FAQs for Post-Graduate Work Permits

FAQ – Post-Graduate Work Permits

In this article, I will address a few popular questions and answers for post-graduate work permits in Canada and some important information to consider if you are applying for post-graduate work permit. A post-graduate work permit allows international students to work in Canada after they have successfully graduated from a designated learning institution. Additionally, post-graduate work permits are an excellent way to support an application for permanent residency in Canada. If you feel as though you would be eligible to apply for a post-graduate work permit, I suggest you read our article on “Post-Graduate Work Permit in Canada” before reading this question and answer article. The intention of this article is meant to clarify any misunderstanding or confusion with regards to post-graduate work permits in Canada.

Q: How does an international student apply for a post-graduate work permit?

A: An international student may apply for a post-graduate work permit online; however, if they would prefer to print out the application, they may also mail it. In order to successfully apply for a post-graduate work permit, you must apply at least 90 days before you graduate from your academic program and receive written confirmation of your completion.

Q: What is the validity period of a post-graduate work permit?

A: The validity period of a post-graduate work permit entirely depends on the length of your program of study in Canada. For instance, if you studied in Canada for a period of two years, then your post-graduate work permit would be issued for two years. Therefore, a post-graduate work permit can be valid between eight months and three years.

Q: What is the cost of a post-graduate work permit?

A: The cost of a post-graduate work permit is $155 CAD. But it is important to note that you must also pay $100 CAD for the “Open Work Permit Holder.” The reason behind this is because as an open-work permit, you may work for any Canadian employer anywhere in Canada.

Q: Is it possible to apply for a job prior to receiving my post-graduate work permit?

A: Yes it is possible to apply for a job prior to receiving your post-graduate work permit; however, you mustn’t work prior to receiving the work permit. If you work before receiving your post-graduate work permit, you would be working illegally in Canada and that may result in your removal from Canada. Therefore, in order to be safe, it is best to wait until you receive your post-graduate work permit, before officially starting work.

Q: Can I apply to any job of my interest with a post-graduate work permit?

A: Yes, you can apply to any job of your interest with a post-graduate work permit. Luckily, the post-graduate work permit is considered an open-work permit. Therefore, just like an open-work permit, a post-graduate work permit allows the applicant to work anywhere in Canada, for any Canadian employer. However, it is important to note that this only applies to eligible Canadian employers. If there is a Canadian employer on the ineligible employers list, unfortunately, you will not be able to work for them.

Q: Is there certain eligibility requirements for a post-graduate work permit?

A: This is a good question to ask. There is only one eligibility requirement to qualify for a post-graduate work permit. In order to be eligible for this permit, you must have graduated from a designated learning institution. This can include colleges, universities and other educational institutions. Therefore, if you have successfully graduated from one of the institutions on the list of designated learning institutions, then you may apply for a post-graduate work permit.

Q: Can I apply for my post-graduate work permit prior to receiving my diploma?

A: Yes, you can. It is not necessary to wait to receive your diploma before you apply for your post-graduate work permit. As long as you have completed and passed your program of study and have duly received a letter or notification that you may retrieve your degree, diploma or certificate, you may apply for your post-graduate work permit. It is also very important to apply for your post-graduate work permit prior to your study permit expiring.

Q: Is it possible to work while I wait to receive my post-graduate work permit?

A: Yes, it is possible to work while you wait to receive your post-graduate work permit. This is only possible in certain circumstances. In order to work while you wait for your post-graduate work permit, you must have been on a valid study permit; completed your studies; be eligible to work off-campus; and have not worked more than 20 hours a week during academic sessions, before applying for your post-graduate work permit. As long as you abide by the previously mentioned conditions, you may continue to work while you wait for your post-graduate work permit.

Q: Is it possible to travel outside of Canada while I wait to receive my post-graduate work permit?

A: It is possible to travel outside of Canada while you wait to receive your post-graduate work permit, so long as your study permit is still valid. If your study permit has expired, you will have to apply for a new study permit in order to have authorization to return to Canada. If you leave Canada and your post-graduate work permit is still processing, then you may be able to enter as a visitor. However, you cannot start working until you successfully receive your post-graduate work permit. Keep in mind, if you do not have any authorization to return to Canada, the Immigration officer does have the authority to refuse your entry into the country. Therefore, it is important to take this into consideration.

Contact Akrami & Associates

Should you have any further questions or feel confused or unclear about how to apply for a post-graduate work permit, it is important to talk about any questions you may have and discuss your concerns. By talking to immigration professionals about your concerns, this will ease your worries and assist with the application process. Many immigration applications are difficult to pursue on your own and it is highly recommended that you seek out professional and experienced help before attempting to apply. Here, at Akrami & Associates, we work and have experience with many different immigration issues. We have helped many of our clients, who are international students, obtain post-graduate work permits after graduating. If you believe that you may be eligible for a post-graduate work permit, please feel free to contact Akrami & Associates at our office at 416-477-2545 for more information or if you would like to book a consultation with an immigration professional for more advice.

With Akrami & Associates, there is always a way!