Maple News reports that international students in Canada who plan to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) must pay close attention to their enrollment status throughout their studies. Maintaining full-time student status for every academic semester is a key requirement, and unauthorized breaks can jeopardize eligibility for this valuable permit, which often serves as a stepping stone to permanent residency.
The PGWP offers international graduates an opportunity to gain Canadian work experience for up to three years, depending on the length of their program. However, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has strict rules: students must remain enrolled full-time, which generally means taking at least three courses per semester. Falling below this threshold without official permission can lead to disqualification.
That said, IRCC does permit certain exceptions where students had valid reasons to not meet full-time status. These include:
– Taking a scheduled break (e.g., summer holidays)
– Reductions in course load between March and Fall 2020 due to COVID-19
– Being part-time or taking a break in the final semester
– Taking an authorized leave of absence for fewer than 150 days
In cases where students need to take time off—for reasons such as medical issues, family emergencies, pregnancy, suspension, or mandatory military service—they can apply for an authorized leave of absence. This document, issued by their Designated Learning Institution (DLI), confirms that the break was legitimate and approved.
To request an authorized leave, students typically need to complete a formal application process through their school. This usually involves submitting a leave request form, providing documents to support the reason for their absence, and sharing valid immigration papers such as their study permit, visa or eTA, and passport.
Most DLIs in Canada, including the University of Toronto, University of Waterloo, McGill University, University of British Columbia, and Queen’s University, have defined procedures for requesting this type of leave. These institutions also offer resources such as international student advisers who can help students navigate this process.
Maple News emphasizes the importance of staying informed and maintaining communication with your institution to ensure continuous compliance with immigration and academic requirements. For students planning to apply for a PGWP, being proactive about authorized absences can make all the difference in protecting their future in Canada.