Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is a highly sought-after program in Canada that allows international students who have graduated from designated learning institutions (DLIs) to work in Canada for a specific period. This program is part of Canada’s broader strategy to attract skilled workers and provide international graduates with a pathway to gain Canadian work experience, which can later support permanent residency applications. 

Here is a detailed overview of the PGWP, including eligibility criteria, the application process, duration, benefits, and its role in Canada’s immigration pathways.

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

The Post-Graduation Work Permit is an open work permit issued by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) that allows international students who have graduated from eligible Canadian DLIs to stay and work in Canada. Unlike most work permits in Canada, the PGWP does not require a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) Unlike most work permits in Canada, the PGWP does not require Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), giving it added flexibility and convenience for international graduates.

The PGWP is “open” in the sense that it does not tie the holder to a specific employer or job, allowing graduates to work for any employer, in any location across Canada, and in any occupation. This flexibility provides a valuable opportunity for international graduates to acquire Canadian work experience, which can significantly contribute to their future immigration applications, particularly through the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) under Express Entry.

Key Features:

1. Open Work Permit: Unlike employer-specific work permits, a PGWP allows the holder to work for any employer in Canada without a pre-arranged job offer.
2. No Restrictions on Occupation: Graduates can work in any field, even outside their field of study, making the PGWP highly flexible.
3. Pathway to Permanent Residence (PR): Canadian work experience gained under the PGWP can increase a graduate’s eligibility for permanent residency through programs like the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) under the Express Entry system.

Who is Eligible for the PGWP?

To qualify for the PGWP, several criteria must be met, ensuring that only students with legitimate educational backgrounds in Canada can access the program.

1. Completion of a Program at a DLI

To qualify for the PGWP, you must have completed a study program at an eligible Canadian DLI. Key points include:

• The program must be at least eight months long, leading to a degree, diploma, or certificate.
• Recognized qualifications include:
  • Diploma of Vocational Studies (DVS)
  • Attestation of Vocational Specialization (AVS)
  • Diploma of College Studies (DCS)
  • Attestation of Collegial Studies (ACS)

2. Full-Time Student Status

You must have maintained full-time student status in Canada throughout the duration of your program, with the exception of specific situations, such as an authorized leave of absence or part-time studies in your final semester.

3. Graduation from a Qualified Institution

Only graduates from institutions that are listed on the Canadian government’s approved DLI list are eligible for the PGWP. It is crucial to confirm that your institution qualifies to ensure your PGWP eligibility.

4. Valid Study Permit

At the time of applying for the PGWP, you must either have a valid study permit or have been authorized to study in Canada without a permit.

Check historical study permit processing time trends.

5. Programs Not Eligible for PGWP

Several types of programs do not qualify for PGWP:

6. Eligibility for Aviation Students

Aviation students have additional eligibility criteria:

• Completion of a flight training course at a DLI training centre and possession of a Canadian commercial pilot’s license.
• Working towards or having an instructor’s rating, along with a job offer as a flight instructor from a DLI flight training centre.

7. Application Timing

• The application for a PGWP must be submitted within 180 days of receiving written confirmation (such as transcripts or an official letter) from the DLI that the study program has been completed.

Programs and Institutions that Qualify for PGWP

While the PGWP is widely accessible, not all educational programs or institutions qualify for it. To be eligible for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) in Canada, international students must meet specific criteria regarding the educational programs they have completed and the institutions they attended.

1. Programs That Qualify for PGWP

To qualify for the PGWP, your study program must meet the following requirements:

• Program Length: The program must be at least 8 months long. Programs shorter than 8 months do not qualify for the PGWP.
• Type of Credential: The program must lead to one of the following qualifications:
  • Degree (Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctorate)
  • Diploma (Vocational or College Studies)
  • Certificate (including postgraduate certificates)
  • Attestation (Attestation of Vocational Specialization or Collegial Studies)

2. Eligible Institutions (DLI)

Not all educational institutions in Canada are eligible for the PGWP. To qualify, you must have studied at a DLI that offers programs recognized for PGWP eligibility.

• What is a DLI? A DLI is an educational institution approved by the Canadian government to host international students. However, not every program offered by a DLI is eligible for the PGWP. You must verify that your specific program is recognized for PGWP eligibility.
• How to Check if an Institution Qualifies: The Canadian government maintains a DLI list that outlines which schools and programs are eligible for the PGWP. Make sure to consult this list before enrolling to ensure your program qualifies.

3. Specific Program Exclusions

Some programs and institutions do not qualify for the PGWP. These include:

• Programs less than 8 months long: These are too short to qualify for the PGWP.
• Language Programs: English as a Second Language (ESL) or French as a Second Language (FSL) programs are not eligible.
• Distance Learning Programs: If more than 50% of your program was completed online, you may not qualify for the PGWP. However, some online courses taken during the pandemic are given exceptions.

4. Special Considerations for Aviation Programs

Aviation students have specific eligibility criteria for the PGWP:

• Flight Training Programs: You must complete a flight training program at a DLI and have a valid Canadian commercial pilot license.
• Instructor Rating: If you are working towards or have obtained an instructor rating, you must also have a job offer as a flight instructor from a DLI flight training centre to qualify.

Work Duration and PGWP Validity

The length of your PGWP will depend on the length of the program of study completed:

• Study program less than 8 months: Not eligible for a PGWP.
  
• Programs of Less Than 2 Years: If the study program is less than two years but at least eight months long, the PGWP is generally issued for a period equal to the length of the program. For example, if a student completes a one-year program, they may receive a one-year PGWP.
  
• Programs of 2 Years or More: For programs lasting two years or more, graduates may be eligible for a PGWP valid for up to three years. This allows international students ample time to accumulate work experience.
  
• Multiple Programs: If a student completes multiple eligible study programs at DLIs, they may combine the length of those programs to receive a longer PGWP, provided each program meets the minimum duration of eight months.

Important: Each graduate is eligible for only one work permit, with no extensions.

Applying for a PGWP

The PGWP application process is straightforward, but it requires careful attention to detail to ensure your application is successful.

Gather Required Documents: Applicants must have:

• Proof of graduation: This can include a letter from your educational institution confirming you have completed your program of study or your official transcripts.
• Valid passport: Your passport must be valid for the entire length of the work permit you are applying for. If your passport expires sooner, your PGWP will only be issued until the passport’s expiry date.
• Study permit: Ensure you have a valid study permit or that your study permit was valid within the last 180 days.

Submit the Application: The application can be submitted online or by paper, though online submission is the recommended method. It must be submitted within 180 days of receiving confirmation that you have completed your studies. 

Applicants must submit:

• The completed application form (IMM 5710).
• Required supporting documents.
• Payment for the application fee (CAD $255 as of 2024).

Processing Time: Processing times for PGWP applications can vary. On average, it takes between 80 to 180 days for applications to be processed. However, the processing time can vary based on factors such as the volume of applications and the applicant’s country of origin.

Implied Status: If your study permit expires after you have applied for a PGWP but before a decision has been made, you may continue to stay in Canada and work under implied status until a decision on your application is rendered.

What to Do If Your PGWP Application Is Refused

If your PGWP application is refused, there are several steps you can take to understand the reason for the refusal and determine how to proceed.

1. Understand the Reason for the Refusal

The first step after receiving a refusal is to carefully read the refusal letter provided by IRCC. The letter will outline the specific reasons for the denial of your application. Common reasons for refusal include:

• Ineligible institution or program: Your program or institution might not have qualified for the PGWP, or you may have mistakenly applied from a non-DLI.
• Incorrect or incomplete application: Missing or incorrect documents, such as proof of graduation, a valid passport, or incomplete application forms, can lead to a refusal.
• Failure to maintain full-time student status: If you were not enrolled as a full-time student during your study program (except for the final academic term), your application might be rejected.
• Expired study permit: Applying after your study permit has expired or not meeting the 180-day application window can result in a refusal.

Once you identify the reason, you can decide how to address the issue.

2. Correct the Issue and Reapply

If the refusal was due to an error or omission in your application, you may have the option to correct the issue and submit a new application. For example, if you forgot to submit an important document like your final transcript or proof of graduation, you can gather the missing documents and reapply. Ensure that you:

• Submit a complete and accurate application with all required documents.
• Check your eligibility carefully, including the eligibility of your institution and program, before reapplying.
• If you missed the deadline, make sure you apply within the correct 180-day timeframe after receiving your final marks or letter of completion.

3. Restore Your Status (if applicable)

If your study permit has expired and your PGWP application was refused, you may still have the option to restore your temporary resident status in Canada. You must apply for status restoration within 90 days of your study permit’s expiration.

If your study permit has expired and your PGWP result is pending or in progress, you can remain in Canada under “implied status” or “maintained status.” This allows you to stay in the country legally until a decision is made on your PGWP application.

However, if your PGWP is still pending, and your study permit has expired, you cannot work until the PGWP is approved. You must wait for the final decision before resuming or starting employment unless you have maintained full-time status as a student and applied for the PGWP before your study permit expires.

If your PGWP application is eventually refused, you will need to restore your temporary resident status within 90 days of your study permit’s expiration:

• How to restore your status:
  • Apply to restore your status as a student and submit a new PGWP application simultaneously.
  • Pay the fees for status restoration ($379) and the PGWP application ($255).
  • Submit a complete application, including all required documents.

It’s important to note that restoring your status does not guarantee PGWP approval but allows you to remain in Canada legally while waiting for further decisions​

4. Request Reconsideration

In some cases, if you believe the refusal was due to an administrative error or a misunderstanding, you may request IRCC to reconsider the decision. This process is informal and should only be attempted if you are certain that the application was wrongly refused based on facts you had already submitted.

Steps to request reconsideration:

• Write a polite and concise letter explaining why you believe the refusal was made in error.
• Provide supporting evidence or clarification that addresses the reasons for the refusal.
• Send the request to the visa office or IRCC where you submitted your original application.

Note that reconsideration requests are not always successful, and there is no formal process to appeal a PGWP refusal directly.

5. Seek Legal or Professional Advice

If you are unsure why your application was refused or if you believe your case is complex, you may want to seek legal advice or consult with an immigration consultant or lawyer. They can:

• Help you understand the reasons for refusal.
• Guide you through the process of submitting a new application or filing a restoration request.
• Advise you on other possible immigration options if your PGWP application is ultimately unsuccessful.

It’s important to choose a licensed immigration consultant or lawyer to ensure you receive accurate and reliable advice.

6. Explore Alternative Work Permit Options

If you are unable to obtain a PGWP, there may still be other work permit options available to you, depending on your situation. Some alternatives include:

• Employer-Specific Work Permits: If you have a valid job offer from a Canadian employer willing to go through the LMIA process, you could apply for an employer-specific work permit. Find employers offering LMIA jobs.
• Provincial Nominee Program (PNP): Some provinces offer specific immigration programs for graduates and skilled workers. If you meet the criteria, you may qualify for a PNP nomination, which could allow you to stay in Canada.
• Spousal Open Work Permit: If you are in a common-law relationship or married to a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, you may be eligible for a spousal open work permit.

7. Consider Reapplying for a Study Permit

If you are not eligible for any other work permit options or if the refusal was due to ineligibility, you might consider returning to school. You can reapply for a study permit to complete another program at an eligible DLI, which could help you qualify for a PGWP upon graduation.

Benefits of the PGWP

1. Gain Valuable Canadian Work Experience: The PGWP is an excellent opportunity to gain relevant work experience that can enhance a graduate’s professional profile and boost their chances of obtaining permanent residency.
   
2. Flexibility: The PGWP allows graduates to switch jobs, work in various sectors, and even start their businesses during the permit’s validity.
   
3. No Job Offer Needed: Unlike other work permits, a PGWP does not require an existing job offer. Graduates have the flexibility to search for jobs that align with their skills and career goals.
   
4. PR Pathways: Work experience gained under a PGWP can contribute to the eligibility for permanent residency through the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), one of the immigration streams under Express Entry. It can also support other PR pathways such as the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).
   
5. No LMIA Requirement: An LMIA is a document that an employer must usually obtain to prove that hiring a foreign worker will not negatively impact the Canadian labor market. However, for PGWP holders, no LMIA is required, which makes it easier for you to find employment.
   
6. Eligible for Healthcare Benefits: In many provinces, once you start working full-time on a PGWP, you become eligible for provincial healthcare coverage. For instance, in Ontario, once you’ve worked full-time for at least six months, you may be eligible for OHIP (Ontario Health Insurance Plan).
   
7. Spousal and Family Benefits: In many cases, the spouse or common-law partner of a PGWP holder can apply for an open work permit and work in Canada during the same period.
   
8. Freedom to Work Anywhere: A PGWP is an open work permit, meaning you’re not tied to a specific employer or job. This flexibility allows graduates to explore different roles, industries, and cities across Canada.
   
9. Bridge to Other Immigration Programs: For those who might not qualify for PR through the CEC or PNP immediately, the PGWP allows time to improve your qualifications (e.g., gain additional work experience or improve your language skills) to apply for these programs later.

Limitations of the PGWP

While the PGWP offers several advantages, it also has some limitations that international students should be aware of:

1. One-Time Opportunity: The PGWP is only issued once per person. This means that if you complete multiple study programs in Canada and receive a PGWP for your first program, you won’t be able to apply for another PGWP after completing a subsequent program. As a result, it’s crucial to time your PGWP application strategically, especially if you plan to pursue further studies in Canada.
2. Limited Duration: The length of your PGWP depends on the length of your study program. For example, if you completed a one-year program, you will only receive a one-year PGWP, which might not provide enough time to gain the necessary work experience for PR. For students in shorter programs, it can be challenging to transition to permanent residency before the work permit expires.
3. Study Program Ineligibility: Not all study programs or institutions are eligible for the PGWP. For example, graduates of programs such as English or French as a Second Language courses, general interest or self-improvement courses, or programs taken at non-eligible DLIs are not eligible for the PGWP.
4. Processing Delays: While IRCC has made efforts to reduce processing times, delays can still occur, particularly during peak application periods. This could impact your ability to start working promptly after graduation if you’re waiting for the work permit to be approved.

How PGWP Fits into Canada’s Immigration Pathways

The work experience you gain while holding a PGWP is essential in your pathway to permanent residency. Canada’s immigration system is designed to prioritize candidates with Canadian work experience, which aligns with the country’s economic needs. Here’s how the PGWP plays into some of the key immigration programs:

1. Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

The CEC is one of the three programs managed under Express Entry. It is specifically designed for candidates who have gained skilled work experience in Canada. To be eligible, you must have at least 12 months of full-time (or equivalent part-time) skilled work experience in Canada within the last three years.

Many PGWP holders use this route to apply for PR, as it provides a clear and structured pathway. Additionally, the work experience gained under the PGWP can help applicants score highly in the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) that is used to rank Express Entry candidates.

2. Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)

Each province in Canada has its own PNP, which allows provinces to nominate individuals for permanent residency based on local labour market needs. Many provinces have specific streams under their PNPs for international graduates. For example:

• Ontario’s PNP: The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) offers a stream called the “International Student Stream,” which targets PGWP holders who have a job offer in Ontario.
• British Columbia’s PNP: The British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) has an “International Graduate” stream that provides a pathway to PR for recent graduates who have completed a degree, diploma, or certificate in Canada and have a valid job offer in the province.
• Alberta’s PNP: The Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP) has a category called the “Alberta Opportunity Stream” that international graduates with PGWPs can apply for.

3. Quebec Experience Program (PEQ):

If you graduated from an institution in Quebec and have gained work experience in the province, the Quebec Experience Program (PEQ) offers a fast track to permanent residency for skilled workers, including those with Canadian educational credentials.

4. Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP)

For those who are willing to work and settle in smaller communities, the RNIP offers a pathway to PR. This pilot program is community-driven, meaning communities in participating regions can recommend candidates for permanent residency. PGWP holders who gain work experience in one of the participating rural areas may find this program an attractive option for settling in Canada.

5. Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)

International graduates from Atlantic Canada (Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and New Brunswick) may be eligible for the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP), which offers a fast-tracked pathway to permanent residency for those who have studied and worked in the Atlantic region.

Applying for Permanent Residency: Tips for PGWP Holders

If you’re using your PGWP to gain work experience with the intention of applying for PR, here are some tips to maximize your chances of success:

• Keep Track of Your NOC Code: Skilled work experience must fall under specific National Occupational Classification (NOC) codes to be eligible for immigration programs like the CEC. Make sure your job falls under one of the eligible NOC categories (typically NOC 0, A, or B).
  
• Maximize Your CRS Score: The Express Entry system uses the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) to rank candidates for PR. You can improve your CRS score by gaining Canadian work experience, improving your language proficiency (in English or French), or obtaining additional education or job offers in Canada.
  
• Apply Early: The process of applying for PR can take time. Don’t wait until the end of your PGWP validity to start the application process. Start gathering the necessary documentation, take your language tests, and ensure you are meeting the work experience requirements for your chosen immigration pathway.
  
• Seek Provincial Opportunities: Keep an eye on the PNPs in the province you’re working in. Provinces frequently update their immigration streams and may offer specific draws targeting international graduates or skilled workers in particular sectors.
  
• Consider an Employer-Specific Work Permit: If your PGWP is nearing expiration and you’re working for an employer who is willing to sponsor you, you may be able to transition to an employer-specific work permit, which can buy you additional time to qualify for PR.

Latest Changes to the PGWP Program (As of 1st November)

As of November 1, 2024, significant changes have been introduced to Canada’s PGWP program, impacting international students seeking to work in the country after completing their studies. The updates focus on eligibility requirements, particularly in terms of language proficiency and fields of study.

Key changes include:

1. Language Proficiency: Applicants must now meet stricter language requirements. Graduates with a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree from a Canadian university must achieve at least CLB 7 (Canadian Language Benchmark) in English or NCLC 7 in French. College graduates face slightly lower requirements, needing a CLB 5 in English or NCLC 5 in French.
2. Field of Study: While university graduates from any field remain eligible for the PGWP, those from non-university programs, such as colleges or vocational training, must graduate from fields aligned with specific labour market needs. The fields of study are divided into 5 broad categories:

• agriculture and agri-food
• healthcare
• science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM)
• trade
• transportation

3. Program-Specific Requirements: Master’s program graduates, previously eligible for shorter work permits, will now be able to apply for a three-year PGWP, providing more time to gain work experience that can help transition to permanent residency.

These changes are part of Canada’s strategy to better align the PGWP with its labour market needs and ensure that international students contribute effectively to the economy. For students planning to apply, it’s essential to meet both the new language and academic criteria

Conclusion

The Post-Graduation Work Permit is a pivotal program that offers international students in Canada the chance to gain work experience, support themselves financially, and potentially transition to permanent residency. With its flexibility, straightforward application process, and role in various immigration pathways, the PGWP continues to be a key feature of Canada’s strategy to retain international talent and address its labour market needs.

Canada remains one of the most attractive destinations for international students seeking not just a world-class education but also a clear path toward long-term immigration and career success. Whether you are considering studying in Canada or have recently graduated, understanding the PGWP is essential to unlocking opportunities that can shape your future in this dynamic and welcoming country.

FAQ

1. Who is eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)?
   International students who have completed a study program from a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada that is at least eight months long and leads to a degree, diploma, or certificate are eligible for the PGWP. Additionally, students must have maintained full-time status during their studies, except in specific cases such as authorized leave or part-time studies in their final semester.
2. How long can I work on a PGWP?
   The length of your PGWP depends on the length of your study program. If your program is less than two years but at least eight months long, the work permit will be issued for the same duration as your program. For programs two years or longer, you may receive a PGWP for up to three years.
3. Can I apply for a PGWP more than once?
   No, you can only receive a PGWP once. If you apply and receive a PGWP after completing your first program in Canada, you will not be eligible for another PGWP if you pursue further studies later.
4. Can I work while waiting for my PGWP to be processed?
   Yes, if you apply for your PGWP before your study permit expires, you are allowed to work full-time while waiting for your PGWP to be processed. This is known as “implied status.”
5. Are there any restrictions on the type of job I can take with a PGWP?
   No, the PGWP is an open work permit, meaning you can work for any employer, in any location, and any field. You are not restricted to a specific job or industry.
6. Can I apply for permanent residency (PR) after working on a PGWP?
   Yes, work experience gained under a PGWP can help you qualify for permanent residency through programs like the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) under Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP), and other immigration pathways.
7. What happens if my passport expires before my PGWP does?
   If your passport expires before the full duration of your PGWP, your work permit will be issued only until your passport’s expiry date. Once you renew your passport, you can apply to extend your PGWP to the full duration you are eligible for.
8. What happens if my study permit expires before I apply for the PGWP?
   You have 180 days from the time you receive your official transcript or graduation letter to apply for the PGWP. If your study permit expires before you apply, you may need to restore your status as a student before applying for the work permit.
9. Are there any recent changes to the PGWP program that I should be aware of?
   Yes, as of November 1, 2024, new changes have been introduced, including stricter language proficiency requirements and specific field-of-study criteria for college and vocational graduates. Additionally, master’s degree graduates are now eligible for a three-year PGWP.
10. Can I study while holding a PGWP?
    Yes, but the PGWP is designed primarily for work. If you wish to study full-time in a new program, you may need to apply for a new study permit.
11. What should I do if my PGWP is about to expire and I haven’t obtained enough work experience for PR?
    If your PGWP is about to expire, you may explore other options such as transitioning to an employer-specific work permit, applying for a bridging open work permit (if eligible) or checking if any provincial programs provide extensions or pathways for a further stay.
12. Can my spouse or common-law partner work in Canada while I am on a PGWP?
    Yes, your spouse or common-law partner may be eligible for an open work permit if you are working in a skilled occupation (NOC 0, A, or B) while holding your PGWP.
13. What is the fee to apply for the PGWP?
    Yes, the fee for a PGWP is CAD $255 as of 2024, which includes a CAD $155 work permit fee and a CAD $100 open work permit holder fee.
14. What happens if I complete my program through distance learning?
    If more than 50% of your program was completed through distance learning, you may not be eligible for a PGWP. However, exceptions were made for students affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, allowing them to complete their program online and still qualify.
15. Can I apply for the PGWP if I study part-time?
    You must have been a full-time student during your study program to qualify for the PGWP, except for your final academic session, where part-time studies are permitted. You may also be eligible if you were on an authorized leave of absence.
16. How do I check if my school and program qualify for the PGWP?
    To be eligible for a PGWP, you must graduate from a designated learning institution (DLI) that is approved by the Canadian government. You can check the list of DLIs and whether your program is eligible for the PGWP on the official IRCC website.
17. What should I do if I get refused for a PGWP?
    If your PGWP application is refused, you can review the refusal letter to understand the reasons for the denial. You may be able to appeal the decision, reapply with the necessary corrections, or seek legal advice if you believe the refusal was incorrect.