You’ve studied for years in Canada, forged friendships and built a life — now you’re ready to launch your career. The good news? Canada wants you to stay. The nation has ushered in its most friendly environment ever for international students to become working ones, i.e. from study permits to work permits. This guide will lead you through each step, from picking the right work permit to finally submitting your application.
Why Canada Wants International Students to Stay
There’s a massive labour shortage in Canada. The nation requires well-trained workers in health care, technology, trades and elsewhere. International students are already familiar with Canada, have local education experience and speak English or French. This makes them prime candidates for permanent jobs.
Each year, thousands of international students are successful in converting their study permits to work permits. A good many settle as permanent residents and Canadian citizens. The road is possible, and anyone with the correct information can take it as well.
Types of Work Permits for Students
Work permits are not one size fits all. The one you’ll want to pick will depend on your circumstances. Here are the primary options for international students.
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
The Most Popular Option for International Students: PGWP. This work permit allows you to work anywhere in Canada for any employer. How long a PGWP can be is determined by the length of your study program.
PGWP Duration Table:
| Program Duration | PGWP Duration |
|---|---|
| Less than 8 months | Ineligible |
| 8 months to less than 2 years | Equal to program length |
| 2 years or longer | 3 years |
You can receive a PGWP only once in your lifetime. This means it needs to be spent wisely. Students generally apply for the PGWP first, work for a few years and then subsequently submit an application for permanent residence.
Employer-Specific Work Permit
This is a type of permit that binds you to only one employer. You cannot switch jobs without being issued a new work permit. It is however not the path chosen by most international students due to its restriction in freedom. But it could work if you already have a secured job offer from a company you believe in.
Open Work Permit for Spouses
If your spouse/common-law partner has a work permit or study permit, you may be eligible for an open work permit. This allows you to work for any employer in Canada. This is a common approach that many couples use to support each other while establishing themselves in Canadian careers.
Eligibility Requirements You Must Meet
Before you apply for any work permit, ensure that you satisfy all the fundamental requirements. If a single requirement is missing, one can be disqualified.
For Post-Graduation Work Permit
You must have:
- Studied at DLI (Designated Learning Institution)
- Entire program of study is completed and passed
- Full-time study for a minimum of 8 months
- Graduated from an eligible program
- Applied within 180 days after you receive your final grades
- Had a study permit that was valid when you completed your studies
- Graduated from a program offering a degree, diploma or certificate
Important: Online programs completed from outside of Canada during COVID-19 might be applicable toward PGWP eligibility, but ensure to review the latest rules.
Programs That Don’t Qualify
Not all programs make you qualify for PGWP. You are not eligible for a PGWP if you studied:
- At a school that has lost the DLI status
- By means of a distance education program (other than during COVID-19)
- A general interest course
- At a private institution (if not degree granting)
Valid Study Permit Status
Your study permit needs to be valid when you apply for your PGWP. You need to apply for PGWP within 90 days from when you changed your status back to student. Don’t wait until the last minute.
Step-by-Step Application Process
It takes a few steps to convert your student visa into a work permit. Be sure to follow these steps, so there are no delays or denials.
Step 1: Gather Your Documents
Begin gathering your documents before you even graduate. You’ll need:
- Passport (valid for at least the duration of your anticipated work permit)
- Your most recent transcript – official transcript or letter from your school
- Completion letter from your institution
- Digital photo (size per specifications)
- Evidence that you have paid your application fees
- Copy of your study permit
Make digital copies of everything. Store them in labeled folders on your computer.
Step 2: Get Your Online Account Opened
Visit the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website. Sign up here or if you are already signed in, sign in here. This website is where you’ll submit your entire application.
Step 3: Complete the Applications
The principal one is IMM 5710 (Application to Change Conditions, Extend My Stay or Remain in Canada as a Worker). Fill out every section carefully. Check for spelling errors or incorrect dates.
Common mistakes include:
- Writing the wrong passport number
- Forgetting to sign the form
- Missing mandatory fields
- Using an outdated form version
Step 4: Pay the Application Fee
The fee for the PGWP application is $255 Canadian. How to Pay: Use a credit card or a debit card online. Hold onto the receipt as evidence of payment.
Step 5: Submit Your Application
Submit all paperwork online through your account. Ensure each file is readable and understandable. Any documents that are blurred or cut-off will only delay the action.
Once submitted, you will receive a confirmation number. Jot down and keep this safe. You’ll need it to look up your application status.
Step 6: Only If Applicable – Apply for a Bridging Open Work Permit
Ninety days after you complete your program, your study permit is no longer valid. If it takes over 90 days for them to process your PGWP application, you potentially could lose status. To avoid this, make an application for a Bridging Open Work Permit.
This is a temporary permit that allows you to work while you’re waiting for a decision on your PGWP. You can apply only after you have submitted your application for a PGWP.
Processing Period: What You Can Expect
Where you apply, and how many applications IRCC is processing, will affect PGWP processing times. Processing time varies from 80 to 180 days.
Processing Time Comparison:
| Location of Application | Regular Processing Time |
|---|---|
| Application inside Canada (online) | 80-120 days |
| Outside of Canada | 120-180 days |
| Paper application | Long time period (avoid if possible!) |
Look on the IRCC website for ongoing changes to processing times. These amounts vary depending on the volume of applications.
Checking Your Application Status
To follow the progress of your application log in to your IRCC account. You’ll see updates when:
- IRCC receives your application
- Your application is being reviewed
- Additional documents are needed
- A decision has been made
Create email alerts to avoid missing those must-read messages.
Common Mistakes That Cause Rejections
A lot of applications are declined for reasons that can be prevented. Avoid these common mistakes:
Applying Too Late
You have 180 days after you receive your final grades to apply. Don’t wait until day 179. You could have technical problems, lose the documents or run into payment issues that make you miss the deadline.
Incomplete Documents
All documents must be complete and legible. To the extent partial transcripts, expired passports or grainy photographs are issues, then they will be problematic. When in doubt about a document, reach out to your school or a licensed immigration consultant.
Wrong Program Type
Before applying, determine if your program is PGWP-eligible. If you attended a private college, or took a program online from outside Canada, make sure to look into the eligibility rules closely.
Restored Status Issues
If your study permit has expired and you had to restore your status, you’re not eligible to apply for a PGWP during the restoration period. You may want to wait until your standing has been formally reinstated.
What Happens Once You Secure a Work Permit
Congratulations! Your PGWP is approved. Now what?
Starting Your Job Search
With a PGWP you can work for any employer and anywhere. Take advantage of this freedom. Find positions related to your field of study and career aspirations. A lot of employers hire people with PGWP because they are already in Canada and know the work culture here.
Use these resources:
- Job Bank (The Government of Canada’s job portal)
- Indeed Canada
- Company websites
- Networking events
- Career fairs
Building Canadian Work Experience
Your PGWP years are valuable as you can secure Canadian work experience. This is one of the requirements that count towards several permanent residence streams. Concentrate on jobs that fall under the skilled (NOC TEER 0, 1, 2 or 3) category for immigration programs.
Make comprehensive records of your work:
- Employment letters
- Pay stubs
- Tax documents
- Job descriptions
You will need them for subsequent immigration applications.
Pathway to Permanent Residence
Work permits are temporary, but they can prompt permanent residency. Canada has several programs for workers with experience in Canada.
Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
It is the most common pathway for PGWP holders. You need:
- At least 1 year of skilled work experience in Canada
- Results of your language tests (IELTS or CELPIP)
- Proof of funds (if you have no job offer)
CEC employs the Express Entry system, which assesses candidates under factors such as age, level of education, work experience and language ability.
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP)
Every province has its immigration program. There are a few provinces that recruit students who have studied in their province to work. PNP may also be faster than the federal programs and have fewer requirements.
Employer-Sponsored Permanent Residence
If your employer places a premium on your work, it could sponsor you for permanent residence. This requires showing that no Canadian citizen or permanent resident can do your job.
Tips for Success
Start Early
Don’t procrastinate on applying. Allow yourself a leeway to collect documents, correct errors and address the unexpected.
Keep Copies of Everything
Make electronic and hard copies of everything. They could come in handy for future applications or in case IRCC loses something.
Stay Legal
Never work without proper authorization. Even a short period of unauthorized labor can interfere with your ability to apply for immigration in the future.
Get Professional Help If Needed
If your case is complex, you may want to recruit the help of a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) or immigration lawyer. They can look over your application and point out errors that you may overlook.
Network and Build Connections
Canadian work experience is more than just the job itself. Network, join industry groups and have a good LinkedIn profile. These relationships can be helpful for job searches and future opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work while my application for a PGWP is in process?
Yes, under specific conditions if you apply before your study permit expires. You will be authorized to work full-time while your decision is pending. This is called implied status.
What happens if my PGWP application is refused?
If your application is denied, you don’t have many options. If you’re eligible, apply for another type of work permit, leave Canada or find out if you can appeal the decision or reapply.
Can I study while on a PGWP?
Yes, you are allowed to study full-time or part-time while working on a PGWP. That said, studying does not lengthen PGWP duration or provide you with a second PGWP.
How long does a PGWP last?
It would vary with the length of your program. Programs 2-years or greater are eligible for a 3-year PGWP. Short programs receive a PGWP of size equal to their length.
Can I go outside of Canada while waiting for my PGWP application to be processed?
Yes, but you have to be sure you can come back. Ensure that you have your study permit, letter of acceptance and evidence that your application has been submitted with you. Some students also receive a visitor visa to make sure they can re-enter Canada.
Is it necessary to have a job offer before applying for PGWP?
No, you do not need a job offer. The PGWP is an open work permit, allowing you to work for any employer.
Can I apply for PGWP from outside Canada?
No, you must be in Canada to apply for PGWP. Though there were temporary exceptions during the pandemic. Verify all current rules on the IRCC website.
What if my passport expires while I have a PGWP?
Your work permit is not valid unless your passport remains valid. Renew your passport before it expires and apply to update your work permit with the new expiry date.
Can my family come to Canada with me while I hold a PGWP?
Your partner may be allowed to apply for an open work permit. Your dependent children may be able to study in Canada without having to apply for their own study permits.
How will working part-time while studying affect my eligibility for a PGWP?
No, working part time while you study (up to 20 hours per week during school terms) does not count toward your eligibility for a PGWP. In fact, it’s allowed and can offer you valuable work experience in Canada.
Final Thoughts
If you plan in advance and meet all the required conditions, converting a student visa to work permit in Canada is quite simple. The PGWP provides you with the opportunity to gain Canadian work experience, further explore career opportunities and pursue a path towards permanent residency.
Remember these key points:
- Must apply within 180 days after receiving final grades
- Ensure your program is PGWP-eligible
- Get everything ready before you get started with your application
- Double-check everything before submitting
- Get skilled work experience with your PGWP years
Canada’s doors are open to international students seeking to create a future for themselves here. With the right attitude, a solid plan and some elbow grease, your student visa can become the opening chapter in a new life that will last you permanently. Make the best of this chance, stick to the rules and create the Canadian career you’ve dreamed about.
