Requirements to Stay After Canadian Language School: An Overview

Canada is one of the most desired destinations for students who want to improve their English language skills. The country has gained a reputation for providing top-notch language education, which is evident from the growing numbers of international students flocking in to study. However, after completing a language program, many students choose to remain in Canada. Staying after a language program ends usually involves applying for a study permit extension or work permit through the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program (PGWPP). In this article, we’ll discuss the requirements necessary to stay in Canada after completing a language course.

Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWPP)

The Post-Graduation Work Permit Program (PGWPP) is a work permit designed for students who have completed their studies from a Canadian university or college. The aim of the PGWPP is to provide international students with Canadian work experience, making them more competitive in their fields of interest.

After successfully completing a language program of at least 8 months duration, international students can apply for the PGWPP to stay in Canada for a specified period. The length of the PGWPP is dependent on the length of the study program. This means that you can stay in Canada for as long as the duration of your language course has been.

Study Permit Extension

If you are unable to qualify for the PGWPP, you can apply for a study permit extension. To be eligible for a study permit extension, you must be able to demonstrate to the Canadian authorities that you are taking a post-secondary program, and you must be enrolled as a full-time student.

The advantage of applying for a study permit extension in Canada is that you can continue to develop your language skills while studying in Canada. Also, with a study permit, you can work part-time on-campus or off-campus if it is legal.

Requirements to Stay After Canadian Language School

Meet Language School’s requirements

The first requirement to stay in Canada after completing your language studies is to meet the language school’s requirements. Each language school has its own unique set of requirements that must be fulfilled before graduation. International students should ensure that they have met the academic requirements of their language school before seeking to stay in Canada.

Proof of Funds

It is essential to show that you have funds to support your stay in Canada. You must prove that you can pay for your living expenses and education fees in Canada. Generally, international students should show they have a minimum of $10,000 CAD for their initial year of study in Canada. If you are applying for a study permit extension, you will need to show that you can afford the tuition fees for the program that you are enrolled in.

Health Insurance

One of the primary requirements to stay in Canada after completing your language course is health insurance. International students must have adequate health insurance coverage while studying in Canada. This insurance should cover medical and hospital expenses, repatriation, and public liability. It is also mandatory to get tested for TB.

English Language Proficiency Test

The English language proficiency test is a mandatory exam that international students need to undertake before applying to stay in Canada. Most international students must have a language proficiency score that meets the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) to be eligible to study in Canada. However, after completing a language course, students may need to take the IELTS or CELPIP (if you are applying for PR).

Background Check

The Canadian government requests a background check from international students before allowing them to stay in Canada after completing their language program. This check confirms that applicants have not been involved in criminal activities in their home countries or in Canada.

Study Permit Expiration Date

International students must check their study permit expiration dates as they plan to continue staying in Canada after completing their language program. An expired study permit can result in deportation or a ban from Canada.

Letter of Introduction and Valid Passport

International students must ensure that their passports are valid for at least six more months. This is important because the Letter of Introduction provided by the Canadian authorities will show the length of validity for the work or study permit that you are seeking.

For study permit extension, you will need to submit the renewed passport copy and proceed with the application. For PGWPP, you’ll need to apply for a passport renewal and then submit the renewed passport and other documents.

FAQs

Q: Can I work while studying at the language school in Canada?

Yes, international students enrolled in a language school in Canada are allowed to work part-time (up to 20 hours per week) on campus and off-campus (after six months) with proper permission.

Q: How long can I stay in Canada after completing my language course?

International students can stay in Canada up to the length of their language study course, with a minimum of 8 months duration. After that, they can apply for a study permit extension or the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program.

Q: Can I apply for Permanent Residency after completing a language program in Canada?

Yes, you can apply for PR after completing a language school program in Canada but not directly. You will need to further study and continue working, which could lead to the PR application process.

Q: What happens if my study permit expires before I complete my language program?

If your study permit expires before you finish your language program, you may be able to apply for a study permit extension. You should apply for the extension 30-60 days before your current permit expires, and you should indicate on your application that you need a new permit to complete your language program.

Q: Can I apply for a work permit extension instead of a study permit extension after completing my language program?

Yes, you can apply for a work permit extension instead of a study permit extension if you are eligible for the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program. However, your work permit application will depend on your eligibility, and you should check with the Canadian government’s website for more information.

Q: Can I return to my home country and come back to Canada to study after completing the language program?

Yes, you can leave Canada after completing your language course and return to your home country. You should ensure that your study permit is still valid for your return, and that you have all the appropriate documentation to re-enter Canada.

Conclusion

Studying a language program in Canada and staying after its completion requires proper planning, research, and application of necessary documents. International students who are planning to stay in Canada must fulfill all requirements related to health, finances, background checks, and language proficiency test. They must also ensure the validity of their passports and study permit until the completion of their language course programs. By following the above requirements, international students can continue their stay in Canada for further study and work opportunities.