Employment in Alberta

Working after Graduation

workWork after you Graduate

After graduating from a post-secondary institution in Alberta, you are eligible to work in Alberta on a full-time basis for up to three years.  This is an exceptional opportunity for immediately applying your education in the workplace, and to gain valued work experience and employer references. 

Post-Graduation Work Permit Program 

The Post-Graduation Work Permit Program allows students who have graduated from a participating Canadian post-secondary institution to gain valuable Canadian work experience.

A work permit under the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program cannot be valid for longer than the student’s study program. For example, if you graduate from a four-year degree program, you could be eligible for a three-year work permit if you meet the criteria. If you graduate from an eight-month certificate program, you would be eligible for a work permit that is valid for no more than eight months.  

Seeking permanent residence in Canada

Alberta welcomes international students wishing to seek permanent residence after graduating, through the Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP).  The AINP is an employer driven immigration program operated by the Alberta Government and Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC).  It was designed to quickly expedite applications for permanent residence. As an International Student, you may qualify under the “International Graduate” category.  Those individuals nominated by the Province of Alberta, together with their spouse and dependent children, are eligible to apply for permanent residency.  CIC grants priority to processing permanent resident visa applications for Provincial Nominees.  To find out more, visit the Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program

Canadian Experience Class

If you are a temporary foreign worker or a foreign student who graduated in Canada, you often have the qualities to make a successful transition from temporary to permanent residence. You are familiar with Canadian society and can contribute to the Canadian economy. You should have knowledge of English or French and qualifying work experience.

Applying to stay in Canada permanently in your case is simple. You can do this under the Canadian Experience Class. All the guides, information and forms you need to apply are included here.