The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is one of the most sought after opportunity by international students in Canada to gain valuable work experience after finishing their studies. Most of the students look forward to applying for a PGWP, as it allows them work in Canada for up to three years, based on the duration of their study program. A common question that every student has, at the time of applying for PGWP is that if they can work while waiting for the PGWP to be approved. This does not have a straight forward answer and it depends on circumstances at the time when the students applies for PGWP. 

The factors which affect the ability to work are listed below:

1. Completion of Studies: To apply for a PGWP, a student must have completed a full-time program of study at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada. This can be proved from the completion letter or the official transcripts that they received after completing thier study program. 
   
2. Valid Study Permit: The student must have had a valid study permit, at the time they applied for a PGWP, otherwise they will not be able to work while waiting for a decison on your PGWP applciation. A common scenario for students is when they apply for a PGWP while being on maintained status for study permit extension. Which in simpler terms means students who apply for PGWP while waiting for a decision on their study permit extension. In such a case student is not allowed to work as the conditon of having a valid study permit was not fulfilled.  
   
   
3. Eligible to Work off Campus During Study: A PGWP applicant is able to work full time on maintained status if they were eligible to work off campus during the course of their study program. These conditions are mentioned specifically on the study permit. 
4. Applying After Study Permit Expiry: If a student did not apply for PGWP on time and the study permit already expired, then they have 90 days to apply for PGWP along with restoration of study permit. The restoration fee is $350 which is to be paid along with the fee for open work permit. In such a case the student can only start working after receiving a decision on their PGWP application. 

Ideally, student should receive a WP-EXT for PGWP (IMM 0127 E) letter after applying for PGWP, which authorizes work until a decision is made on their work permit application, even if the 180-day validity period of the letter expires. A proof of authorization to continue working can be asked using the IRCC web form. 

Navigating Canadian immigration procedures can be at times complex and confusing, that is why it is recommended to consult a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) for immigration advice.

For guidance on Post Graduation Work Permit and related queries please feel free to contact us at [email protected].