Each year, Canada welcomes thousands of international students from around the globe and have remained one of the top countries for students wanting to study abroad. The allure of Canada continues to persist, although the 2020-2021 period has been and remains fraught with unprecedented modifications to rules, regulations and restrictions brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite this, students are still applying to study in Canada due to its long-lasting benefits and privileges. Some of these have been highlighted below.
Work while Studying
Most post-secondary students who are enrolled in a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) on a full-time basis are permitted to work on and off campus for a maximum of 20 hours/week during a regular academic session without the need to secure a work permit. However, they are permitted to work on a full-time basis during regularly scheduled breaks such as reading week and winter and summer breaks.[1] This may provide the flexibility to assist with living expenses and building personal and professional networks which could support their resume once they have completed their studies.
Work Permit for Spouses and Common-law Partners and Study Permit for Minors
Spouses and common-law partners of full-time students may also apply for an open work permit which will allow them to seek employment without the need to first secure an offer of employment or a positive Labour Marker Impact Assessment (LMIA).[2] The application for a work permit can be submitted together with the study permit application or after. Minor children are also eligible for a study permit without the need to first secure a Letter of Acceptance.
Work after Graduation
The Post-graduate Work Permit Program (PGWPP) allows international students who have completed their studies at an eligible DLI to apply for an open work permit, allowing them to gain valuable work experience provided they meet the eligibility criteria. The length of the work permit coincides with the length of the study program. For instance, if the program is 1 year in length, a work permit with a validity of 1 year will be issued. On the other hand, if the program is at least 2 years, the work permit will have a validity of 3 years.[3] When selecting the DLI, applicants should ensure that the institution of choice is PWGPP eligible if they intend to secure a work permit after graduation.
Pathway to Permanent Residence
The work experience garnered though the PGWPP will position a student to apply for permanent residence under the Canadian Experience Class under the Express Entry Program. They must have at least one year of Canadian work experience in NOCs 0, A or B to qualify. The program is a points-based system and points are awarded for various factors such as age, language proficiency, level of education and work experience. The candidate can include their spouse or common-law partner and dependent children as accompanying family members in their application for permanent residence.
Prior to being granted a study permit, applicants must ensure they meet Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada’s (IRCC) requirements which include, but is not limited to, satisfying the officer that they will leave Canada at the end of their stay as well as showing sufficient funds to cover living expenses and tuition.
Our sole aim is to increase an applicant’s chances of receiving a positive decision which includes utilizing all legal tools available to anticipate and tackle any concerns that may arise while the application is being processed. If you need assistance or want to learn more, you may send us an email at info@johnsonlawils.com or reach out to us using our contact form.
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