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Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

An open work permit that allows international graduates from eligible Canadian post-secondary institutions to gain essential Canadian work experience. This permit is a primary bridge for transitioning from temporary student status to permanent residency.

Stay

Up to 3 years, depending on the length of the study program; issued only once in a lifetime.

Processing

Approximately 80–180 days for online applications submitted within Canada.

Fees

CAD $255 (CAD $155 work permit fee + CAD $100 open work permit holder fee).

Work rights

Open work permit: allows you to work for almost any employer in Canada. Spouses may be eligible for an open work permit only if the PGWP holder secures a job in a TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 occupation that meets specific criteria.

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Overview

The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is a critical step for international students aiming to stay in Canada. It provides an open work permit, meaning you are not tied to a specific employer. This experience is vital for meeting the requirements of many permanent residence programs, such as the Canadian Experience Class (CEC).

Who qualifies

To qualify, you must have completed a program of study that was at least 8 months long (or 900 hours in Quebec) at a PGWP-eligible Designated Learning Institution (DLI). You must have maintained full-time student status during every academic session of your program. Recent changes (as of late 2024/2025) introduced field-of-study requirements for certain college programs and language proficiency requirements (CLB 5 for college graduates, CLB 7 for university graduates).

Application steps

  1. 1

    Step 1: Confirm Eligibility

    Verify that your institution is a DLI and that your specific program is eligible for the PGWP.

  2. 2

    Step 2: Obtain Proof of Graduation

    Request your official transcript and a letter of completion from your school once your final grades are posted.

  3. 3

    Step 3: Prepare Documents

    Gather your passport, proof of graduation, and any required language test results.

  4. 4

    Step 4: Submit Application

    Apply online through the IRCC portal before your study permit expires (within 180 days of receiving your final marks).

  5. 5

    Step 5: Pay Fees

    Pay the CAD $255 processing and open work permit holder fees.

Required documents

  • Valid passport
  • Official transcript
  • Letter of completion from your institution
  • Proof of language proficiency (if applicable)
  • Copy of your current study permit

PR, family, language & arrival

Path to longer stay / PR

The PGWP is designed to help you gain the Canadian work experience required for permanent residence programs like the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) under Express Entry or various Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP).

Family options

Spouses of PGWP holders are not automatically eligible for an open work permit. They may only apply if the PGWP holder is employed in a high-skilled occupation (TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3) that meets specific labour market criteria.

Language notes

Recent updates require proof of language proficiency for most applicants. College graduates typically need a minimum of CLB 5, while university graduates typically need CLB 7 in all four abilities.

After arrival

Once your PGWP is approved, you will receive your work permit. You can then begin working for almost any employer in Canada. Ensure you keep your contact information updated with IRCC and begin tracking your work hours for future PR applications.

Common pitfalls

  • Applying after the 180-day deadline
  • Choosing a non-eligible program or institution
  • Working without authorization during studies
  • Failing to maintain full-time student status
  • Letting your passport expire before applying

FAQs about Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

Who is the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) for?+

International students who have recently graduated from a PGWP-eligible program at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada.

What are the eligibility requirements for Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)?+

To qualify, you must have completed a program of study that was at least 8 months long (or 900 hours in Quebec) at a PGWP-eligible Designated Learning Institution (DLI). You must have maintained full-time student status during every academic session of your program. Recent changes (as of late 2024/2025) introduced field-of-study requirements for certain college programs and language proficiency requirements (CLB 5 for college graduates, CLB 7 for university graduates).

How much does the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) cost?+

Typical fees listed for Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP): CAD $255 (CAD $155 work permit fee + CAD $100 open work permit holder fee).. Always confirm on the official government site.

How long does Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) processing take?+

ImmigraPath currently lists processing time as: Approximately 80–180 days for online applications submitted within Canada..

How long can I stay on the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)?+

Up to 3 years, depending on the length of the study program; issued only once in a lifetime.

Can I work on the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)?+

Open work permit: allows you to work for almost any employer in Canada. Spouses may be eligible for an open work permit only if the PGWP holder secures a job in a TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 occupation that meets specific criteria.

Does Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) lead to permanent residence in Canada?+

The PGWP is designed to help you gain the Canadian work experience required for permanent residence programs like the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) under Express Entry or various Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP).

What are common mistakes with Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)?+

Applying after the 180-day deadline Choosing a non-eligible program or institution Working without authorization during studies

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