, they may apply for a PGWP Canada:
The candidate has been enrolled full-time in school during their entire time in Canada.
The applicant should apply within less than 180 days after finishing their educational program.
The candidate has completed a program of at least eight months and obtained a degree or diploma certificate from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
For a PGWP holder to be qualified to apply for a Canadian permanent residence program, they should possess one year of professional work experience in a NOC code of 0, A, or B.
Eligibility Requirement for PGWP from outside Canada
A study permit for the applicant has been granted.
The applicant obtained a degree or diploma certificate from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) after finishing a program that was at least eight months long
The applicant remained a full-time student throughout the course of their education.
Other Requirements
Other requirements for becoming qualified include the following:
The candidate should complete a course of study program with a minimum of eight months at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)that qualifies.
Any course of study must result in a degree or diploma certificate.
The candidate has obtained a transcript and an official letter from the qualified DLI attesting that the applicant satisfies the conditions necessary for program completion
PGWP application can be made only once in the lifetime, but it is possible to extend your PGWP
Your PGWP cannot be renewed; however, if it was time-limited due to your passport’s expiration, you might be able to extend your PGWP. Your PGWP’s validity period cannot exceed the expiration date of your passport. If so, to receive the entire validity of your PGWP, you must apply for a work permit extension when your passport is renewed. If you meet the requirements for a different kind of work permit, you can seek to extend your PGWP before it expires.
If your PGWP is about to expire, you may want to choose an open work permit or an employer-specific work permit. If you are qualified for this work permit and submit your application before your PGWP expires, you can have the status that allows you to continue working in Canada. If your PGWP is about to expire, you may want to choose an open work permit or an employer-specific work permit. While awaiting the processing of your extension, maintained status gives you legal standing. Before their authorized stay expires, temporary residents may apply to extend it. The legislation extends your permitted stay as a temporary resident until a decision is taken on behalf of your application. As a temporary resident during the processing term, you are additionally regarded as having legal status.
Who can apply for PGWP
Graduates who apply for a PGWP before the expiration of their study permit are qualified to work full-time without a work permit while awaiting a decision on their application if all of the following criteria are met:
When you applied for the post-graduation employment visa, you had or had a valid study permit.
Your educational program is now over.
You fulfilled the prerequisites for working off-campus without a work permit by being a full-time student enrolled at a DLI in a postsecondary academic, vocational, or professional training program of at least eight months in length that resulted in a degree or diploma certificate.
You did not exceed the permissible working hours.
A candidate cannot apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) if:
Their study permit has been inactive for more than 180 days.
In the past, they had already received a PGWP.
The candidate has experience learning English or French as a second language.
The candidate participated in general interest or self-improvement courses of study.
The candidate completed their studies in Canada at a non-Canadian university.
PGWP Processing Time
A PGWP can be processed in 80 to 180 days.
While awaiting your PGWP, you may apply before your student visa expires and work in Canada. You have 180 days to apply after completing all your academic prerequisites in Canada. While awaiting your PGWP, you may apply before your student visa expires and work in Canada.
If you leave Canada after completing your studies, you may apply for a PGWP from overseas. Previously Canadian citizens could only apply for post-graduation work permits from within the country.
When applying for a Canada PGWP, you must include the supporting documentation listed on the below-mentioned checklist:
PGWP Documents Checklist
Extend my stay or continue to work in Canada by submitting Form IMM 5710
IMM 5476, “Use of a Representative,”
Form IMM 5475, “The permission to release personal information to a designated person”
Passport page photocopies,
Identity documents in photo form,
Current immigration document photocopy, if applicable,
The program’s final transcript,
A letter from the college or university, as well as the official diploma,
Evidence of payment,
The original letter that was given to you by the university stating your anticipated employment is a crucial component of your academic program (for Co-op Workers).
PGWP Application Process
Complete the Post-Graduate Work Permit Application process. 1. Fill out the PGWP form online:
Graduates must first complete their online Post-Graduate Work Permit application. 2. Pay the application fee:
The applicants must pay a CAD 255 fee for online PGWP applications. You might need to pay an additional CAD 350 to reinstate your status as a student if the validity of your study permit expires before you apply. 3. Compile the Essential Documents:
The next step for graduates is to assemble the paperwork needed for their application. This contains evidence that they have finished their coursework. One of the following papers may be used to offer this proof:
A diploma or degree,
Official correspondence from the school’s official transcripts or copies of transcripts downloaded from the school’s website is required.
4. Submit the Application:
The next step is for graduates to submit their applications online. After this, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) may need the applicant to submit more paperwork.
Successful applicants will receive their Post-Graduate Work Permit inside Canada. Successful candidates outside of Canada will receive their PGWP and a fresh visiting visa allowing them to enter the nation.
PGWP pointers to remember:
1. The PGWP offers international students the opportunity to get valuable professional job experience in Canada, which is one of its main advantages.
2. It’s vital to remember that a study permit expires 90 days after the conclusion of a course of study. You must also apply for a PGWP within 180 days of receiving confirmation that you’ve fulfilled the prerequisites for finishing your program of study. Depending on which occurs first—the day you receive your final grades or the day you receive official written notice that the program is over—the days will start counting.
3. You are not permitted to work without a permit if your study permit expires or becomes invalid before you apply for a PGWP, and you must instead:
Apply for a PGWP from abroad after leaving Canada.
Apply to reinstate your status as a student by submitting an accurate PGWP application ($255) and the necessary reinstatement fees ($350).
4. It’s interesting to note that while physically residing in Canada, you can also apply from “outside” of Canada. Maintaining your visitor status until you acquire the official work visa is necessary if you wish to stay in Canada.
5. You will receive an automatically generated letter from IRCC after submitting your PGWP application. The letter will grant a 120-day validity period for continuing to work. Most applicants should learn the outcome of their application before the 120-day deadline. You can use the IRCC web form to ask for verification of authorization to work if 120 days have passed and no decision has been made.
6. Spouses and common-law partners of The PGWP holders may be qualified for a work permit.
Spouses and common-law partners of the PGWP holders should be able to work in Canada for at least six months after receiving their open work visa application.
Should occupy a high-skilled job position (NOC 0, A, B)
Be physically residing in Canada or have plans to do so while working
7. A PGWP holder must attain one year of work experience in a NOC code of 0, A, or B before applying for permanent residence status in Canada under the Canadian experience category.
8. The PGWP allows you to apply for jobs whenever you want, anywhere in Canada (as long as your permit is still valid).
9. International students can only work 20 hours a week during academic sessions. But while your application is being reviewed, you can begin working full-time as soon as you finish your education. Within 90 days of getting your Letter of Completion, and while your study permit is still in effect, you must submit your PGWP application.
Canada’s earnest efforts to entice international students to remain in the country include the post-graduate work permit (PGWP) program. The numerous liberties and advantages of the program acknowledge the skills of international graduates, thereby helping them work for their betterment.
Yes, you have come to the right place. Read along to learn more about Canadian business immigration and the hassle-free, proven methods used by the most popular entrepreneurs, self-employed people, business owners etc., from India, who made their dreams come true in their dream destination, Canada!
Options for Canadian business immigration from India
Some of the popular business immigration options that business owners and Indian entrepreneurs use for relocating and settling in Canada are as mentioned below:
Start-Up Visa SUV)
The Canadian Start-Up Visa (SUV) is a business immigration program that permits foreign entrepreneurs to immigrate to Canada by receiving support from a designated Canadian venture capital fund, angel investor group, or business incubator. Applicants of the Canadian SUV program must demonstrate that their business ideas are innovative and have the potential to create jobs and economic growth in Canada.
Entrepreneur Work Permits
The Canadian Entrepreneur Work Permit is a business immigration program that allows foreign entrepreneurs to come to Canada and operate a business. To be eligible for this program, the applicants must have a fool-proof business plan, meet the language requirements and have sufficient funds. Successful applicants who receive the entrepreneur work permit can also bring their families to Canada. Individual entrepreneurs with this work permit can transition to a Permanent Residence (PR) status after one year of successful business operation in Canada.
Intra-Company Transfer (ICT)
The Canadian Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) program allows multinational companies to transfer eligible employees to a Canadian subsidiary, affiliate, or branch. The program facilitates the transfer of knowledge and skills between international offices and supports the growth and competitiveness of Canadian businesses. The program has specific eligibility requirements, including minimum job requirements and is managed by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada IRCC. After a year of employment in Canada, there will be several pathways to PR status for Indian nationals who arrive on ICT work permits.
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP)
The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) is a program designed by the Canadian government and the provincial authorities to allow Indian entrepreneurs, business investors and skilled workers to immigrate based on their qualifications and the potential to contribute to the economy of a specific Canadian province or territory. Each region has its selection criteria and eligibility requirements. British Columbia PNP and Ontario PNP are the favourite entrepreneur streams among Indian entrepreneurs.
Best Canadian business options for Indians
Information Technology
The Canadian IT industry offers good scope for Indians, with growing demand for skilled professionals in software development, cybersecurity, data analytics and cloud computing. Canada’s multicultural society, welcoming nature and business-friendly environment make it an attractive haven for ambitious Indian IT professionals. The National Association of Software and Services Companies (NASSCOM), the Indian Non-Governmental Trade Association, has an ongoing and healthy strategic partnership with the Canadian government. According to NASSCOM, Canada is touted as one the best countries globally for the growth and expansion of Indian IT Businesses.
Professional Services
The professional sector of Canada is globally renowned for its competency in HR consulting and financial strategies. The good news is that most of the leading Canadian HR consulting companies have increased business opportunities because of the shift of the existing workforce to non-traditional working environments. As a result, a large number of Indian entrepreneurs, business investors and qualified professionals are being attracted by the ever-booming finance sector of Canada.
Trading
The trading activities between India and Canada are essential for both countries as they provide enormous economic growth and development opportunities. India and Canada share a strong trading relationship, with India being Canada’s ninth-largest export destination and Canada being India’s 29th-largest trading partner. Increased trading activities will lead to more business opportunities, job creation, technology transfer and access to new markets.
Business statistics and guidance for Indian SMEs and business investors venturing to Canada
Given below are some of the statistical data accumulated over the years:
The average investment budget for Indian SMEs and business investors is between $150 to $300.
The average approval rate is 95%.
The most common destinations are Alberta, British Columbia, and Ontario.
The average processing time is two to three months.
Some of the flourishing Indo-Canadian business sectors in Canada:
Hospitality industry
IT consulting and services
Franchised businesses (professional services and retail marketing)
Trade (Textile industry, Jewellery, Medical supplies)
Significant reasons for rejections or non-approval of business immigration programs:
Insufficiency of funds
Inefficiency in convincing the viability of the business plan.
It is highly recommended that Indian SMEs and business investors venturing to Canada should conduct thorough market research to understand the Canadian market and consumer behaviour. They should also pay attention to legal and regulatory requirements and cultural differences. Business statistics such as GDP, inflation, and unemployment can provide valuable insights into the Canadian economy. It is also essential to seek guidance from local experts and establish relationships with potential partners or customers.
Success stories of Indians who reached Canada through us
We are proud to say that we could be the trusted travel partner for several of our highly esteemed clients. We helped them successfully immigrate to their dream destination, Canada, and will always strive to add up to our extensive list of happy clients.
9 significant steps for starting a Canadian business from India
Starting a business in Canada as an Indian can be an exciting opportunity; however, it requires careful planning and execution. Here are the nine steps to start a business in Canada from India.
1. Research: Conduct thorough research on the Canadian market and its associated regulations to better understand the business landscape. 2, Select a specific business structure: Decide on the type of business structure to register, such as a partnership, corporation or sole proprietorship. 3, Register your business: Register with the Canadian government to obtain licenses and permits. 4, Secure financing: Determine your start-up expenses and secure the funding with the help of loans, personal savings or investors. 5, Create a proper business plan: Develop a comprehensive business plan that outlines your goals, business strategies and financial projections. 6, Select a specific location: Decide on the place for your business activities and secure a commercial lease or go ahead and purchase the property. 7, Hire employees: Hire employees if necessary and abide the Canadian labour laws. 8, Set up proper accounting and bookkeeping: Establish adequate accounting and bookkeeping systems to manage your finances & taxes. 9, Launch your business: Launch your business. Start marketing and selling your products or services.
Few significant facts about Indo-Canadian Immigration
The immigration relationship between India and Canada dates back centuries. Since the 1960s, Indo-Canadians have become one of the largest visible minority groups in Canada. Indians have significantly contributed to Canadian society and culture, particularly in business, politics and arts. As per reliable sources of information, Indians occupy almost 4% of the top 10 of Canada’s total population. Most Indians come to Canada on business visas. British Columbia and Ontario provinces are the most preferred Canadian destinations by most Indians who immigrate under business immigration programs.
FAQs
Q: How to get a business visa to Canada?
You must determine your eligibility, collect your documents, complete the online visa application procedure, and attend the interview to obtain your business visa to Canada.
Q: What is the cost of getting a business visa in Canada?
The cost of getting a business visa in Canada varies depending on the type of visa and the applicant’s nationality.
Q: Will I get a visa if I own a business in Canada?
Owning a business in Canada does not guarantee that you will receive a visa. Applicants must meet all eligibility and application requirements.
Q: Is it possible to get a business visa to Canada from India?
Getting a business visa to Canada from India is possible by following the appropriate application procedures and meeting eligibility requirements.
Q: Will I be eligible for Canadian immigration if I buy a business in Canada?
Purchasing a running business in Canada is one of the most viable options for business immigration for entrepreneurs and foreign investors. You can buy a business franchise, invest in an existing business or even buy an existing one. You can successfully shift to Canada with the help of the C11 entrepreneur work permit or try the intra-company transfer method or any other suitable business immigration program. It is highly recommended that you always seek the assistance and guidance of expert immigration lawyers who can professionally handle your immigration needs.
