How to convert student visa to work permit in Canada

Canada is known for its diverse and thriving economy and offers a plethora of exciting work opportunities for fresh graduates.

As a multicultural and inclusive nation, Canada recognizes the value that you bring to its workforce.

With a strong emphasis on innovation, research, and development, the country has become a hotbed for professionals in various fields.

If you desire to stay back here and work after your academic journey, here is the proper way of converting student visa to work permit in Canada.

Whether you’re considering extending your stay in Canada or seeking to launch your professional career here, this process will make your transition easier.

One of the key advantages of converting student visa to work permit in Canada is the chance to gain valuable work experience in a global setting.

Canada boasts a stable and growing job market with opportunities in both established industries and emerging sectors.

Cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal are renowned for their thriving business ecosystems, offering numerous job openings and networking prospects.

Canadian employers value the international perspectives, cultural diversity, and academic knowledge that international students bring to the table.

Moreover, Canada prioritizes the well-being and rights of workers, ensuring fair wages, safe working conditions, and employment benefits.

Canada’s robust economy and labor market have been consistently attracting top talents from around the world.

By transitioning to a work permit, you open yourself up to a multitude of employment options in industries such as technology, healthcare, engineering, finance, agriculture, and more.

Can I convert student visa to work permit in Canada?

Yes, it is possible to convert a student visa to a work permit in Canada but you must complete an eligible program at a designated learning institution and have a valid study permit at the time of application.

By meeting these requirements, you can apply for a work permit and transition from being a student to a temporary worker in Canada.

Steps involved in converting student visa to work permit in Canada

To transition from a study permit to a work permit in Canada, you would typically need to graduate, choose a work path, apply, and get approval.

• Graduation

The first step to transitioning from a student visa to a work permit is completing your studies.

The Canadian government recognizes the importance of education and the value that international students bring to the country’s workforce.

Graduating from an eligible program demonstrates your commitment to academic excellence and your readiness to contribute to the Canadian labor market.

Generally, you have to complete a full-time program that is at least eight months in duration.

The program must be from a recognized and designated learning institution in Canada, such as a university, college, or vocational school, and should lead to a degree, diploma, or certificate.

Upon graduation, you should obtain the necessary documents from your institution, such as transcripts and a letter of completion.

These documents serve as evidence of your successful completion of the program and are crucial for your work permit application.

• Apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

Upon successful completion of your program of study at a designated learning institution in Canada, you become eligible to apply for a work permit under the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program.

The Canadian government offers the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program, which allows international students who have completed a program of study in Canada to work in the country.

With this program, you can transition from your student status to becoming a temporary worker in Canada.

Eligibility for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP):

To be eligible for a PGWP, you must meet the following criteria:

a) Completion of an eligible program: You must have completed a full-time program of study at a designated learning institution in Canada that was at least eight months in duration.

The program must lead to a degree, diploma, or certificate.

b) Valid study permit: You must have a valid study permit at the time of application for the PGWP.

c) Graduation from an eligible institution: The institution where you studied must be designated by the Canadian government to host international students.

Application Process for a PGWP:

Once you have completed your studies and meet the eligibility criteria, you can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit.

Here is a step-by-step guide to the application process:

• Step 1: Gather the required documents:

Before you start applying for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) in Canada, you need to gather all the required documents you need to submit with your application.

Having the necessary documents prepared in advance will help streamline mistakes in your application process and increase your chances of a successful outcome.

Here are the key documents you need to gather:

1. Passport: Ensure your passport is valid and will remain valid throughout your work permit application process.
2. Study Permit: You need a valid study permit to be eligible for the PGWP. Make sure your study permit is still valid at the time of your work permit application.
3. Transcripts and Proof of Graduation: Gather your official transcripts or academic records that demonstrate your successful completion of the program of study in Canada. These documents should be issued by your educational institution.
4. Letter of Completion: Obtain a letter of completion from your educational institution, which confirms that you have met all the academic requirements and have successfully graduated from your program of study.
5. Additional Supporting Documents: Depending on your specific circumstances, you may be required to provide additional documents. These could include language proficiency test results (e.g., IELTS), medical exams, proof of financial support, or any other documents requested by the immigration authorities.
6. Photographs: Prepare recent passport-sized photographs as per the specifications provided by the immigration authorities.

Once you have gathered all the necessary documents, ensure that you have copies of each document for your records.

Keep the originals safe and submit copies with your application.

• Step 2: Prepare your application package:

Now that you have all the required documents, you are ready to prepare your application package for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).

This step involves completing the application form, paying the application fee, and ensuring that all the necessary documents are included.

1. Complete the application form: Fill out the application form provided by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). You can complete the form online or in paper format. Provide accurate and up-to-date information, including personal details, educational history, and employment history if applicable.
2. Pay the application fee: There is an application fee associated with the PGWP. Though the fee may vary at the time of your application, it is usually a $100.00 CDN OWP holder fee with another $150.00 CDN WP processing fee. Ensure that you pay the fee using the accepted payment methods specified by IRCC.
3. Include all required documents: Double-check your application package to ensure that you have included all the required documents. This includes your completed application form, payment receipt, and all supporting documents mentioned in the document checklist provided by IRCC. Make sure you have copies of all the documents for your records.
4. Review and organize your application package: Before submitting your application, review all the documents to ensure accuracy and completeness. Verify that all forms are properly filled out, all required signatures are provided, and all documents are included. You need to organize your application package clearly and logically, with all documents securely fastened together.
5. Retain proof of submission: Once you have prepared your application package, make a copy of the complete package for your records. If you are submitting your application online, keep a digital copy of all the documents. If you are submitting by mail, consider sending your application package through a tracked and registered mail service to retain the proof of submission.

If you want to be considered for a work permit, then you need to carefully follow the instructions provided by IRCC regarding the application process and any specific requirements.

Missing or incomplete documentation can result in delays or even the rejection of your application.

• Step 3: Submit your application:

Once you are done crosschecking everything, submit your application online through the official Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.

You have up to 180 days after graduating to submit your Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) application.

• Step 4: Monitor your application:

You can check the status of your application through the IRCC online portal. Processing times may vary, so you need to be patient and check for any updates.

• Step 5: Receive your work permit:

Once your application is approved, you will receive your Post-Graduation Work Permit. The length of the permit depends on the duration of your study program, with a maximum of three years.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Can I work while studying in Canada?

Yes, as an international student in Canada, you can work part-time on or off-campus during your studies, depending on the conditions of your study permits.

Can international students work in Canada after graduation?

Yes, international students can work in Canada after graduation. They can apply for a work permit under the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program, which allows them to work in Canada for a specified period.

How many hours can a student work in Canada after graduation?

The number of hours a student can work in Canada after graduation depends on the type of work permit they hold.

If an international student has a valid PGWP, they are generally eligible to work full-time, which means up to 40 hours per week.

However, some exceptions and restrictions may apply, so you need to review the specific conditions of your work permit.

How long can international students stay in Canada after graduation without a work permit?

Without a work permit, international students are generally not allowed to work in Canada after graduation.

However, in some circumstances, you may be eligible to stay in Canada without a work permit for a limited period.

For example, you may be eligible for a post-graduation period to prepare to leave Canada, apply for a different immigration program, or extend your stay as a visitor.

The specific duration of staying in Canada without a work permit after graduation varies based on your circumstances.

Is it possible to extend my work permit after it expires?

Yes, you can extend your work permit or apply for permanent residency through various immigration programs.

How long can international students stay in Canada after graduation?

The duration of stay for international students in Canada after graduation depends on the type of work permit they hold.

With a valid PGWP, international students can typically stay in Canada for a period equal to the length of their study program, up to a maximum of three years.

What are the benefits of obtaining a work permit in Canada?

A work permit in Canada allows you to gain valuable work experience, explore career opportunities, and potentially transition to permanent residency.

Final Thoughts

Converting your study permit to a work permit in Canada opens up a world of possibilities for every international student in Canada.

It provides an avenue to gain practical work experience, enhance your skills, and potentially build a long-term career in Canada.

Remember to thoroughly review the eligibility requirements, gather all necessary documents, and follow the application process diligently.

Stay updated with the latest immigration policies and requirements by consulting official sources such as the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.

We hope this comprehensive guide has provided you with valuable insights into converting your study permit to a work permit in Canada.

Good luck on your journey to pursuing your dreams and building a successful future in Canada!