7 important policies – international students should know about a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) in Canada

Due to COVID-19 Canada has changed some policies and procedures for issuing Post-graduate Work Permits (PGWP). With a PGWP, as with all open work permits, graduates can work full-time, part-time, or work as self-employed. If you are studying in Canada, a post-graduation work permit may be issued based on the length of the study program for a minimum of 8 months up to a maximum of 3 years.

1. Due to the Covid-19 students may study online, however, the online course should be less than 50% completed by distance learning on the length of the program
2. If the program of study is at least 8 months and less than 2 years – the length of the work permit will coincide with the length of the program
3. If the program of study is 2 years or longer – the length of the work permit will be 3 years
4. If the student completed more than one program from an eligible DLI within 2 years – the work permit may be issued for 3 years
5. If students complete their studies in less time than the normal length of the program (that is, they have accelerated their studies), the post-graduation work permit will be assessed on the length of the program of study.
6. PGWP may be issued for 3 years to individuals who complete a master’s or doctoral degree in Canada when the eligible DLI has confirmed in the written confirmation of program completion that the degree is 16 to 23 months in length, and does not include regularly scheduled breaks.
7. Applicants must apply for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP) within 180 days of obtaining written confirmation, such as an official letter or transcript, from the designated learning institution (DLI) indicating that they have met the requirements for completing their program of study.

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