Post-graduation work permits (PGWPs) are critical for international students aiming to gain post-graduation Canadian work experience, which is an essential bridge to their eligibility for permanent residence programs. Despite their importance, several factors can lead to Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) refusing a PGWP application.

It is important to note that receiving a PGWP is not automatic upon graduation.IRCC may deny applications for various reasons, some of which are detailed below.

Failure to Meet the Eligibility Criteria

Meeting specific eligibility criteria is essential for a PGWP. Applicants must:

• Complete a program of at least eight months at a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada.
• Maintain full-time student status throughout their studies, except for the final semester.
• Graduate with a degree, diploma, or certificate.
• Ensure their DLI is eligible for PGWP.

Quebec-based graduates must meet additional criteria depending on their credentials. Failure to meet any of these criteria can result in application refusal.

Absence of Required Documentation

A complete application includes:

• An official letter from the DLI confirming program completion.
• An official transcript from the DLI.
• A copy of the transcript from the DLI’s website.

Missing any of these documents can lead to refusal.

Unexplained Study Gaps

Students often take breaks due to emergencies or other uncontrollable factors. IRCC allows for authorized leaves of absence, but unexplained or unauthorized study gaps can result in application refusal.

Late Application Submission

Applications must be submitted within 180 days of the DLI issuing final grades. Missing this deadline is a common reason for refusal.

Failure to Maintain Legal Status

Applicants must ensure their study permit remains valid at some point during the 180 days allowed for applying for a PGWP. If the study permit expires before applying, students must either restore their status or leave Canada and apply from abroad. Maintaining legal status in Canada is crucial, and any violations can lead to refusal.

Additional Reasons for Refusal

Other reasons for refusal include:

• Studying part-time during any period other than the final semester.
• Working more than the authorized 20 hours per week during studies.
• Studying at a non-eligible institution.
• Errors by IRCC, though rare, can also lead to refusal, and applicants can request reconsideration if they believe an error was made.

International students should carefully adhere to these requirements to avoid the risk of their PGWP application being refused. Staying informed about any changes to PGWP eligibility criteria is also essential for future planning.