Post-Graduation Work Permit in Canada: Guide for International Students

For international students, Canada is one of the most popular destinations for higher education because of its world-class universities, cultural diversity, and attractive career opportunities. One of the biggest benefits is the Post-Graduation Work Permit in Canada (PGWP), which allows students to work in Canada after completing their studies.

In this blog, we'll cover everything you need to know about the PGWP in Canada- eligibility, application process, duration, fees, and benefits.

What is a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)?

The PGWP is an open work permit issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). It allows eligible international students who graduate from a recognised Canadian Designated Learning Institution (DLI) to work for any employer in Canada without a job offer in advance.

This work permit is a direct pathway to gaining Canadian work experience, which is valuable for securing Permanent Residency (PR) later.

Why is PGWP Important?

For many international students, the period after the Post-Graduation Work Permit Canada becomes a stepping stone with multiple benefits.

• Career Growth: Gain Canadian work experience that is highly valued globally.
• PR Pathway: Canadian work experience through PGWP can boost CRS points under Express Entry.
• Financial Independence: Work full-time in Canada and earn a stable income.
• Flexibility: No restrictions on employer, job type, or location.

PGWP Eligibility Criteria

Here is the eligibility for a post-graduate work permit in Canada that you must fulfil:

Education Requirement

• Must have completed a full-time academic, vocational, or professional program at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada.
• The program must be at least 8 months long.

Institution Requirement

• The institution must be a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) that offers PGWP-eligible programs.
• Not all private colleges qualify. Students should confirm PGWP eligibility before applying to a college or university.

Study Status Requirement

• The student must have studied full-time in Canada during each academic session of the program.

Valid Study Permit Requirement

• Must have held a valid study permit at some point during the 180 days preceding the application for PGWP or have completed 900 hours of study in Quebec.
• If the study permit has expired, students may apply to have their status reinstated.

Application Timeline Requirement

• The PGWP application must be submitted within 180 days (six months) of receiving the official letter of completion from the institution and the final transcript.

Canada Post-Study Work Permit Duration

The validity period of the PGWP depends on a few factors: the length of your study program, the level of study, and your passport's expiry. Here are the key details:

PGWP Application Process

Applying for a Post-Graduation Work Permit in Canada is a straightforward process, but it requires careful attention to deadlines and documentation. Here's how you can apply:

1. Check Your Eligibility

Before applying, confirm that you:

• Completed an eligible program at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
• Studied full-time (with exceptions for your final semester).
• Apply within 180 days (6 months) of receiving your final transcript and letter of completion.

2. Gather Required Documents

Here is the post-graduate work permit Canada document checklist you need to have:

• Letter of completion – Official confirmation from your institution.
• Final transcript – Official transcript or portal copy (if accepted by IRCC).
• Valid passport – Should cover the full PGWP period; if not, permit length will be shorter.
• Proof of student status – Copy of your study permit (and extensions, if any).
• Language test results – Only if your study permit application was submitted on/after November 1, 2024, and your program/field requires meeting language benchmarks.
• Biometrics confirmation – If requested by IRCC.
• Digital photo – Passport-size, as per IRCC specifications.

Tip: Some universities automatically upload your completion documents to your student portal. Download them early for your application.

3. Apply Online

• Create or log in to your account on the IRCC portal.
• Complete the IMM 5710 application form (Application to Change Conditions, Extend my Stay or Remain in Canada as a Worker).
• Upload all the documents required for a post-graduation work permit in Canada.

4. Pay the Post-Graduate Work Permit Canada Fees:

• Work Permit Fee: CAD 155
• Open Work Permit Holder Fee: CAD 100
• Biometric: approx. CAD 85

Payment is made online through the IRCC portal.

5. Submit Application & Biometrics (if required)

• If requested, book and attend a biometrics appointment at the nearest Visa Application Centre (VAC).
• You may also be asked to provide additional documents during processing.

6. Wait for Processing

• Processing time: Usually 2–6 months, depending on application volume.
• During this period, if you applied within 180 days and your study permit was valid, you are allowed to work full-time while waiting for your PGWP decision.

7. Receive Your PGWP

• If approved, you will receive your PGWP approval letter online.
• The physical permit will be mailed to your Canadian address.
• Once received, you can start working full-time for any employer in Canada.

Quick Note: The PGWP is issued only once in a lifetime. Plan your studies strategically to maximise your work permit duration.

Work Opportunities Under PGWP

The Post-Graduation Work Permit in Canada is an open work permit, which means international graduates can work for any employer, in any location, and in most job types.

Here are the types of work you can do under PGWP:

• Full-time employment: Work in skilled jobs (NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3) to boost your chances for Permanent Residency (PR) through Express Entry or Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).
• Part-time or casual work – Many students use PGWP time to explore industries or build side income while pursuing further studies or certifications.
• Freelancing or self-employment – Since PGWP is open, you are not restricted to a single employer, allowing opportunities to work independently.

Industries with High Demand

PGWP holders often find opportunities in Canada's top-growing sectors:

• Information Technology (IT) and AI
• Healthcare and Nursing
• Engineering and Skilled Trades
• Finance and Accounting
• Business and Management
• Renewable Energy and Green Jobs

Why Work Experience Matters?

The Canada Post Graduation Work Permit's impact on career growth is significant. Canadian work experience gained after your studies not only helps you secure stable, well-paying jobs but also plays a critical role in your PR application.

• Under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), work experience from PGWP strongly increases CRS points.
• Many provinces prioritise PGWP holders through their Provincial Nominee Programs.
• Employers in Canada often prefer candidates with local work exposure, giving PGWP holders a strong edge.

Can We Extend Post-Graduate Work Permit in Canada?

The Post-Graduation Work Permit Canada extension is generally not allowed. It is usually issued only once in a lifetime and cannot be renewed or extended beyond its original duration. Once your PGWP expires, you cannot apply for another one.

When Extension Is Possible:

• Passport Expiry – If your PGWP was shortened due to your passport expiring, you can apply for the remaining time after renewing your passport.
• Special public policies – Sometimes, IRCC announces temporary PGWP extensions (like during COVID-19). These are rare and time-limited.

Options After PGWP Expires

If you wish to continue working in Canada, you may:

• Apply for a Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) if you've applied for PR.
• Get an employer-specific work permit if sponsored by a company.
• Explore Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) for work permits.

Tips to Maximise PGWP Benefits

Getting a Post-Graduation Work Permit in Canada is a big opportunity. Here's how you can make the most of it:

• Choose the right program: Enrol in a 2-year or longer program (or a Master's program of 8+ months) to qualify for a 3-year PGWP.
• Confirm PGWP eligibility before admission: Always check if your institution is a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) with PGWP-eligible programs.
• Apply on time: Submit your application within 180 days of receiving your completion letter and transcript.
• Keep your passport valid: Ensure it doesn't expire prematurely, as this may result in a shortened PGWP.
• Work in skilled jobs: Focus on NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 roles to boost PR eligibility.
• Plan for PR early: Use your PGWP years to gain Canadian work experience and improve your language scores for Express Entry or PNP.

Conclusion

The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) in Canada is more than just a work permit; it's a powerful opportunity to gain Canadian work experience, build your career, and create a clear pathway to Permanent Residency (PR). By choosing the right program, applying on time, and focusing on skilled work, international students can maximise the benefits of their PGWP years.