Important 2026 Updates

New PGWP rules have been implemented. Public-private partnership college graduates are no longer eligible. Field of study restrictions now apply for programs starting November 1, 2024 onwards.

What is PGWP?

The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) allows international students who have graduated from eligible Canadian designated learning institutions (DLIs) to work in Canada after completing their studies.

A PGWP is an open work permit, meaning you can work for any employer in Canada in any occupation. This Canadian work experience can help you qualify for permanent residence through programs like Express Entry (Canadian Experience Class) or Provincial Nominee Programs.

PGWP Duration

The length of your PGWP depends on the length of your study program:

Program Length	PGWP Duration
Less than 8 months	Not Eligible
8 months to less than 2 years	Same as program length
2 years or more	3 years
Master's degree (any length)	3 years
Doctoral degree	3 years

Eligibility Requirements

Valid Study Permit: You must have had a valid study permit within the last 180 days.
Eligible DLI: You must have graduated from an eligible designated learning institution (public college, university, or eligible private institution).
Program Length: Your program must have been at least 8 months in duration.
Full-time Studies: You must have been a full-time student in Canada during each semester of your program.
Completion Letter: You need a letter or official document from your school confirming you completed your program.
Apply within 180 days: You must apply within 180 days of receiving written confirmation of completing your program.

Current PGWP Rules (Updated November 2024)

Field of Study Requirement: For programs starting November 1, 2024, PGWP eligibility depends on your field of study. Programs must be in eligible fields linked to occupations with labour shortages.
Language Requirements: University graduates need CLB 7, college graduates need CLB 5 to be eligible for PGWP.
Public-Private Partnerships: Graduates of curriculum licensing arrangement programs at private colleges are no longer eligible for PGWP.
Master's Programs: Master's degree graduates are eligible for a 3-year PGWP regardless of program length.
Spousal Work Permits: Only spouses of students in master's, doctoral, or professional degree programs can get open work permits.

Eligible Fields of Study (2026)

For college/non-degree programs starting Nov 1, 2024+, PGWP is only available for these fields:

Agriculture & Agri-food: Farming, food processing, agricultural sciences
Healthcare: Nursing, medical laboratory, pharmacy technician, dental hygiene
STEM: Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics
Trade: Construction, mechanics, electrical, plumbing
Transport: Aviation, logistics, supply chain

Note: University degree programs are exempt from field of study restrictions.

How to Apply

Step 1: Get your completion letter and final transcript from your school.
Step 2: Create or log into your IRCC online account.
Step 3: Complete the PGWP application form (IMM 5710).
Step 4: Upload required documents (passport, completion letter, transcripts, photos).
Step 5: Pay the application fee ($255 CAD) and biometrics fee ($85 CAD) if applicable.
Step 6: Submit your application and wait for processing (typically 80-180 days).

PGWP to Permanent Residence

Your PGWP work experience is highly valuable for Canadian immigration:

Canadian Experience Class (CEC): 1 year of skilled work experience in Canada qualifies you for Express Entry CEC stream.
Provincial Nominee Programs: Many PNPs have streams specifically for workers with Canadian experience.
CRS Points: Canadian work experience adds significant points to your Comprehensive Ranking System score.
Job Offer Bonus: A valid job offer from a Canadian employer adds 50-200 CRS points.

Common Questions

PGWP Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to the most common questions about this visa category.

What is the Post-Graduation Work Permit?

PGWP allows international graduates from Canadian Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) to work in Canada after completing their studies, gaining valuable Canadian work experience.

How long is PGWP valid for?

PGWP validity equals your program length: less than 8 months = no PGWP, 8 months to 2 years = same as program length, 2+ years = 3 years.

What programs qualify for PGWP?

Programs must be at least 8 months long at a DLI. Includes college diplomas, bachelor's, master's, and PhDs. Some restrictions apply for language programs.

When should I apply for PGWP?

Apply within 180 days of receiving written confirmation of completing your program. You must have valid study permit status when applying.

Can I work while my PGWP application is processing?

Yes, if you had a valid study permit that allowed work, you can continue working full-time while your PGWP application is being processed.

Can I change employers on PGWP?

Yes, PGWP is an open work permit. You can work for any employer, in any occupation, anywhere in Canada without restrictions.

Does PGWP lead to permanent residence?

PGWP provides work experience that qualifies you for Canadian Experience Class (CEC) under Express Entry. One year of skilled work makes you CEC-eligible.

Can my spouse work while I'm on PGWP?

If you're working in a skilled occupation (NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3), your spouse may be eligible for an open work permit.

What if my PGWP expires before I get PR?

You may be eligible for a Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) if you have a submitted Express Entry application or provincial nomination.

Can I study on PGWP?

Yes, PGWP holders can study without restrictions. Many pursue additional certifications or courses while working.

Post-Graduation Work Permit