Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) for International Students in Canada

Why Canada Remains a Top Destination for International Students 

The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program in Canada allows eligible international students to work after their studies, provided they hold valid permits, and their applications follow IRCC guidelines. 

Canada continues to be a welcoming and vibrant destination with its world-class education system, diverse culture, and inclusive environment, offering an unparalleled experience for those seeking to study abroad.  

The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program is a testament to Canada’s commitment to supporting international graduates. This permit allows students who have completed eligible programs at Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) to gain valuable work experience, which can significantly enhance their career prospects and help them transition to permanent residency. 

What is a PGWP?

A Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is an open work permit that allows international students who have completed a program at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada to work in the country. This permit provides valuable work experience that can be used to apply for permanent residency in the future. 

Please note: International students need to be aware that PGWPs are not guaranteed after graduation. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada will not give every international student a PGWP simply because they have graduated. Applications may be refused for failure to meet eligibility criteria, which is why students are always urged to seek expert advice before choosing a program. Graduates of eligible programs at recognized DLIs can apply for a PGWP, granting them the flexibility to work for any employer across Canada without needing a job offer before applying.  

For students who are eligible, the length of a PGWP depends on the level and duration of your study program, as well as the expiry date of your passport, whichever comes first. Starting February 15, 2024, students graduating from master’s degree programs of less than 2 years (8 months minimum) may be eligible for a 3-year PGWP.  

Who Can Apply for a PGWP?

You may be eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit if you meet the following criteria: 

• you have completed an eligible program at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) that was at least 8 months long 

• your program led to a degree, diploma, or certificate 

• you maintained full-time student status in Canada during each academic session of your study program, with exceptions for the final semester (studying part-time or taking approved leave) 

• you have a study permit that has been valid within the last 180 days 

• you applied to extend your study permit in Canada before your study permit expired and no decision has been made on your application. 

Changes to PGWP Eligibility in 2024    

As of September 2024, new rules will affect students who have attended programs under curriculum licensing agreements between private and public colleges. Under this policy, students enrolled in such private institutions will no longer be eligible for a PGWP.   

International students who begin a study program that is part of a curriculum licensing agreement will no longer be eligible for a PGWP after graduating. Under these agreements, students attend a private college that has been licensed to deliver the curriculum associated with a public college. In simpler terms, if a public college has established licensing agreements with a private college, and a student is enrolled in the private college, they will not be eligible for a PGWP. 

Speak to an IDP Canada counsellor to find out if your concerned you program affects your eligibility. 

Here’s How to Apply for a PGWP 

Please note: As of June 21, 2024, students can no longer apply for a PGWP at a port of entry (airport, land or marine border) when entering Canada. 

To apply for a PGWP after you graduate, students must submit their application within 180 days of receiving official notification that they have completed their program. The following conditions must also be met:

• your study permit must be valid (not expired) at the time of submission 

• you must confirm that you attended and completed your program, with a degree or diploma, transcript, or official letter of completion of studies from your school. 

The IRCC may request other documents once it receives your application. 

Your application may be rejected if: 

• it does not adhere to IRCC’s eligibility criteria 

• required documents are missing 

• there are unexplained study gaps 

• you submit after 180 days 

• you fail to maintain legal status in Canada. 

If your study permit expires before you apply for a PGWP, you can either restore your status as a student and apply for a PGWP or leave the country and apply from outside Canada. 

What is the IRCC Application Process? 

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada offers an online system for students to apply for a PGWP. Students must create an account on the IRCC portal, complete the application forms, upload all supporting documents requested, and pay the required fees. Processing times vary, so check the IRCC website for updates regularly. 

The IRCC recommends online applications because students don’t have to pay courier fees, applications may be processed quicker, more documents can be submitted faster if requested, and updates come directly to your account. 

Eligibility for a 3-Year PGWP

The Canadian government has announced changes to the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program. Three-year work permits for bachelor's, master's, and doctoral graduates are offered to public college graduates if their field of study is linked to labour market shortages. 

There are also new language proficiency requirements for applicants starting November 1, 2024, when the government is expected to release further information on eligibility changes based on the level of study.

There are eligibility guidelines for all other programs, so it is recommended that students speak to a trained IDP Canada counsellor for help, advice, or information on choosing the right program. 

Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) and PGWP 

The IRCC may still refuse an applicant’s PGWP application even if they’ve graduated from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). Graduation from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) does not automatically make you eligible for a PGWP. Students need to check whether a program is listed on the DLI list as eligible for a PGWP. 

Work Permit Status after Graduation

Students need to make sure their study permits are valid (not expired) at the time they submit their PGWP application. Once you apply and, if you were eligible to work off campus during your studies, you can continue to work while the IRCC processes your PGWP application. You will receive a letter to confirm this, and the letter can be used as proof of your authorization to work in Canada. 

Permit Expiry Process

If your PGWP or study permit is about to expire, you can apply for an extension or to restore your status. The IRCC provides options for students to apply for a visitor record if they need more time in Canada while awaiting a permit. It is important for students to check the expiry dates of their permits and apply for extensions well in advance. 

If you don’t change your status to a visitor and your study permit expires, you have up to 90 days to apply for a PGWP and restore your status as a student. You will have to apply online for your PGWP and pay the required permit fee, as well as a fee to restore your status as a student. Check the IRCC page for payment details and more information about eligibility.

Full-Time Work Eligibility for International Students 

PGWP and Immigration Pathways

Obtaining a PGWP can be a major step for students who intend to become permanent residents in Canada. Work experience gained through a PGWP is valuable when applying for permanent residency under programs like the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). 

The National Occupation Classification lists all occupations in the Canadian labour market according to training, education, experience and responsibilities (TEER) categories. It is a helpful tool for permanent residency applicants to make informed decisions. 

IDP Canada has also teamed up with trusted immigration consulting partners to help IDP students build their lives in Canada after graduation. 

Find out about how our immigration partners can help. 

Move Towards a PGWP with Confidence

Obtaining a PGWP is not a simple task. It is important that students do their research on whether they are eligible for a PGWP based on their program of study from a designated learning institution (DLI). It is also important to understand the eligibility criteria, all documents required for a complete application, the importance of maintaining legal status in Canada while applying for a PGWP, and why IRCC may refuse an application. 

The first step is choosing the right program because it defines your academic and career path in Canada. Speaking to an IDP Canada counsellor can help students find the best program, make sense of application requirements, gather documents, find and apply for scholarships, renew their study permit, and lots more. If you have any questions or need assistance, book an appointment with us.