Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
The student after completing the Graduation if, doesn’t apply within 90 days of confirmation of graduation or falls out of status before applying for Work permit.
Work in Canada After Graduation
The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is an open work permit available to international students who have graduated from a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada. It allows graduates to gain valuable Canadian work experience, which can later help them qualify for permanent residency through programs such as Express Entry or the Canadian Experience Class.
Through this program, students can explore career opportunities, build networks, and start their professional journey in Canada.
Why Choose the Post-Graduation Work Permit?
- Open work permit: Freedom to work for almost any employer in Canada, in any location.
- Career advancement: Gain Canadian work experience that counts toward permanent residency programs.
- Direct PR pathway: Work experience gained under a PGWP supports eligibility for Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).
- One-time opportunity: Each graduate can receive a PGWP only once in their lifetime.
- Flexibility: Start working full-time immediately after applying, if you applied before your study permit expired.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for a PGWP, you must meet the following requirements:
Education
- Completed a program of study at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada.
- Program must be at least 8 months long.
- Must result in a degree, diploma, or certificate.
- At least 50% of your program must have been completed in-person in Canada.
Application Timeline
- Apply for a PGWP within 180 days (6 months) of receiving your final marks or official completion letter.
- You must hold a valid study permit at some point within those 180 days.
Status in Canada
- Must have maintained full-time student status during each semester of your program, except: Your final semester (part-time allowed if fewer courses remain). Approved leave of absence (medical or other).
Ineligible Situations
You cannot apply if you:
- Studied at a non-DLI institution (non-designated learning institution).
- Completed a program shorter than 8 months.
- Completed most of your studies through distance learning.
- Already received a PGWP once before.
- Participated in certain scholarship programs requiring you to return to your home country.
Work Permit Duration
The length of your PGWP depends on the length of your program of study:
- Program 8 months to <2 years → PGWP valid for the same length as your program.
- Program 2 years or longer → PGWP valid for up to 3 years.
- Multiple programs → If eligible and completed back-to-back, PGWP may combine durations (up to 3 years).
Important: PGWP validity will not exceed your passport validity. Renew your passport before applying to maximize your work permit duration.
Fees and Processing Times
- Application fee: CAD $255 (CAD $155 work permit processing + CAD $100 open work permit holder fee).
- Biometrics fee: CAD $85 (if required).
- Processing time: On average 80–180 days, depending on the volume of applications.
Work Conditions While Waiting
- If you apply before your study permit expires and meet eligibility, you can: Work full-time until a decision is made and work for any employer in Canada.
- If you apply after leaving Canada, you cannot work until the PGWP is approved.
Required Documents
Applicants must generally provide:
- Valid passport (ensure validity covers desired PGWP length).
- Completion letter and official transcript from your institution.
- Proof your institution is a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
- Study permit (valid or expired within 180 days).
- Digital photo.
- Proof of fee payment.
- Biometrics (if applicable).
Application Process
- Confirm Eligibility – Ensure your program and institution qualify.
- Gather Documents – Completion letter, transcript, passport, study permit.
- Apply Online – Submit PGWP application through IRCC within 180 days.
- Provide Biometrics – If required, attend your biometrics appointment.
- Wait for Processing – Continue working (if eligible) while IRCC reviews your file.
- Receive Work Permit – PGWP issued electronically or by mail.
How We Support You
At Shreehari Immigration, we guide international graduates through every step of the PGWP application:
- Eligibility check: Confirm your program and institution qualify.
- Application support: Ensure all forms and documents are complete and error-free.
- Status management: Advice on how to work legally while waiting for approval.
- Next steps: Guidance on transitioning from PGWP to permanent residency pathways.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. You can apply from abroad within 180 days of completing your program.
Yes, if you applied before your study permit expired and met eligibility requirements.
No. You can only receive a PGWP once in your lifetime.
It depends on your program length but maximum 3 years.
Yes. PGWP work experience counts toward Express Entry (CEC), Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), and other immigration streams.
Your PGWP will only be valid until your passport expires. Renew your passport before applying.
Take the Next Step
Book Your Consultation Today – Get personalized advice on securing your PGWP.
Get Your Free Eligibility Assessment – Check if your program qualifies for a PGWP.