Your Guide to Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

Gain valuable Canadian work experience for 8 months to 3 years. 

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What’s the Post Graduation Work Permit?

How to apply for a PGWP?

Who is eligible for a PGWP?

 

What is the Post Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)?

The Post Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is a Canadian immigration program designed to provide international students who have completed a program of study at a designated Canadian learning institution with an opportunity to work in Canada. This valuable work experience can help you transition from academic life to a rewarding career in your field of study and significantly increase your chances of obtaining permanent residency.

To note: Post-graduation work permits are only issued once. If you’ve previously received one, you won’t be able to apply for another. Additionally, students on scholarships that require them to return to their home country are not eligible for this type of permit.

How to apply for a Post Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)?

To be eligible for a PGWP, you will need to have: 

  • Completed a qualifying academic program: This includes programs of at least eight months in length at a designated learning institution (DLI).
  • Study permit: You must have had a valid study permit during your studies.
  • Timeframe: You must apply within 180 days of the date your study permit expires or within 180 days of the date your letter of completion is issued (whichever comes first).

 

Steps

  1. Gather Required Documents:

    • Study permit: A copy of your current study permit.
    • Letter of completion: A document issued by your DLI confirming that you completed the program. 
    • Passport: A copy of your passport.
    • Proof of funds: You may need to prove that you have sufficient funds to support yourself in Canada.
    • Medical exam: Depending on your circumstances, you may need to undergo a medical examination.
       

  2. Create an IRCC Account:

  3. Start the Application:

    • Log in to your IRCC account and select the “Apply to come to Canada” option.
    • Choose “Study permit” and then “Post-graduation work permit.”
    • Follow the online application process, providing all the necessary information and uploading the required documents.   
       

  4. Pay Fees:

    • Pay the application fee and the open work permit holder fee.
       
  5. Hire an Immigration Consultant. Consider hiring a consultant to review your documentation and ensure it meets all the requirements for your PGWP application.
     

  6. Submit Application:

    • Review your application carefully before submitting it.

What are the eligibility criteria for applying for a Post Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)?

To be eligible for the Post Graduation Work Permit, you must meet certain criteria. It’s essential to familiarize yourself with these requirements to ensure a smooth application process:

  • Designated Learning Institution (DLI). You must have completed a program of study at a designated learning institution in Canada. Make sure your institution is recognized by the Canadian government.
  • Program Duration. The duration of your program of study must be at least eight months long to qualify for the PGWP. In cases of multiple programs, they must be within the same institution.
  • Program Completion. You should have completed and received a degree, diploma, or certificate from your program of study. Keep your official transcripts and graduation documentation ready.
  • Study Permit Validity. You must have had a valid study permit during your entire program of study.
  • Application Timing. You should apply for the PGWP within 180 days (approximately 6 months) of receiving written confirmation of program completion, such as a transcript or an official letter from your institution.
  • Work Experience While Studying. Any work experience you gained during your program, such as co-op or internship terms, does not count toward the PGWP’s work experience requirement.
  • Unique Application Rule. Applicants can receive only 1 post-graduation work permit in their lifetime. To obtain a post-graduation work permit, the applicant must currently hold valid temporary status or have left Canada.
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How long will my post-graduation work permit be valid for?

Programs less than eight months

You aren't eligible for a PGWP.

Between 8 months and 2 years

Your post-graduation work permit (PGWP) will be valid for the same duration as your study program.

2 years or more

You may be eligible for a 3-year PGWP.

8 months or more in a master's degree program

Starting February 15, 2024, students with master's degrees in programs ranging from 8 months to 2 years may qualify for a 3-year post-graduation work permit.

Can a PGWP be converted to open work permit?

If you are looking to extend your stay in Canada beyond the duration of your PGWP, you may be eligible to apply for a different type of work permit, such as a work permit based on a job offer or a provincial nominee program.

If you qualify, you can apply for either a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) or an LMIA-exempt work permit. However, given your Canadian work experience, it might be beneficial to explore permanent residency options.

If you have Canadian work experience, you can consider these immigration programs:

Need help navigating work permit requirements?

Segue Immigration offers comprehensive support to international students in Canada.

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