Counting my previous study time towards my work permit! Please help?

[smrthyandy]

Hello!

I am not sure if I have found a topic related to this in the forum so just wondering If I can get your help please!

I did my studies in Canada from 2008-2010 . I immediately moved back to India after completion as I had some important issues to attend to. I am back now in Canada to do further studies so I am on a Student visa. If anybody could help me answer the following questions , It would be well appreciated. Thanks in advance!

1) I have been in Canada now for 3 months. I know we need to be in the country for 6-8 months to apply for a work permit. Is it possible to count my previous studies in Canada ( 2 years ) towards my work permit now ?

2) Can I apply for a work permit immediately?

3) Or has my previous study time for 2 years gone completely waste and I have to stay 8 months more AGAIN to apply for a work permit?

Thank u thank u thank u so much for whoever can help me out with this.

Have a great day!
Andy

 

[scylla]

I assume you are asking about a Post Graduate Study Permit. If so, your previous studies cannot be counted towards a PGWP - they were completed far too long ago. You have to apply for a PGWP within 90 days of completing your program in Canada. So you are years too late and yes - your previous 2 years of studies have gone completely to waste.

To qualify for a PGWP, you will have to complete a program (diploma, degree, certificate) and a qualifying school that is at least 8 months in length and graduate successfully. However an 8 month program will only get you an 8 month PGWP. You should ideally complete a two year program so that you can qualify for a three year PGWP.