Is it possible to extend or renew my Post-Graduation Work Permit?
Embarking on your post-graduation journey in Canada opens doors to valuable work experiences. However, as your Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) approaches its expiration, questions arise about extending or renewing this essential document. Let’s delve into the possibilities, requirements, and processes involved in extending or renewing your PGWP, ensuring you make informed decisions to prolong your career opportunities in Canada.
What is the PGWP?
Post-graduation work permits grant graduates of authorized Canadian designated learning institutions (DLIs) an unrestricted work permit, enabling them to gain Canadian work experience after finishing their studies. The PGWP duration typically ranges from 8 months to 3 years, aligning with the study permit period; it cannot exceed the duration of the study program.
What is the duration of validity for a PGWP?
How long a PGWP remains valid depends on the duration of the completed academic program. To qualify for a PGWP, the completed program must be a minimum of eight months long. Here are the guidelines set by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC):
- For programs completed between eight months and two years, the PGWP granted matches the program length. For instance, a twelve-month program results in a twelve-month permit.
- Programs lasting two years or more result in a maximum validity of three years for the PGWP.
- Combining lengths of multiple eligible programs at a designated learning institution (DLI) may extend the PGWP’s validity, with each program needing to exceed eight months.
As the PGWP validity approaches its end, many international students, especially those with less than a year of Canadian work experience, contemplate their next steps, often aiming to gain more experience to qualify for Permanent Residency (PR).
Find out if you are eligible to get in Canada →
If I’m unable to extend or renew my PGWP, what other choices do I have?
If extending or renewing a PGWP isn’t an option, IRCC offers alternatives for those seeking to prolong their stay in Canada:
- Visitor Visa: Allows entry as a visitor for up to six months, available as single-entry or multi-entry.
- Visitor Record: Extends the stay as a visitor; the application should be submitted 30 days before the current status, like PGWP, expires.
- Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP): Available while awaiting a decision on a PR application; requires applying for permanent residency.
- Other Work Permit Options: Eligible PGWP holders can explore different work permit options, provided they meet the specific criteria for each permit.
Who qualifies for a PGWP extension?
Those eligible to extend their PGWP fall into two categories:
PGWP holders with an expiring passport
If permit holders meet the criteria but don’t receive the full permit duration due to an expiring passport, they can apply for an extension. It’s necessary to include this detail in a letter of explanation along with the extension application.
Temporary PGWP extension policy
As of April 6 this year, a temporary policy introduced by IRCC allows PGWP holders whose permits expired or will expire in 2023, including those expired between September 20, 2021, and December 31, 2022, to seek an extension of up to 18 months.
Under this policy, eligible PGWP holders, including those with valid temporary resident status, can apply for an open work permit from within Canada. However, applicants residing outside Canada must apply for a regular work permit and indicate their application is under this temporary policy.
The extension is granted for a maximum of 18 months or until the passport’s expiration, as per IRCC. More details on eligibility criteria and working while awaiting an extension decision are available on this dedicated IRCC webpage.
As you navigate the realm of post-graduate work permit extensions and renewals, remember that opportunities often reside within the clarity of information and preparedness. Your journey in Canada doesn’t have to end with the expiration of your PGWP. By understanding the eligibility criteria, application processes, and available alternatives, you can take proactive steps to extend your stay and continue thriving in your career pursuits. Embrace the possibilities, stay informed, and confidently pave the way for your continued success in Canada.
