Pathway to PR

[Neska]

I am on a study permit for a year. I am currently working. My one-year course gives me a year of PGWP. Can I apply for PR under the Canadian Experience Class? I work as a pastry chef at a renowned restaurant. Does this make me eligible? Can i also extend my work permit after the duration of the PGWP to maintain legal status?

 

[scylla]

I am on a study permit for a year. I am currently working. My one-year course gives me a year of PGWP. Can I apply for PR under the Canadian Experience Class? I work as a pastry chef at a renowned restaurant. Does this make me eligible? Can i also extend my work permit after the duration of the PGWP to maintain legal status?

Generally speaking, only having a 1 year PGWP is regarded as risky if your aim is to get PR. It is much better to complete two years of studies to qualify for a 3 year PGWP.

You can submit an Express Entry profile under CEC provided you get at least one year of full time work experience. You cannot count work experience gained during your studies. You can only count work experience gained after you applied for your PGWP. Note that whether you are selected and get PR will depend on how many points you have vs. other candidates in the pool.

To extend your work permit after your PGWP expires, your employer must be willing to obtain an approved LMIA so that you can switch to a closed work permit. The LMIA process is fairly long and expensive for employers. Many employers are not willing to go through this process. You would want to find out early on from your employer if they are willing to do this or not.