Receiving your Post‑Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is a major milestone—it validates your Canadian work status and opens doors for career growth and immigration options. But navigating what comes next can feel overwhelming. Here are four important steps you shouldn’t miss!  

1. Understand Your Work Authorization + Renew SIN

• Once approved
  Your PGWP becomes effective immediately upon approval. There's no requirement to wait for a physical copy—your online confirmation grants work rights.
• You need to renew your SIN.
• Why? You need a valid SIN to work legally in Canada. Your old one has expired as your study permit has expired.
• Where can you renew SIN? At Service Canada (in-person or online).
• How? Go to Canada.ca. Search “Renew SIN” to learn more.
• What do you need? PGWP and Passport or Valid ID

2. Apply for TRV (stamp on your passport)

• Your PGWP is a work permit, not a travel document. If you are in Canada and want to travel outside of Canada, you must have a valid visitor visa or eTA to re-enter. Re-entry as a worker relies on both your PGWP and valid travel authorization.
• Where? Apply online in the IRCC portal.
• How? Log in to your IRCC account and submit TRV application.
• What do you need? PGWP, Passport, Digital Photo, IMM forms + Fee

3. Renew Health Insurance

• After obtaining a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), you will need to renew or apply for OHIP (Ontario Health Insurance Plan) coverage.
• Why? To stay covered after your student status ends
• Where? Your province’s health authority (e.g., OHIP, AHCIP, MSP)
• How? Visit the province's health authority near you
• What do you need? PGWP, ID (passport), Old heath card and proof of address (if asked)

4. Continue Building Experience Toward PR

Your PGWP is a key step toward permanent residency in Canada:

• Gain the right experience: Most Canadian immigration programs like the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) require 1–2 years of skilled work.
• Explore immigration streams: Look into pathways like federal and provincial Express Entry streams, which favor those with Canadian work experience.
• Be sure to keep track of your NOC code, work hours, employer letters, language test results.

Stay on Top of Compliance

• Maintain legal status: Let IRCC know if your mailing address changes. Keep all legal documents valid and up to date.
• Mindful job choices: Avoid any work that may violate permit conditions (e.g., restricted healthcare roles without a medical exam).

 If you'd like help navigating specific streams, spouse applications, or navigating PR options, feel free to reach out!

Neekee Virani, RCIC-IRB

Phone: 905-746-6352

Email: viraniimmigration@gmail.com

Website: www.viraniimmigration.com