If you’re an international student in Canada holding a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), you might be wondering if it’s possible to extend or renew your permit.
This article breaks down the eligibility criteria for an extension and explores alternative options for those who may not qualify for an extension.
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Basics of Post-Graduation Work Permit
A Post-Graduation Work Permit is a work permit designed for international students who complete an eligible program at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada.
This permit allows you to work for almost any employer in the country, providing valuable experience that can contribute to future Permanent Residency (PR) applications.
Duration of Post-Graduation Work Permit
The validity of your Post-Graduation Work Permit depends on the length of the academic program you completed. Here’s a quick guide:
- Programs of eight months to two years: Your PGWP will be valid for the same duration as your program.
- Programs of two years or more: You’ll receive a PGWP valid for a maximum of three years.
If you complete more than one eligible program at a DLI, you may combine their lengths to extend the validity of your Post-Graduation Work Permit, with each program needing to be at least eight months long.
New IRCC Automation Tools For Faster Processing of PGWP And Work Permit Applications
Who Can Extend Their PGWP?
Not everyone can extend their Post-Graduation Work Permit, but there are two specific groups that may be eligible for an extension:
1. PGWP Holders with Expiring Passports:
If you didn’t receive the full-length permit due to an expiring passport, you can apply for an extension by providing this information in a letter of explanation with your application.
2. Temporary PGWP Extension Policy:
Implemented from April 6 this year, this policy allows PGWP holders whose permit expired or will expire in 2023, or whose permit expired between September 20, 2021, and December 31, 2022, to apply for an extension of up to 18 months.
This is applicable to eligible PGWP holders and former Post-Graduation Work Permit holders, even those with valid temporary resident status. If you’re residing outside Canada, apply for a regular work permit under this policy.
Important Note: The extension is valid for up to 18 months or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.
For more details on eligibility and the application process, refer to the dedicated webpage provided by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Options If You Can’t Extend Your PGWP
If you find yourself ineligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit extension, don’t worry. IRCC offers alternative options for extending your stay in Canada:
Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa):
This visa allows you to stay in Canada as a visitor for up to six months, issued in either single-entry or multi-entry formats. Learn more about visitor visas.
Visitor Record:
If you wish to extend your stay as a visitor, you can apply for a Visitor Record. Ensure you submit your application at least 30 days before your current status, such as the PGWP expiry date. Explore the details on the Government of Canada webpage.
Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP):
Reserved for those awaiting a decision on their PR application, the BOWP allows you to stay in Canada. To qualify, you must have applied for permanent residency. Check the eligibility criteria and details for this open work permit.
Other Work Permit Options:
If an extension is not feasible, consider exploring other work permit options that align with your eligibility criteria.
