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Work Permit Program
Post-Graduation Work Permit
The PGWP allows international students who graduate from eligible Canadian institutions to gain valuable work experience. It is a key stepping stone to permanent residence.
Processing Time
80-180 days (varies by application volume)
Application Fee
$255 CAD
Documents
7 Required
PR Pathway
Available
Program Overview
About Post-Graduation Work Permit
The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is an open work permit for international students who complete a program at a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada. It allows graduates to work for any employer.
PGWP duration depends on your program length. Programs of 8 months to 2 years get a PGWP matching the program length. Programs of 2+ years get a 3-year PGWP.
Recent changes require graduates of certain programs to have jobs in their field of study to be eligible for PGWP. The eligible fields list is updated periodically by IRCC.
Work Permit Conditions
Can work for any employer in Canada
Duration based on program length (8 months to 3 years)
Cannot be extended or renewed
Once per lifetime (cannot get second PGWP)
Free Work Permit Assessment
Find out if you qualify for a PGWP work permit. Our RCIC-licensed consultants will review your profile and provide guidance.
Book ConsultationGet Document ChecklistRCIC License: R515110
Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
Meet these requirements to qualify for Post-Graduation Work Permit.
Graduated from an eligible DLI program
Program was at least 8 months in duration
Maintained full-time student status throughout
Applied within 180 days of receiving final marks/graduation
Valid study permit at time of application (or had one)
Program and field of study meet current PGWP eligibility criteria
How to Apply
Application Process
Step-by-step guide to applying for Post-Graduation Work Permit.
1
Confirm Eligibility
Verify your program and institution qualify. Check the current eligible fields of study list if applicable.
2
Get Completion Letter
Obtain an official letter from your institution confirming program completion and graduation date.
3
Apply Within 180 Days
Submit your PGWP application within 180 days of receiving your final marks or completion letter.
4
Implied Status
If you apply before your study permit expires, you can start working full-time under implied status while waiting for PGWP.
5
Receive PGWP
Upon approval, receive your PGWP. Begin working for any eligible employer.
Documentation
Required Documents
Gather these documents before starting your application.
Valid passport
Completion letter from institution
Transcript or final marks
Copy of study permit
Proof of full-time study (if required)
Processing fees
Photographs
Costs
Application Fees
Government fees for PGWP work permit applications.
Work Permit Application
$255 CADBiometrics
$85 CAD (if required)* Fees are subject to change. Check IRCC website for current rates.
Pathway to Permanent Residence
How PGWP can lead to Canadian PR
The PGWP is specifically designed to help international students gain Canadian work experience for permanent residence. One year of skilled work on PGWP qualifies you for Canadian Experience Class through Express Entry.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Post-Graduation Work Permit
What is the maximum PGWP duration?
3 years. Programs of 2+ years get 3-year PGWPs. Shorter programs get PGWPs matching the program length (minimum 8 months).
Can I extend my PGWP?
No, PGWPs cannot be extended or renewed. You can only receive one PGWP in your lifetime. Plan your PR pathway before it expires.
What if my study permit expired before I graduated?
You may still be eligible if you had valid study permit status when applying and applied within 180 days of graduation. Consult an immigration consultant.
Do I need a job offer for PGWP?
No, PGWP is an open work permit. You can work for any employer without a job offer. However, some programs now require jobs in your field of study.
What are the eligible fields of study?
IRCC publishes a list of eligible fields for PGWP. Healthcare, STEM, trades, and certain other fields are typically included. The list is frozen for 2026.
Ready to Apply for PGWP?
Book a consultation with our RCIC-licensed consultants. We'll assess your eligibility and guide you through the application process.