Work after your studies

Studying in British Columbia can be a very exciting, once-in-a-lifetime experience. Some students return home after their studies, others stay and look for work here.

study and work in bc

Post-graduation work permit

To work in Canada after you graduate, you need a work permit. Graduates of certain designated learning institutions are eligible for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP).

If you’re not eligible for a PGWP, you may still be able to work in Canada after you graduate. The work experience you gain while working may help you qualify for permanent residence.

As of November 1, 2024, the eligibility requirements for a PGWP changed. Most PGWP applicants now need to give proof of language results when they apply. If you submitted your PGWP application before November 1, 2024, or are a flight school graduate, you’re exempt from the new requirements.

For more information about the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program, refer to IRCC’s post-graduation work permit page.

How do I apply?

Apply online

  1. Determine if you are eligible for a post-graduation work permit.
  2. Collect all required documents.
  3. Register for, or log into, your MyCIC account.

Paper application

If you can’t apply online, you can complete and mail a paper application.

Become a permanent resident after graduation

If you would like to become a permanent resident of Canada, and intend to work and reside in BC after you study, you may qualify to apply to the international student stream of the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BCPNP).

The BCPNP allows nominees to apply for Permanent Resident status through IRCC under the fast-tracked Provincial Nominee stream – which can be faster than applying through many federal immigration streams.

For more information on eligibility requirements and how to apply, visit the BCPNP website.

Express Entry

This IRCC initiative manages applications for permanent residence in Canada under specific federal economic immigration programs. Provinces and territories can also recruit candidates from the Express Entry pool for a portion of their Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) in order to meet local labour market needs.

International student graduates may apply under Express Entry if they meet the requirements.

For more information on eligibility requirements and how to apply, refer to IRCC’s express entry page.

How do I apply?

  1. Determine if you are eligible to apply for permanent residence under the Express Entry.
  2. Fill out an Express Entry profile online for entry into a pool of candidates.
  3. Await an invitation to apply for permanent residence from IRCC.

Career resources

Check out potential careers including the main duties, educational requirements, workforce trends, and job prospects.

  • WorkBC
    A one-stop window to the world of work in BC.
  • Career Trek
    Follow two hosts as they travel across BC and bring 147 careers to life.
  • Job Bank
    Learn about an occupation: available jobs, wages, career prospects, skills, job requirements and more.

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