Can International Students Work After Completing Their Studies?
If you’re an international student or a Canadian employer looking to hire an international student who has finished their studies, you might wonder if that student can work in Canada. The answer is yes—they might be able to work after applying for a Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP). In fact, many students can start working as soon as they submit their application, even before the PGWP is issued.
Understanding Post-Graduate Work Permits (PGWP)
Generally, an international student who studied in Canada on a valid study permit may be eligible to apply for a PGWP. This open work permit allows them to work for any employer in Canada for a specific time, usually between eight months and three years. The length of the PGWP depends on how long the student studied in Canada. For example, if you studied for one year, you’re likely to get a one-year work permit. If you studied for two years, you’d typically receive a two-year work permit. A master’s or undergraduate degree usually qualifies you for a three-year work permit.
Not All Students Are Eligible for a PGWP
It’s important to know that not every student who studied in Canada can get a PGWP. If you completed your studies at a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada that isn’t authorized to offer programs leading to PGWP eligibility, you won’t be able to apply for one. Many private colleges and universities in Canada do not offer programs that lead to a PGWP, so this is something to check before enrolling.
Employers Hiring International Student Graduates
Sometimes, employers contact us about hiring a candidate who has completed studies in Canada at a DLI. If the student attended an institution that allows for PGWPs, employers can hire these graduates. As an employer, you can hire a graduate who has submitted their PGWP application even if the permit hasn’t been issued yet. The rules allow these graduates to start working legally in Canada before their PGWP is approved, as long as the application was submitted on time and the eligibility requirements are met.
Important Considerations for PGWP Eligibility
To qualify for a PGWP, the student’s study permit must have allowed them to work off-campus during their studies. They also need to have completed their studies according to the conditions on their study permit, attended a DLI, and met all other relevant requirements. If these conditions are met, the student can apply for a PGWP and start working even before the permit is officially approved.
Conclusion
Hiring international student graduates in Canada can be a straightforward process with the right information, ensuring that both employers and graduates make the most of the opportunities available through the Post-Graduate Work Permit program.
