Applying for a post-graduation work permit
As an international student, you may apply for a work permit after you finish your studies. This process is simple and straightforward. Here are the things to keep in mind.
Are you eligible?
To receive a post-graduation work permit, you must have been studying full-time in Canada on a continuous basis and meet several eligibility requirements. These requirements can change at any time. Check the government website regularly during your application process. For your information, a new requirement asking a mandatory language test for everyone has been in effect since November 1, 2024. The French test center of University of Montreal offers the TEF Canada and preparation workshops.
Working while you wait
- Even before you apply for a permit, you can work up to 24 hours per week.
- Once you’ve applied online for a work permit, you will be allowed to work full-time, on the condition that you hold a valid study permit..
- If your study permit has expired and you have not yet received your work permit, as long as you live in Canada, you will be living with what’s called implied status. That means you can continue to work in Canada until a decision is made. Find out more about what happens if you leave Canada.
Before applying for your permit
- It’s not compulsory, but it is strongly recommended that you have a valid study permit when you apply for a work permit.
- Request a proof of graduation letter and your final transcript. Both are needed for your post-graduation work permit application. Contact Zone Info if you haven’t yet received them and your permit is about to expire.
- Work permit eligibility may extend to your partner or spouse. Find out what steps to take.
Do you need to provide your biometrics?
Biometrics are valid for 10 years. Use this tool to find out if yours are still valid.
Applying
You can apply online from within Canada, from abroad or at the US border.
Apply online from within Canada
There is a fee for this service: List of fees
Step 1: Log in or create your MyCIC account by clicking on “Continue to Sign-In Partner” or “Continue to GCKey.”
Forgot your sign-in details? Create a new account by using one of these two ways to sign in.
Step 2: Click on “Apply to come to Canada”.
Step 3: The system will take you through a series of questions.
The form that students complete to request this type of document should look like the one below.
You should end up with the below result.
Step 4: At the end of the questionnaire, you will need to upload the required documents. The designated learning institution number for HEC Montréal is O19359011058. You will need to complete and submit the IMM 5710 form, but will not need to sign it.
Applying at the border
Since June 21,2024, you can no longer apply for a PGWP at a port of entry (airport or land border). In other words, flagpoling at the United states border is no longer allowed.
After you receive your permit
- You will be covered by the Quebec Health Insurance Plan for as long as your post-graduation work permit is valid.
- Apply for a Social Insurance Number (SIN) or renew the one you already have.
- If needed to enter Canada, your temporary resident visa (TRV) can be renewed.
- Find out about your tax obligations.