Exceptions to the Eligibility Requirements

You are not eligible for a PGWP if you:

• Have a study permit that expired more than 180 days before you applied
• Have already received a PGWP
• Studied English or French as a second language
• Took general interest or self-improvement courses
• Participated in the Government of Canada Awards Program funded by Global Affairs Canada (GAC)
• Received funding from GAC
• Got the Equal Opportunity Scholarship, Canada–Chile
• Participated in the Organization of American States Fellowships Program
• Completed the majority of your program through distance learning (online courses, e-learning, or correspondence)
• Completed a program at a non-Canadian institution located in Canada
• Completed a course or program at a DLI that is not PGWP-eligible

Working While Waiting for Your PGWP

Yes, you can work full-time while your PGWP application is being processed, provided that:

• You had a valid study permit when you submitted your PGWP application.
• You have completed your program of study.
• You have complied with the terms of your study permit.

Unlike other applicants on maintained status, you can leave and re-enter Canada and continue working while waiting for your permit to be processed.

How a PGWP Can Help You Immigrate to Canada

Canada’s Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program is designed to offer international students an effective route to permanent residency. By transforming a Canadian education into meaningful full-time work experience, candidates can significantly enhance their eligibility for the Canadian Express Entry immigration system. Holding a Canadian educational credential and relevant work experience boosts an applicant’s Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, making them more competitive for permanent resident status.

In addition to Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) and Quebec’s Experience Class program also favor candidates with Canadian educational credentials and work experience. These programs recognize the value of Canadian education and work experience, making it easier for graduates to achieve permanent residency in Canada.

Permanent residence in Canada for international students and graduates

International students in Canada can achieve permanent residency through various immigration programs. This guide will explore several options available to help you navigate the process of obtaining Canadian permanent residency after graduation.

If you are an international student or graduate in Canada, you are well-educated, proficient in English or French, and have demonstrated your ability to adapt to Canadian life. Because of these qualities, Canada encourages you to immigrate permanently. Both the federal economic immigration programs and numerous Provincial Nominee Programs offer additional points for candidates who have studied and graduated in Canada.

Permanent Residence in Canada for International Students and Graduates: Express Entry

If you’re an international student or graduate in Canada, you may have heard about Express Entry, the main system for economic immigration in the country. Since its introduction in 2015, Express Entry has been adjusted to favor international students who have completed their studies in Canada. One significant change includes the addition of up to 30 points in the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score for those with a Canadian post-secondary educational credential.

To receive an invitation to apply through Express Entry, you must first qualify for one of three federal economic immigration programs and enter the Express Entry pool. In this pool, candidates are assigned a CRS score. The government regularly invites top-ranked candidates to submit their applications, typically holding draws every couple of weeks. Once invited, you have 60 days to submit a complete application, with the government aiming to process it within six months. Express Entry benefits young candidates with Canadian work and study experience and strong language skills, giving students and graduates in Canada an excellent opportunity to obtain permanent residence.

Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) is a popular route for international students and graduates seeking permanent residence in Canada. This program is designed for individuals who have gained at least one year of skilled work experience in Canada. After graduating and obtaining a post-graduation work permit, you can work for a year in a skilled position, prove your language proficiency through a recognized test, and then enter the Express Entry pool. If your CRS score is not high enough for an immediate invitation, there are strategies available to help improve your score.

Federal Skilled Worker Class (FSWC)

If you have not completed a year of skilled work in Canada but have done so abroad, the Federal Skilled Worker Class (FSWC) may be the route for you. To qualify, you must score at least 67 points on a grid that assesses factors such as age, language ability, work experience, job offers in Canada, and adaptability, including previous study in Canada. This pathway allows you to enter the Express Entry pool even without Canadian work experience.

Federal Skilled Trades Class (FSTC)

The Federal Skilled Trades Class (FSTC) is another Express Entry program tailored for qualified tradespersons. If you meet the criteria, this program can also be a viable route to permanent residency.