Post Graduate Work Permit

­International students may obtain an open work permit, with no restriction on the type of employment and no requirement for a job offer. ­ ­In addition, the duration of the work permit has been extended to three years across the country. ­ A minimum of one year work experience in managerial, professional or technical positions (i.e. at level O, A or B under the National Occupational Classification/NOC system) will be necessary to apply to stay permanently through the Canadian Experience Class.

Requirements:

➢Must have studied full-time for the 8 months preceding the completion of their program of studies and have graduated from a degree-granting institution;

➢Must apply within 90 days of receiving written confirmation that they have met the requirements of the academic program;

➢Must have completed and passed the program of study & received notification that they are eligible to obtain their degree, diploma or certificate;

➢Must have a valid study permit when they apply for the work permit.

•If the program of study is less than 2 years but at least 8 months, the validity of the work permit will not be longer than the period of study. •Available only once • •For graduates of a 2-yr program (or longer), eligible for full 3-year Open Post-Grad Work Permit.

Work Permits for Spouses

  Spouses/Common-law (including same-sex) Partners of persons on Study and Work Permits may qualify to obtain OPEN Work Permits

Spouses may obtain work permits for employment in the general labour market as long as:  §The foreign student is the holder of a study permit & attending a full-time post-secondary degree or diploma granting institution; or       •After graduation, the foreign student has a valid work permit valid for at least 6 months for a qualifying job •May work in general labour market. Positions in medical or childcare require medical examination.