The Post-Graduation Job Permit (PGWP) is essential for overseas students seeking job experience and permanent residence (PR) in Canada. Maintaining full-time status each semester is essential for PGWP eligibility. Unplanned breaks can affect eligibility.
Although full-time status is required, the IRCC grants waivers under certain conditions:
- If the student didn’t work full-time during a break (such as the summer)
- If COVID-19 caused the student to stop studying or switch to part-time work between March 2020 and the fall semester
- If they worked part-time during their last semester
- If a student had an authorized leave of absence lasting less than 150 days.
Authorized absence
Students might request a study leave. The student’s Designated Learning Institution (DLI) issues this document to IRCC to justify a break of less than 150 days with approval. The only Canadian institutions that accept international students are DLIs.
Common Authorized Leave of Absence Reasons:
- Disease or injury Pregnancy/parental leave
- The family is in crisis
- Mandatory military service
- Program changes at the same school
- School suspension
Letter Requesting Authorized Leave of Absence
Each school has its own unique leave of absence protocol, although the overall method is the same. To request leave, students are usually required to submit a request form and accompanying paperwork. Students may also require immigration and travel documents.
- Copy of study permit
- Student visa/eTA copy
- A passport copy
At many schools, students can get advice from immigration professionals or international education hubs. These standards allow overseas students to take breaks from school without losing their post-graduation work permit.
