Study Online Without a Study Permit and Still Qualify for the PGWP!

Gaining a coveted Canadian qualification may be more achievable with the latest updates to the requirements for international students! The current pandemic has dashed the hopes of many students all over the world due to travel restrictions but the Canadian government seems to have thought of everything.

International students are now allowed to complete part of their studies online without jeopardising their ability to apply to stay on and work in Canada after graduation for up to 3 years through the Post Graduate Work Program (PGWP). This will allow you to gain the necessary work experience needed to apply for permanent residency. But this is not an unconditional and ongoing process.

To qualify you will need to:

  • Start your study program in 2020;
  • Apply for a study permit before September 15; and
  • Complete at least half of your program in Canada.

That means that you can complete half of your study program in your home country. How amazing is that!

It is, however, important to note that Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will not deduct study time before the length of your PGWP up until 31 December 2020. How does this affect you? Let's take a look at the PGWP.



What is the Post Graduate Work Program?

graduates hugging holding diplomas |  study permit Canada

The PGWP or Post Graduate Work Program allows international students to stay on and work in Canada after they have graduated from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada. Normally, you would have had to completed your entire qualification in Canada in order to qualify, however, with the new 2 step process in place, you will be able to complete some of your qualifications in your home country, making it slightly more affordable and more convenient considering the strange circumstances that we all find ourselves in due to the pandemic. Although the PGWP permit is basically a temporary work permit, most immigration programs, such as the Canadian Experience Class as well as various Provincial Nominee Programs, require 1-2 years of work experience to qualify, which means that you will inevitably be able to gain permanent residency.

How Long Do I have to Apply?

You have to apply within 180 days after you receive your final marks.

How Long Does it Take to Process My Application?

At the moment, it will take up to 95 days.

What if I Haven’t Received My Marks Yet?

The best option is to apply for a visitor visa otherwise you will have to return home.

How Long is my PGWP Valid For?

This depends on how long your study program is:

Less than 8months - you are not eligible


8 months to 2 years - your PGWP permit will be valid for the same length of time as your program


2 years or longer - your PGWP permit may be valid for up to 3 years

Are you ready to start a new brighter future in Canada and need help with your visa or study permit application? Simply click the link below and let's get started!


Your Canadian Journey Starts Here

African American woman student working on laptop |  study permit Canada

Applying for a visa can be time-consuming and confusing. With strict deadlines, procedures and requirements to adhere to, it can be easy to make a mistake that could cost you your chance to migrate to Canada. But with the guidance and assistance of one of our knowledgeable Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants (RCIC’s), the process will be stress-free.

When you choose to use our expert and government trusted services, you will receive:

  • An in-depth eligibility assessment
  • Guidance on which of 100+ immigration programs and visas to choose from;
  • An immigration plan tailored to your individual needs;
  • A review and submission of all application forms and documentation; as well as
  • Support through every step of the application process.

All you have to do is fill out our application form to receive your eligibility assessment and let us take care of the rest. It’s just that simple! Your Canadian journey starts here.

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