The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is a crucial document for international students aspiring to gain work experience in Canada and eventually build eligibility for permanent residence (PR) pathways. Understanding the eligibility requirements and exceptions is essential to avoid jeopardizing your chances of obtaining a PGWP.
Key Eligibility Criteria for PGWP
One of the primary requirements for obtaining a PGWP is maintaining full-time student status for each semester throughout your studies. This means actively pursuing your studies and taking at least three courses per semester, according to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Exceptions to the Full-Time Study Requirement
While maintaining full-time status is vital, there are specific exceptions that IRCC allows under certain conditions:
- Scheduled Breaks: If you were not a full-time student during scheduled breaks, such as summer vacations, it does not affect your PGWP eligibility.
- COVID-19 Impact: Students who had to switch to part-time studies or pause their studies between March 2020 and the autumn semester of the same year due to the pandemic are exempted from the full-time requirement.
- Final Semester: If you were not a full-time student during your last semester of studies, you could still qualify for a PGWP.
- authorized Leave of Absence: Taking an authorized leave of absence for less than 150 days, with proper documentation, is permitted.
Authorized Leave of Absence
An authorized leave of absence is a document provided by your Designated Learning Institution (DLI) explaining to IRCC that you had a legitimate need to pause your studies and that the school approved your leave. DLIs are the only institutions in Canada authorized to accept international students.
Common Reasons for Authorized Leave of Absence
- Medical illness or injury
- Pregnancy or parental leave
- Family emergency
- Mandatory military service
- Change of programme at the same institution
- Suspension from school
Requesting an authorized Leave of Absence
The process to request an authorized leave of absence varies by institution but generally follows similar steps:
- Submit a Request Form: Petition your school for a leave of absence letter, providing the reason for your request.
- Provide Supporting Documentation: Submit documents that verify your need to pause studies.
- Submit Immigration Documents: Include copies of your study permit, student visa/electronic travel authorization (eTA), and passport.
Most schools have immigration experts or international education hubs where students can get guidance on their specific cases.
Popular DLIs in Canada
Below are some of Canada’s most popular DLIs and their authorized leave of absence processes:
- The University of Toronto
- Waterloo University
- McGill University
- The University of British Columbia
- Queen’s University
Conclusion
By following these guidelines and understanding the exceptions, international students can effectively manage their study schedules and maintain eligibility for the PGWP. This work permit not only provides valuable work experience but also serves as a stepping stone towards permanent residence in Canada. Ensuring you comply with IRCC’s requirements and knowing when and how to request an authorized leave of absence can safeguard your academic and career goals in Canada.
Discover your options to study in Canada and embark on a path towards a promising future with the PGWP.
FAQs
Q: Can I work while on an authorized leave of absence?
A: No, you cannot work while on an authorized leave of absence. The leave is meant for you to address personal issues without affecting your studies, not for work purposes.
Q: How long can my authorized leave of absence be?
A: An authorized leave of absence can be for a period of less than 150 days. Exceeding this duration may affect your PGWP eligibility.
Q: What if my authorized leave exceeds 150 days?
A: If your leave exceeds 150 days, you may need to reapply for a study permit to continue your studies, and this could affect your PGWP eligibility.
Q: Do all DLIs in Canada offer authorized leave of absence?
A: Yes, all Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) can provide an authorized leave of absence if you meet the required criteria.
Q: Can I take multiple authorized leaves during my studies?
A: Yes, you can take multiple authorized leaves, but each must be properly documented and approved by your DLI, and the total leave should not affect your full-time study status.
