Work permit options for international student graduates no longer eligible for PGWPs

Canada has long been a favored destination for international students seeking world-class education and career opportunities. One of the key pathways that facilitate their transition into the Canadian workforce is the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). However, graduates who are no longer eligible for the PGWP might find themselves exploring alternative options to stay or work in Canada. Below, we discuss some of the viable routes for such individuals.

What is a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)?

The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is an open work permit offered to international graduates who have completed studies at eligible Canadian post-secondary institutions. It allows graduates to work for any employer in Canada without the need for a job offer at the time of application.

To qualify, you must have graduated from a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada and completed an eligible program. The validity of the PGWP depends on the length of your study program, with a maximum duration of up to three years. This permit provides graduates with an opportunity to gain valuable Canadian work experience, which can also contribute to their eligibility for permanent residency through programs like the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) under Express Entry.

Recent international graduates in Canada can explore a variety of work permit options, including the following pathways:

• Work Permits Under Free Trade Agreements: Available through agreements like the CUSMA (formerly NAFTA), these permits facilitate employment opportunities for eligible professionals from member countries.
• International Experience Canada (IEC) Work Permits: Open to youth from partner countries, this program provides temporary work opportunities under categories like Working Holiday and Young Professionals.
• Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP): Designed for foreign nationals with job offers supported by a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), this pathway fills specific labor market needs.
• Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) Work Permits: Tailored to attract skilled workers to Atlantic Canada, this program offers work permits to those with job offers from designated employers in the region.
• Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) Work Permits: PNP participants can apply for employer-specific or open work permits, depending on the province’s requirements, while awaiting permanent residency.
• Spousal Open Work Permits: Eligible spouses of international students or individuals sponsored for permanent residency can obtain an open work permit, allowing them to work for any employer in Canada.

These options provide flexibility for international graduates, enabling them to build their careers in Canada.

After completing your study program in Canada, you can begin working full-time immediately if you meet the following criteria:

1. Authorization During Studies: You were permitted to work off-campus while enrolled in your study program.
2. Timely Work Permit Application: You applied for a work permit before your study permit expired.
3. Decision Pending: You are currently awaiting a decision on your work permit application.
4. Valid Status: You maintain valid immigration status in Canada while applying for a work permit from within the country.

Adhering to these requirements ensures compliance with Canada’s immigration and employment laws, allowing you to transition seamlessly from studying to working.

Who is No Longer Eligible for the PGWP?

Recent changes to Canada’s Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligibility criteria, effective November 1, 2024, have impacted many international students. Previously, most full-time programs at designated learning institutions (DLIs) in Canada lasting more than eight months qualified graduates for a PGWP. However, under the new rules, eligibility is more selective.