Canada is a popular destination for international students seeking higher education due to its high-quality universities and welcoming environment. However, after completing their study in Canada, international students often face uncertainty about their post-graduation options. This article will explore the various options available to international students after graduation from a Canadian university.
1. Introduction
After completing their studies in Canada, international students are faced with a number of options for their future. The most common choice is to obtain a post-graduation work permit (PGWP) and gain work experience in Canada. This work experience can then be used to qualify for permanent residency.
2. Eligibility for Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
To be eligible for a PGWP, international students must have completed a full-time program at a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada. The course of study had to have lasted at least eight months and resulted in a degree, diploma, or certificate. The student must have also maintained full-time status during their studies.
3. Applying for a PGWP
Students can apply for a PGWP within 180 days of completing their program of Canada study visa. They can apply online or on paper, and must provide supporting documentation, such as a letter of completion from their DLI. The application fee is CAD $255.
4. Validity of PGWP
The validity of a PGWP depends on the length of the student’s program of study. For programs that are less than eight months, no PGWP is granted. For programs that are between eight months and two years, the PGWP is valid for the same length of time as the student’s program of study. For programs that are two years or longer, the PGWP can be valid for up to three years.
5. Types of Jobs Allowed on a PGWP
International students with a valid PGWP can work for any employer in Canada, with some exceptions. They cannot work for an employer who is listed as ineligible on the Government of Canada’s website. Additionally, they cannot work in jobs that are considered to be “essential to Canada’s national security,” such as certain jobs in the military or intelligence agencies.
6. Bridging Open Work Permit
International students who have applied for permanent residency can apply for a bridging open work permit, which allows them to work in Canada while they wait for their permanent residency application to be processed. To be eligible for a bridging open work permit, the student must have a valid PGWP that is set to expire within four months.
7. Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Programs
International students with work experience in Canada can apply for permanent residency through Express Entry or a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). Express Entry is a federal program that allows skilled workers to immigrate to Canada. The PNP is a program that allows provinces and territories to nominate individuals for permanent residency.
8. International Experience Class
The International Experience Class (IEC) is a program that allows individuals with work experience in Canada to apply for permanent residency. This program is open to individuals who have worked in Canada for at least one year in a skilled, professional, or technical field.
9. Entrepreneur Start-Up Visa Program
International students who have a viable business idea can apply for the Entrepreneur Start-Up Visa Program. This program allows individuals to immigrate to Canada and start a business that will create jobs for Canadians. To be eligible, the individual must have the support of a designated organization and meet other eligibility criteria.
10. Temporary Foreign Worker Program
Employers in Canada are able to hire foreign workers through the Temporary Foreign Worker Programme (TFWP) to meet short-term labour shortages. International students with work experience in Canada can be eligible for this program, which can provide a pathway to permanent residency.
11. Permanent Residency through Canadian Experience Class
The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) is a federal program that allows individuals with Canadian work experience to apply for permanent residency. International students with work experience in Canada can apply for this program if they meet the eligibility criteria.
12. Permanent Residency through Federal Skilled Worker Program
The Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) is a federal program that allows skilled workers to immigrate to Canada. International students with work experience in Canada can apply for this program if they meet the eligibility criteria.
13. Permanent Residency through Provincial Nominee Programs
Provinces and territories can nominate people for permanent residency based on their qualifications and experience thanks to the Provincial Nominee Programmes (PNPs). International students with work experience in Canada can be eligible for PNPs and should check the requirements of the province or territory they are interested in.
14. Post-Graduation Work Permit Extension
International students who are unable to secure permanent residency before their PGWP expires may be eligible for an extension. To be eligible, the student must have a job offer in a skilled occupation and must apply before their current PGWP expires.
15. Conclusion
International students have a number of post-graduation options in Canada, including the Post-Graduation Work Permit, bridging open work permit, Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Programs, and various permanent residency options. It is important for students to research and understand their options in order to make informed decisions about their future in Canada.
16. FAQs
Can international students work in Canada after graduation?
Yes, international students can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) after completing their studies in Canada.
What is the eligibility criteria for a PGWP?
To be eligible for a PGWP, international students must have completed a full-time program at a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada and maintained full-time status during their studies.
What are the types of jobs allowed on a PGWP?
International students with a valid PGWP can work for any employer in Canada, with some exceptions.
How can international students apply for permanent residency in Canada?
International students with work experience in Canada can apply for permanent residency through various programs, such as Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs, or the Canadian Experience Class.
Can international students extend their PGWP?
International students may be eligible for a PGWP extension if they have a job offer in a skilled occupation and apply before their current PGWP expires.
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