Maintaining PGWP Eligibility During Study Breaks in Canada

Key Takeaways:

Full-time status and authorized breaks are crucial for PGWP eligibility; exceptions include medical, parental leave, and scheduled breaks.
Authorized leave requires DLI approval and supporting documentation; applies to medical, emergency, and program changes.
Recent updates: increased financial proof, work hour flexibility, PGWP changes, and specific spousal work permit eligibility.

How Can International Students in Canada Take a Break Without Losing Eligibility for a Work Permit?

The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is an essential document for international students aiming to gain work experience and build eligibility for permanent residency pathways in Canada. Maintaining full-time status throughout your studies is crucial for PGWP eligibility, which can be challenging when you need to take a break. This guide offers insights into taking a break without jeopardizing your eligibility for a Post-Graduation Work Permit.

Maintaining PGWP Eligibility During Study Breaks in Canada

What is Full-Time Status for PGWP Eligibility?

The Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) defines “full-time” students as those actively pursuing studies, generally taking at least three courses per semester. However, this can vary between institutions. It’s essential to consult your Designated Learning Institution (DLI) to understand their specific definitions and requirements.

Exceptions to Maintaining Full-Time Status

While maintaining full-time status is critical, IRCC offers exceptions in certain circumstances that allow students to take a break without affecting their PGWP eligibility:

Scheduled Breaks: This includes winter holidays, summer breaks, and reading weeks.
COVID-19 Adjustments: For periods between March 2020 and fall 2020 due to pandemic-related disruptions.
Final Semester: Students in their last semester are permitted to study part-time.
Authorized Leave of Absence: For legitimate reasons like medical issues or family emergencies, provided the leave is less than 150 days.

What is an Authorized Leave of Absence?

An authorized leave of absence is a formal approval from a DLI, allowing students to pause their studies for valid reasons without losing their PGWP eligibility. Reasons can include:

Medical Illness or Injury
Pregnancy or Parental Leave
Family Emergency
Mandatory Military Service
Change of Program at the Same School
Suspension from School

How to Request an Authorized Leave of Absence

The process to request an authorized leave of absence varies by institution. Generally, you will need to:

Submit a Request Form: Obtain and complete the required form from your DLI.
Provide Supporting Documentation: This may include medical certificates, emergency documentation, or military orders.
Consult Immigration Experts: Many DLIs have immigration experts or international education hubs to assist students.

For example, specific DLIs might have a dedicated process, and it’s advisable to check with them directly.

Specific Types of Authorized Leaves

Regularly Scheduled Breaks

These are academic breaks that don’t require special approvals:
– Summer Break
– Winter Holiday
– Reading Week or Spring Break

During these periods, eligible students can work full-time off-campus.

Medical Leave

For health-related absences:
– Approval from DLI: Obtain written approval from your institution.
– Medical Documentation: Secure documentation from a healthcare professional.
– IRCC Update: Ensure your student status is updated in the IRCC portal.

Maternity or Parental Leave

For the birth or adoption of a child:
– Documentation: Provide appropriate documentation such as a medical certificate or adoption papers.
– DLI Update: Your institution must update your status with IRCC.

Family Emergency Leave

Typically granted for serious family illness or death:
– Approval and Documentation: Obtain approval and provide necessary documentation to your DLI.
– IRCC Notification: Ensure your status is updated with IRCC.

Recent Changes and Updates for International Students

Off-Campus Work Hours

From January 1, 2024, to April 30, 2024, eligible full-time international students can work more than 20 hours per week off-campus. After April 30, 2024, the limit reverts to 20 hours per week.

Cost of Living Requirement

Starting January 1, 2024, students must demonstrate they have at least $20,635 CAD to cover living expenses, up from the previous $10,000.

PGWP Eligibility Changes

From September 1, 2024, students beginning programs under curriculum licensing arrangements will not be eligible for PGWPs upon graduation.

Master’s Graduates

Graduates of master’s programs will soon be eligible for three-year work permits, regardless of the program duration.

Spousal Work Permits

Only spouses of international students enrolled in master’s and doctoral programs will be eligible for open work permits.

Steps to Take a Leave Without Losing Work Permit Eligibility

Consult Your DLI’s International Student Office: Seek personalized advice to ensure you follow the correct procedures.
Submit Necessary Documentation: Provide all required documents, including immigration and travel documents.
Obtain Written Approval: Ensure that the DLI provides written approval and updates your status with IRCC.
Maintain Valid Study Permit: Ensure your study permit remains valid throughout your leave.
Return to Full-Time Studies on Time: Resume full-time studies as soon as the leave ends to maintain your eligibility.

Important Considerations

Study Permit Expiration

If your study permit is set to expire during your leave, apply for an extension beforehand.

Work Eligibility During Leave

Generally, you cannot work during an authorized leave unless it falls within regularly scheduled breaks.

Implications on PGWP

Exceeding 150 days of authorized leave may impact your eligibility for a PGWP.

Health Insurance and Housing

Check if your health insurance remains valid during your leave and discuss housing options with the campus office if needed.

Returning from an Authorized Leave

Notify Your DLI: Inform your institution of your return to studies.
Documentation: Ensure all necessary documents are in order.
Validate Study Permit: Check the validity of your study permit.
Update Contact Information: Make sure your contact details are current with both your DLI and IRCC.

Taking a break from your studies in Canada doesn’t have to compromise your eligibility for a work permit. By following these guidelines and seeking advice from your DLI’s international student office, you can manage breaks effectively while maintaining your status and future work opportunities.

For more details about maintaining your study permit and work eligibility, visit the official IRCC website.

By VisaVerge.com, these steps will help you navigate your temporary absences while keeping your academic and career goals on track.

Learn Today:

Glossary

1. Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

A work permit that allows international students who have graduated from a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada to gain valuable Canadian work experience. PGWP eligibility is linked to maintaining full-time student status throughout their studies, except for authorized breaks.

2. Full-Time Status

A designation for students who are actively pursuing their studies, typically taking at least three courses per semester. Maintaining this status is crucial for maintaining eligibility for the PGWP, although specific requirements can vary by institution.

3. Designated Learning Institution (DLI)

A school approved by a provincial or territorial government to host international students. The requirements and processes for authorized leaves or maintaining full-time status can vary between DLIs.

4. Authorized Leave of Absence

A formal approval from a DLI allowing international students to temporarily pause their studies for legitimate reasons—such as medical issues, family emergencies, or mandatory military service—without affecting their PGWP eligibility provided the leave is less than 150 days.

5. Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)

The Canadian federal government department responsible for matters dealing with immigration, refugees, and citizenship. The IRCC sets the rules and regulations for maintaining student status, work permits, and other immigration benefits in Canada.

This Article In A Nutshell:

International students in Canada can maintain Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligibility by staying full-time except during scheduled breaks or authorized leaves. To manage breaks without losing PGWP status, students should seek approval from their Designated Learning Institution and ensure their study permit and IRCC status are updated properly.
— By VisaVerge.com

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