The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) allows foreign nationals to work in Canada after finishing their degree, which is a great opportunity for many graduates. The PGWP isn’t renewable and has a finite lifespan (anything from eight months to three years). Knowing these routes is crucial whether you are already employed, intend to continue your education, or are looking into immigration possibilities. It is strongly advised to seek the counsel of immigration lawyers in Canada for personalized guidance. To stay in Canada after their work permit expires, PGWP holders can follow six practical options that are outlined in this blog.
1 – Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
Numerous PNPs provide invitations to overseas graduates to make their province their permanent home. Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) have been “enhanced” to be in line with Express Entry. Your chances of getting an invitation to apply for Express Entry would increase by 600 points if you receive a nomination through an improved PNP.
Rest assured, there are numerous PNP choices to consider even if you do not have the necessary job experience in an Express Entry qualifying occupational skill category. Those with TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 job experience are also eligible to seek nomination through various provinces’ “base” PNPs.
2 – Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
One of the Express Entry-managed streams, the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), is the greatest option for those whose work permits are due to expire and who want to stay in Canada. You need to have worked in a skilled occupation in Canada for a year before you can apply for the CEC.
Additionally, you must fulfill other criteria for Canadian permanent resident status, such as language proficiency. Do not apply for CEC unless you intend to reside in a province other than Quebec.
3 – Study Permit Extension
It is possible to apply for an extension of your study permit if you intend to continue your education in Canada beyond the expiration of your PGWP. During the time that you are enrolled in your new educational program, you will be able to continue living in the country as an international student.
It is important to keep in mind that you are required to submit an application for the extension prior to the expiration of your PGWP and that you may be eligible for the extension of your study permit.
4 – Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
You can submit an application for permanent resident status in Canada through the AIP if you have graduated from an Atlantic post-secondary institution. Because of this, you will be able to remain in Canada until the expiration of your PGWP.
One must have successfully completed an approved program for a period of at least two years in order to be eligible for the AIP. Additionally, you need to have a work offer that is still active from an employer in one of the Atlantic provinces, which are New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, or Newfoundland and Labrador.
5 – Open Work Permit
If you want to continue working, you should investigate the many opportunities that are available to you for applying for an open work visa. You might wish to bring up the option of requesting that your employer obtain a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) for them to be given a closed work permit.
This indicates that you, the individual who has the permit, are entitled to continue working and reside in Canada, but you are not permitted to work for any other employer.
6 – Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP)
As an additional option, you may apply for a Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) if you have previously submitted your application for permanent resident status in Canada and are currently awaiting a decision on your application. You are required to have submitted an application for permanent residence under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) and have obtained an Acknowledgement of Receipt (AOR) from the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada (IRCC) to be eligible for this permit.
You will be able to continue working and keep your legal status in Canada if you have a BOWP. This will allow you to wait for a decision on your application for permanent residency.
Conclusion
Whether your goals are more work experience, further study, or permanent residence, there is a path that fits them. Your path to Canada is far from finished, even if your PGWP has expired. Being proactive and aware of your alternatives will help you to make major steps toward a stable future in Canada.
Given the complexity and subjectivity of immigration laws and application procedures, customized help from qualified immigration lawyers in Brampton or another Canadian city is vital. Their knowledge and experience will help you choose the correct strategy for your particular situation. If you move fast and follow the right advice, your future following PGWP could be just as bright as your present.
