maaxx.ca

As of February 15, 2024, the Government of Canada implemented changes to the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PTDP) program. Students who have completed a master’s program, even in less than two years, will now be eligible for a 3-year PTPD, provided they meet all other eligibility criteria.

However, as of September 1, 2024, students enrolled in study programs with a licensing agreement will no longer be eligible for PTPD. Furthermore, the special measures for distance learning courses and the validity of the PGWP have been extended until August 31, 2024.

A post-graduation work permit is an open work permit granted to international students upon completion of their studies in Canada. PTPD holders are free to work anywhere in Canada for any employer for as many hours as they wish.

The duration of your PGWP depends on the level and duration of your program of study, as well as the expiry date of your passport, whichever comes first.

(Join our ETNRI WhatsApp channel for all the latest updates)

Are all international students eligible for a PTPD?

You may be eligible for the PTPD if you have graduated from a Designated Educational Institution (DLI) and wish to stay in Canada temporarily to work. A DLI is a school approved by a provincial or territorial government in Canada to accommodate international students.

Graduating from a DLI does not automatically make you eligible for a PGWP. Check the IDD list to see which schools have eligible programs.

Who is eligible for a longer post-graduation work permit?

Graduates of programs lasting at least two years at designated educational institutions eligible for PGWP are eligible for a 3-year PGWP, as are graduates of master’s programs lasting less than 2 years .

For the master’s program

If your program lasted less than 8 months (or 900 hours for Quebec diplomas)
You are not eligible for a PTPD if your program lasted at least 8 months (or 900 hours for Quebec diplomas).
You can apply for a 3-year PGWP, even if your master’s duration is less than 2 years, provided you meet all other eligibility criteria.

This does not apply to certificate or diploma programs.

How long does it take to get a PGWP?

Applicants are permitted to work in Canada while their WPPD is processed, given that they submitted their application before their student permit expired. There is a 180-day window in which you must apply for your PTPD from the date you complete your program of study.

You can now apply for a PTPD from abroad if you leave Canada after completing your studies.