After Graduation

In Canada, we follow Common Law. The Legal system is complex with many different opportunities and challenges that can be challenging to navigate. Luckily, some organizations may be able to help you out.

• Legal Aid Ontario - provides legal aid services for low income individuals. Services are funded by the Province of Ontario to provide services including summary legal advice for family and criminal law matters.
• Hamilton Community Legal Clinic - a community based not for profit agency whose diverse team of caring professionals and volunteers provides legal services to low income individuals and communities to promote access to justice and to improve quality of life. The Clinic provides services like summary advice and referral, representation, community development, law reform and public legal education.

The City of Hamilton welcomes and encourages our international students to stay and work in Canada after graduation. If you are here on a student/study visa, you will have to apply for a work visa upon graduation. A work visa allows you to work in Canada for up to three years following graduation.

Some resources to help you understand how to apply to be a permanent resident in Canada:

• Settlement.org
• Ontario Ministry of Citizenship and Immigration
• International Student Connect is an excellent resource for international students, from before you arrive, during your studies, and after you graduate.
• Applying for Canadian Citizenship

To work in Canada after graduation, international students will need a work permit. Graduates of certain designated learning institutions are eligible for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP), but they must meet other requirements related to language proficiency and field of study. Learn more about the Post-graduation Work Permit