A Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) allows recent graduates from Canadian learning institutions the ability to remain and work in the country after they receive their qualification. You must submit your application within 180 days of graduating.
Who can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit?
While the specific requirements and restrictions for a Post-Graduation Work Permit can be quite complex, broadly speaking you will typically be eligible to apply if you have recently completed a qualification in a registered Canadian educational establishment such as a vocational college or university.
Applicants must typically ensure that they meet the following minimum eligibility criteria:
- you must have graduated within the last 180 days
- you must have held a valid study permit at some point in the last 180 days
- you must have completed a study program at a recognised ‘Designated Learning Institution’ (DLI)
- your study program must meet certain minimum length requirements and result in you being awarded a vocational or academic certificate, diploma or degree
- you were a full-time student throughout your study program, unless:
- you took approved leave at some point during your studies
- you studied part-time in your final semester
- your studies were interrupted due to the Covid-19 pandemic
Not all graduates from Canadian institutions will be eligible to apply for the Post-Graduation Work Permit program. For example, you will not be granted a PGWP if:
- your study permit expired more than 180 days ago
- you have been granted a Post-Gradution Work Permit previously
- you studied French or English as a second language
- most of your studies were distance learning
- your educational institution is not recognised as a DLI
There may be additional requirements depending on your specific qualification, situation or study record. If you are uncertain of your eligibility for a PGWP, please contact us to discuss your specific circumstances and we will be happy to provide personalised advice for your unique situation.
What does a Post-Graduation Work Permit offer?
Applicants for a Post-Graduation Work Permit are permitted to work full-time while their application is being processed, providing that they have completed their studies and were eligible to work off-campus without a work permit while their studies were ongoing.
PGWP holders are typically permitted to work for any employer in any location in Canada, though sometimes conditions can be applied restricting working in certain fields (for example, in healthcare if a medical exam has not been taken/passed). If granted, a PGWP will typically be granted for as long as the applicant’s studies were, up to a maximum of three years.
Spouses and common-law partners of PGWP holders may eligible to apply for an open work permit.
How do I apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit?
Applicants for a PGWP must ensure that they provide evidence that they have completed their studies, usually in the form of their degree/diploma or an official letter or transcript from their educational institution.
Applications can be submitted on paper or online, and from inside or outside Canada. The typical fee to apply is CAD $255. Processing times can vary significantly, though most applications usually receive a decision within six months.
Kunal Thakur
Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant R#519955
Kunal Thakur is a passionate Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) with close to two decades of immigration experience, during which he has successfully guided thousands of people on their immigration journey. He is quick in responding to client queries and constantly strives to give his clients the best possible advice. Kunal brings immense value to our team with his talks and discourses on immigration. When not in front of his laptop reading and analysing client cases, he enjoys spending his spare time exploring new places and trying new things. Kunal is currently based in Adelaide, Australia. You can book a time with him here.