According to Maple News, international students in Canada often pursue the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) as a crucial step in gaining Canadian work experience after completing their studies. The PGWP can serve as a valuable bridge to permanent residency, as Canadian work experience is a key factor in both federal and provincial immigration pathways.
However, it’s important to understand that a PGWP is not automatically granted upon graduation. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) evaluates each application closely, and there are several common reasons why a PGWP request may be denied—despite graduating from an eligible Canadian institution.
To qualify, applicants must graduate from a designated learning institution (DLI) and meet a strict set of eligibility requirements. These include completing a program that is at least eight months in length, studying full-time throughout the program (except in the final term), and graduating from a qualifying post-secondary institution with a degree, diploma, or certificate. Failure to meet any of these criteria, such as dropping to part-time studies without authorization, is grounds for automatic refusal by IRCC.
Additional nuances apply for students graduating from vocational or training institutions in Quebec. These students must ensure their specific credentials meet IRCC’s eligibility requirements, which vary depending on the program and qualification earned.
Another common issue leading to rejection is missing documentation. While IRCC does not require applicants to wait for the physical copy of their graduation credential before applying, sufficient evidence of program completion is necessary. This usually includes a final transcript and a letter from the institution confirming graduation.
Currently, there is growing attention surrounding potential PGWP reforms. Though no official policy updates have been announced, federal and provincial immigration authorities are reportedly exploring changes that would better align PGWP eligibility with Canada’s labor market needs. These discussions are part of a broader effort to ensure that international graduates can meaningfully contribute to the country’s economic future.
Maple News advises international students to review IRCC’s eligibility checklist thoroughly and ensure they maintain full compliance throughout their studies. Proactively gathering required documentation and keeping up-to-date on any policy changes can significantly improve the likelihood of a successful PGWP application.