When a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) reaches its expiry, some international graduates may find themselves restricted in their avenues to stay in Canada. While the PGWP enables them to work in the country for up to three years, extensions can be limited in specific situations. Nonetheless, alternative pathways exist for these graduates aiming to extend their stay in Canada, although not all may immediately qualify for these options.
After PGWP expires, PGWP holders can explore various options to stay in Canada:
- Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
- Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
- Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP)
- Work permit
- New post-secondary program
Let us delve deep into these available options.
1. Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) play a vital role in assisting international graduates in Canada who are aiming to settle in a specific province. These programs offer various pathways to permanent residency.
Certain PNPs are called ‘enhanced’ and are part of the Express Entry system. Nominees through these enhanced PNPs receive 600 extra points, adding to the CRS score. Attaining such a high score improves an applicant’s chances of receiving an ITA for permanent residency during Express Entry draws.
Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, Canada continued to conduct Express Entry draws for PNP recipients, allowing PGWP holders to benefit from faster processing times.
For PGWP holders lacking work experience in occupations eligible for Express Entry, ‘base’ PNPs offer an alternative. These programs often welcome candidates falling under TEER categories 0, 1, 2, and 3, as the NOC classifies. This allows individuals without specific work experiences to qualify and apply through these provincial streams.
2. Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
AIP assists recent graduates from Atlantic post-secondary institutions in becoming permanent residents, offering an opportunity for PGWP holders to stay in Canada before their permit expires.
Eligibility criteria
- Completing a qualifying program lasting a minimum of two years.
- Possess a job offer in Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador or Nova Scotia.
- The job offer must be classified within TEER categories 0, 1, 2, or 3.
Eligible international candidates stand to gain several advantages from this program. There is no obligation for a minimum work experience requirement, offering more flexibility. Moreover, the program permits PGWP holders to apply before they start working, providing an early entry point. This feature is beneficial for individuals who may need to accumulate more work experience by the time their permit expires, offering them an opportunity to pursue permanent residency.
3. Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP)
Graduates from publicly funded post-secondary institutions in one of eleven specified rural communities in Canada may qualify to apply for the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP).
Eligibility Criteria
- Completing a master’s degree or a post-secondary program lasting at least two years.
- Candidates must have resided for a specified duration in the community outlined by the program.
Furthermore, each rural community sets its specific eligibility criteria for applicants intending to apply through their program; please check the particular requirements of each community.
4. Work permit
Obtaining a work permit in Canada involves employers undergoing a lengthy and expensive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) process. However, there are alternative routes to secure a work permit that does not require an LMIA.
International Mobility Program (IMP) allows Canadian employers to hire temporary foreign workers without needing an LMIA. To qualify for an LMIA-exempt work permit, the job offered must provide broader economic, cultural, or competitive benefits to Canada, with reciprocal advantages for Canadians and permanent residents.
Additionally, if you qualify to apply for PR before your PGWP expires, you might be eligible for a bridging open work permit. This special permit enables you to continue working while processing your PR application.
5. Joining for an additional post-secondary program
Joining a new academic program at a Canadian college or university allows you to prolong your stay in the country while working part-time, up to 20 hours per week. This opportunity enables you to balance studies and employment, contributing to your experience in Canada. As a temporary measure, this method helps individuals who fulfil the Express Entry criteria but are awaiting an ITA to remain in Canada.
If your work permit is expired or your status is not maintained, you cannot continue working in Canada. Valid status is crucial for staying legally in the country. Therefore, ensuring a valid work permit or maintained status is essential for ongoing employment and residency in Canada.
The article offers general information and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. Seek guidance from a professional advisor for specific assistance. While we aim for accuracy, we cannot guarantee complete precision. Author opinions may change over time. ImmiLaw Immigration and its affiliates do not explicitly or implicitly endorse third-party advice, opinions, information, products, or services.
At ImmiLaw Immigration, our experienced team comprises proficient immigration lawyers with extensive Canadian laws and regulations expertise. Get in touch with us to explore your options for staying in Canada after your PGWP work permit expires.
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