Post-Graduation Work Permit

Canada’s Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is a popular pathway for international students who have completed their studies at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada. The PGWP allows graduates to gain valuable work experience in Canada, which can improve their chances of qualifying for permanent residency through various immigration programs. 

The PGWP is an open work permit that allows international graduates to work anywhere in Canada, for any employer, without the need for a job offer. It provides an excellent opportunity to gain Canadian work experience, which can be a significant advantage when applying for permanent residence through Canada’s various immigration streams. The duration of the PGWP ranges from 8 months to 3 years, depending on the length of the student’s program at a DLI.

To be eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit, international students must meet specific requirements:

• Completion of a Study Program: The applicant must have completed an eligible academic, vocational, or professional program in Canada that is at least 8 months long at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). The program must lead to a degree, diploma, or certificate.

• Full-Time Student Status: The applicant must have maintained full-time student status in Canada throughout their program. 

• Graduation from an Eligible DLI: The applicant must have received an official transcript and letter confirming the completion of the program of study from a DLI that is recognized by the Canadian government.

As of November 1, 2024, applicants must provide proof of language proficiency at a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level 7 for university graduates or CLB level 5 for college graduates.

The duration of the PGWP depends on the length of the program completed. Here’s a breakdown of how long your work permit might last:

• Program under 8 months: Not eligible for a PGWP.
• Program between 8 months and less than 2 years: PGWP will be valid for the same length as the study program (e.g., a 10-month program results in a 10-month PGWP).
• Master’s programs less than 2 years: PGWP is now valid for 2 years if the applicant meets all other eligibility criteria.
• Program of 2 years or more: PGWP will be valid for 3 years.
• Multiple Programs: If you complete more than one program, you may be able to combine them to receive a PGWP, provided each program is over 8 months long and both are from a DLI.

Update for 2024: Graduates of master’s programs lasting less than two years are now eligible for a 3-year PGWP, if they meet all other conditions.

The deadline to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit is within 180 days (6 months) of receiving an official transcript and letter confirming that you have completed your program of study. If your study permit expires before you receive these documents, you have two options:

1. Apply for a visitor record to extend your stay in Canada.
2. Leave Canada and apply for the PGWP from abroad.

Make sure you apply within the timeframe to avoid losing eligibility for the permit.

Additionally, they must apply for the permit within 180 days of receiving written confirmation of their program's completion.

The PGWP is a vital tool in Canada's efforts to attract and retain talented individuals from around the world. By offering international students the opportunity to gain Canadian work experience, the program not only benefits the graduates themselves but also contributes to the country's economy and cultural diversity.