What is a PGWP?
A Post-Graduation Work Permit is an open work permit that allows international students who have graduated from eligible Canadian institutions to gain valuable Canadian work experience.
Permit Duration
Open Work Permit
In Canada
Eligibility Requirements
Graduated from PGWP-Eligible DLI
Your school must be a Designated Learning Institution eligible for PGWP. Not all DLIs qualify - verify before enrolling.
Completed 8-Month Program (or 900 hours in Quebec)
Program must be at least 8 months in duration and lead to a degree, diploma, or certificate.
Full-Time Student Status
You must have been a full-time student throughout your program (part-time allowed in final semester only).
Applied Within 180 Days
Apply within 180 days of receiving written confirmation of program completion. Must have held valid study permit during this period.
Language Proficiency (2024+ applicants)
CLB 7 (Bachelor's/Master's/Doctoral) or CLB 5 (College/Polytechnic). Test results must be less than 2 years old.
Field of Study (2024+ study permits)
If study permit was issued November 1, 2024 or later, program must align with eligible occupations in long-term shortage.
PGWP Duration
Work permit length depends on your program duration
Less than 8 months (or 900 hours Quebec)
Not eligible for PGWP
Master's degree (8+ months or 900+ hours)
3-year PGWP (February 15, 2024+ graduates)
8 months to less than 2 years
PGWP valid for same length as program
2 years or more
3-year PGWP
Multiple programs totaling 2+ years
3-year PGWP (if each program is 8+ months)
Important Notes:
- •PGWP cannot exceed 3 years regardless of program length
- •Your passport must be valid for the duration of your PGWP (can extend with new passport)
- •You can only receive one PGWP in your lifetime
- •Master's degree rule applies to graduates from February 15, 2024 onward
- •Cannot combine certificates/diplomas with master's rule
Why Get a PGWP?
Canadian Work Experience
Gain valuable Canadian work experience that significantly improves your Express Entry CRS score.
Pathway to PR
One year of skilled Canadian work experience makes you eligible for Canadian Experience Class.
Employer Flexibility
Work for any employer anywhere in Canada. Switch jobs as often as you like.
Networking
Build professional networks, Canadian references, and industry connections.
Income Opportunity
Earn Canadian income, pay off student loans, and establish financial stability.
Extended Stay
Stay in Canada for up to 3 years after graduation while planning your next steps.
New Requirements (2024)
Important changes for recent applicants
Language Testing Requirements
Bachelor's, Master's, or Doctoral Degrees:
CLB/NCLC 7 in all four language areas (reading, writing, listening, speaking)
College, Polytechnic, or Other Programs:
CLB/NCLC 5 in all four language areas
Accepted Tests:
- • CELPIP-General
- • IELTS General Training
- • PTE Core
- • TEF Canada (French)
- • TCF Canada (French)
Test results must be less than 2 years old when you apply.
Field of Study Requirements
If your study permit was issued on or after November 1, 2024, your program must be in an eligible field of study linked to occupations in long-term shortage in Canada.
Exemptions:
- • PGWP applications submitted before November 1, 2024
- • Study permits issued before November 1, 2024
- • Flight school graduates
Application Process
Complete Your Program
Finish all program requirements and meet your school's graduation criteria.
Get Confirmation Letter
Obtain official letter from your institution confirming program completion, or wait for official transcript.
Gather Required Documents
Collect completion letter/transcript, passport, study permit, language test results (CLB 7 or 5), and field of study proof (if applicable).
Apply Within 180 Days
Submit PGWP application online within 180 days of receiving confirmation of completion.
Pay Fees & Biometrics
Pay work permit fee ($255) + biometrics fee ($85 individual) = $340 total. Additional fees may apply if restoring status.
Work While Waiting
You can work full-time while your PGWP application is being processed (if eligible).
Receive PGWP
Once approved, receive your Post-Graduation Work Permit and start building your career!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Applying Too Late
Solution: Apply as soon as you receive your completion letter. Don't wait until day 179!
Wrong Completion Date
Solution: Use the date on your official completion letter or transcript, not your ceremony date.
Studying Part-Time
Solution: Maintain full-time status throughout your program (except final semester).
Choosing Ineligible School
Solution: Verify your DLI is PGWP-eligible before enrolling. Not all DLIs qualify.
Multiple PGWPs
Solution: You can only get one PGWP in your lifetime. Choose your timing wisely.
Leaving Canada Too Soon
Solution: If applying from outside Canada, special rules apply. Best to apply while in Canada.