Post Graduate Work Permit: PGWP Canada

Q: For whom is a PGWP appropriate?

A PGWP's eligibility requirements consist of: the successful completion of a full-time programme at a recognised Canadian learning institution that lasts at least eight months. graduation from a secondary or post-secondary public or private institution that abides by the same laws as public institutions, or from a private Canadian institution that has been granted provincial statutory authorization to award degrees. submitting an application for a work visa no later than 180 days after the institution sends you written proof that your studies have been completed and that you are qualified to receive a degree, diploma, or certificate (such as an official transcript or letter).

Ready to gain full-time work opportunities in Canada after graduation? Understand the Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP), eligibility requirements and the step-by-step application process.

BOOK A CONSULTATION

CHECK ELIGIBLITY

Thousands of international students study in Canada each year, and many qualify for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) after their graduation. It allows them to work for any Canadian employer. On this page, we will discuss the Canada Post-Graduate Work Permit, who is eligible for it, and how to apply.

About Post Graduate Work Permit (PGWP)

A Post Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) is a temporary work permit that allows international graduates to work in Canada.
It is issued after the individual has completed a qualifying educational program at a Canadian college or university.

The length of your PGWP depends on how long your study program was:

Less than 8 months: Not eligible.
8 months to 2 years: PGWP matches your study length (e.g., 1-year program = 1-year PGWP).
2+ years: You can get a 3-year Post-Graduation Work Permit (max).

Eligibility Requirements: PGWP Canada

Individuals can apply for a PGWP Canada if they meet the following requirements:

To qualify for a PGWP, you must meet all eligibility criteria based on:

Your study program (length, type, institution)
Your location (inside/outside Canada)
Special cases (accelerated programs, distance learning, transfers, etc.)

Basic Requirements

The Minimum Duration of your study program is at least 8 months.
You have maintained full-time student status in Canada, except for your final term or approved leaves.
You apply within 180 days of receiving written confirmation that you have completed the program.
You had a valid study permit at some point during those 180 days.

Language & Field of Study Requirements

Bachelor’s/Master’s/PhD graduates: No field restrictions. CLB 7 is required if applying after November 1, 2024.
College or diploma graduates: A CLB 5 is required if applying after November 1, 2024. Some fields may be restricted.

Who cannot apply for a PGWP?

Individuals cannot apply for a post-graduate work permit if:

It has been more than 180 calendar days since their study permit expired.
They were already issued a PGWP in the past.
Have studied French or English as a second language.
Studied in self-improvement or general interest programs
Completed their studies at a non-Canadian education institution in Canada

Post Graduate Work Permit Processing Time

Processing a PGWP can take between 80 and 180 days. If you applied before your student permit expired, you could work in Canada while you wait for your PGWP. After finishing all your study course requirements in Canada, you have 180 days to apply for your PGWP.

You can now apply for a PGWP abroad if you leave Canada after finishing your education. Applications for post-graduation work permits previously had to be made only from within Canada. Depending on the visa office processing the PGWP application, additional evidence can be needed if filed outside Canada.

Post Graduate Work Permit Checklist

You must provide the documents mentioned in this Post Graduate Work Permit Checklist to apply for the PGWP Canada:

Form IMM 5710 (Extend my stay or Remain in Canada as a Worker)
Form IMM 5476 (Use of a Representative )
Form IMM 5475 (Authority to Release Personal Information to a Designated Individual)
Photocopies of passport pages
Photocopies of Identity Document
Photocopy of current immigration document (if any)
A Final Transcript of Completed Program
A Letter from the institution and/or the formal notice of graduation
Proof of payment
The original letter provided by the institution stating that your intended employment is an essential part of your program of study (for Co-op Workers)

Post Graduate Work Permit Application Process (Step-By-Step)

The Post Graduate Work Permit Application Process is summarized below:

1. Fill out a Post-Graduate Work Permit Application

Graduates must first fill out their Post-Graduate Work Permit application online. While applying for the PGWP, minor mistakes can lead to application rejection. To avoid any issues in your process, get in touch with our expert RCICs.

2. Pay the Application Fee

While applying for PGWP online, the applicants are asked to pay a CAD 255 fee. If your study permit expires before you apply, you may have to pay CAD 350 extra to restore your status as a student.

Note: If you fail to apply for PGWP within 90 days after your study permit expires, you will have to leave Canada.

3. Gather the Required Documents

Next, graduates must gather the documents required with their application. This includes proof that they have completed their studies. This proof can be provided using one of the documents listed below:

Degree or diploma
Official letter from the educational institution
Official transcripts or copies of transcripts taken from the education institution’s website

4. Submit the Application

Graduates must then submit their applications online. Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) may ask the applicant to submit additional documents following this step.

Successful applicants inside Canada will be issued their Post-Graduate Work Permit. Successful applicants outside Canada will be issued their PGWP and a new visitor visa that allows them to enter the country.

How ELAAR can help you?

Prospective international students interested in acquiring a work permit after studying in Canada should contact us. Our exceptional team of Regulated Immigration Consultants understands the requirements and application process for PGWP visa Canada and can guide you through this process.

FAQs: Post Graduate Work Permit (PGWP Canada)

These are some frequently asked questions about the post-graduate work permit for international students.

Is it necessary to have a job offer to apply for a Post-Graduate Work Permit?

Yes. Many international students use the Post-Graduate Work Permit to gain work experience in Canada after graduating. They then use this work experience to apply for permanent residence under the Canadian Experience Class program.

Can I get a post-graduate work permit after studying in Canada for one year?

You may be eligible for a work permit after 1-year study in Canada if the program is from a designated learning institution.

For whom is a PGWP appropriate?

A PGWP’s eligibility requirements consist of:

– The successful completion of a full-time programme at a recognised Canadian learning institution that lasts at least eight months.
– Graduation from a secondary or post-secondary public or private institution that abides by the same laws as public institutions, or from a private Canadian institution that has been granted provincial statutory authorization to award degrees.
– Submitting an application for a work visa no later than 180 days after the institution sends you written proof that your studies have been completed and that you are qualified to receive a degree, diploma, or certificate (such as an official transcript or letter).