Canada is a top destination for international students due to its world-class education system, diverse culture, and opportunities for permanent residency. One of the most attractive benefits for international graduates is the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which allows students to stay and work in Canada after completing their studies. This open work permit provides a pathway to gaining Canadian work experience, which can later support an application for permanent residency.
This comprehensive guide will walk through eligibility criteria, application steps, required documents, validity periods, common mistakes, and pathways to permanent residency under the Canada Post-Graduation Work Permit Program (PGWPP).
What Is the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)?
The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is an open work permit issued to international graduates from eligible Canadian institutions. It allows graduates to work for any employer in Canada without restrictions on job type or location.
The PGWP is an essential stepping stone for those who want to gain Canadian work experience, as it helps meet eligibility requirements for programs like Express Entry (Canadian Experience Class) and Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).
Benefits of the PGWP
- Work for Any Employer – No restrictions on employer or location within Canada.
- Pathway to Permanent Residency – Canadian work experience helps qualify for Express Entry and PNPs.
- No Job Offer Required – Applicants do not need a job offer before applying.
- Valid for Up to 3 Years – Based on the length of the study program.
- Gain Valuable Canadian Experience – Work experience in Canada increases chances of securing permanent residency.
Who Is Eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit?
To qualify for a PGWP, international students must meet the following criteria:
1. Completed a Qualifying Study Program
- The study program must be full-time and at least 8 months long.
- It must have been completed at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
2. Studied at an Eligible Institution
- The institution must be a DLI that offers PGWP-eligible programs.
- Most public universities and colleges are eligible, but private institutions may not qualify.
3. Held a Valid Study Permit During Studies
- Applicants must have studied under a valid study permit throughout their program.
4. Applied Within 180 Days of Graduation
- Graduates must apply within 180 days of receiving their final grades or completion letter.
5. Maintained Full-Time Status
- Students must have maintained full-time enrollment in Canada (except for their final semester).
How Long Is the PGWP Valid?
The length of the PGWP depends on the duration of the completed study program:
- Programs less than 8 months → Not eligible for a PGWP.
- Programs between 8 months and 2 years → PGWP valid for the same length as the study program.
- Programs of 2 years or more → PGWP valid for up to 3 years.
If a student completed multiple eligible programs, they may qualify for a longer PGWP by combining the durations.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a PGWP
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
Before applying, ensure you have the following documents ready:
✔ Valid Passport – Ensure it is valid for at least the length of the intended PGWP.
✔ Study Permit – A copy of the valid study permit.
✔ Final Transcript – Issued by the DLI as proof of program completion.
✔ Completion Letter – A formal letter from the institution confirming graduation.
✔ Official Graduation Certificate (if applicable).
Step 2: Submit the PGWP Application
There are two ways to apply for a PGWP:
- Online Application (Recommended)
- Visit the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.
- Log into your IRCC Secure Account or create one.
- Fill out the PGWP application form and upload required documents.
- Pay the application fee.
- Paper Application (Slower Processing)
- Download and complete Form IMM 5710.
- Mail the application to the IRCC address provided on the website.
Step 3: Pay the Required Fees
The PGWP application fee is CAD $255, which includes:
- Processing Fee: CAD $155
- Open Work Permit Holder Fee: CAD $100
Step 4: Biometrics Submission (If Required)
Some applicants may need to submit biometrics (fingerprints and photos) at a Visa Application Center (VAC). The fee for biometrics is CAD $85.
Step 5: Wait for Processing
Processing Time:
- Standard PGWP processing takes 2 to 6 months.
- If applying from inside Canada, you can work while waiting for approval.
Once approved, the applicant will receive the Post-Graduation Work Permit by mail.
Can You Work While Waiting for a PGWP?
Yes. If you apply before your study permit expires, you can work full-time while waiting for the PGWP decision. This allows graduates to start earning income immediately after graduation.
Common Reasons for PGWP Refusal
- Applying After 180 Days – Applications must be submitted within 180 days of receiving final results.
- Studying at an Ineligible Institution – The program must be from a DLI that offers PGWP-eligible programs.
- Insufficient Study Duration – Programs less than 8 months do not qualify.
- Not Holding a Valid Study Permit During Studies – Applicants must have had a valid study permit throughout their studies.
Can You Extend a PGWP?
A PGWP cannot be extended, but there are other options if it expires:
✔ Apply for a Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) if applying for permanent residency.
✔ Apply for an Employer-Specific Work Permit under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP).
✔ Apply for Express Entry or Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) for PR eligibility.
Pathways to Permanent Residency After PGWP
The PGWP is a direct pathway to permanent residency. The most common immigration programs for PGWP holders include:
1. Express Entry (Canadian Experience Class – CEC)
- Requires one year of skilled Canadian work experience.
- Uses a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) to select candidates.
2. Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
- Some PNPs allow PGWP holders to apply without needing a job offer.
- Faster processing times in certain provinces.
3. Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
- For graduates studying in Atlantic provinces (Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, PEI, Newfoundland & Labrador).
Tips for a Successful PGWP Application
✔ Apply Immediately – Do not wait until the 180-day deadline approaches.
✔ Check Institution Eligibility – Only apply if your institution is a DLI with PGWP eligibility.
✔ Keep Study Permit Valid – Ensure your study permit does not expire before applying.
✔ Ensure Passport Validity – If your passport expires soon, renew it before applying.
Conclusion
Canada’s Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) provides international graduates with valuable work experience and a pathway to permanent residency. By ensuring eligibility, preparing strong application documents, and following the correct steps, international students can take full advantage of this open work permit and secure a future in Canada.
For those planning to transition to PR, the PGWP is a critical step, allowing graduates to gain skilled Canadian work experience, increasing their chances of qualifying for Express Entry, PNPs, or other immigration programs.