Maple News reports that many international students completing their studies in Canada are exploring options to extend their stay—not only to gain valuable work experience, but also as a first step toward permanent residency. Fortunately, Canada offers several immigration pathways for graduates seeking to settle in the country.
The most commonly used option is the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). This open work permit allows international graduates to work for nearly any employer across Canada, providing essential Canadian work experience that can later support a permanent residency application. Depending on the length of the academic program completed, a PGWP can be valid for up to three years.
To be eligible for a PGWP, students must have completed a program that lasted at least eight months at a designated learning institution (DLI). Notably, programs less than eight months in duration do not qualify. For those who complete programs of two years or longer, a three-year PGWP is typically granted, giving graduates ample time to find employment and integrate into the Canadian workforce.
Graduates must apply for the PGWP within 180 days after receiving both their final transcript and a confirmation letter from their DLI, verifying that all academic requirements have been fulfilled. Timing is critical: students should apply before their study permit expires to maintain their ability to apply from within Canada.
If a graduate hasn’t received their final transcript before their study permit expires, they may apply for a visitor record to remain in Canada legally while waiting. However, it’s important to note that those holding a visitor record are not authorized to work until their PGWP is approved.
A visitor record differs from a visitor visa and is issued to individuals who are already in Canada to extend their stay. This document allows the holder to remain in Canada beyond the validity of their original permit, though it comes with the restriction of no employment. Applications for visitor records must be submitted at least 30 days before the expiry of the current study permit.
The duration of a visitor record is determined at the discretion of an officer from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) or a Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officer, particularly if the applicant chooses to leave and re-enter Canada (a practice known as flagpoling).
As Canada continues to position itself as a top destination for international talent, these post-graduation options offer a strong foundation for students aiming to build a future in the country. Maple News will continue to track updates that impact immigration and work pathways for global graduates in Canada.