Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Guide

What is a Post-Graduation Work Permit?

The Post-Graduation Work Permit Program (PGWP) allows international students who have graduated from a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada to obtain an open work permit. This permit enables them to gain valuable Canadian work experience, which can be crucial for those seeking permanent residency.

Why Apply for a PGWP?

Applying for a PGWP offers numerous benefits, including gaining Canadian work experience that is highly valued in the Express Entry system, providing a pathway to permanent residency through the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) under Express Entry, and allowing the flexibility to work for any employer in Canada without a job offer.

PGWP Quick Facts

The PGWP is available to graduates from DLI’s with programs lasting at least 8 months, with work permits valid for up to 3 years depending on the length of the study program, and applications must be submitted within 180 days of receiving final marks.

Eligibility Requirements for a PGWP

To be eligible for a PGWP, you must have completed a program of study at a DLI, have studied full-time in a program of at least 8 months, and apply within 180 days of receiving written confirmation that you have met the requirements for completing your academic program. Eligible levels of study include post-secondary academic, vocational, or professional training programs and secondary school programs in Quebec. Additional situations include transferring between DLIs, where the combined length of studies must be at least 8 months, and completing an accelerated program that would have been at least 8 months if completed at the normal pace.

Educational Institution Eligibility

Students should verify that their institution is a designated learning institution (DLI) approved to offer programs that qualify for the PGWP. This can be done by checking the Designated Learning Institutions list provided by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

Additional Situations

If you were transferred between DLIs, the combined length of your studies must be at least 8 months. If you completed an accelerated program, you may be eligible if the program would have been at least 8 months long if completed at the normal pace.

How to Apply for a PGWP

To apply for a PGWP from inside Canada, gather the necessary documents such as proof of graduation, a valid passport, and ensure your study permit is still valid at the time of application. If you are applying from outside of Canada, check the specific requirements for your country of residence, as they may differ. Required supporting documents include proof of graduation from a DLI, a valid passport, a letter of completion, and final transcripts.

When to Apply for a PGWP

You should obtain a letter of completion from your DLI as soon as your final marks are available, and apply within 180 days of receiving your final marks and confirmation of program completion.

How Long is a PGWP Valid For?

The length of your PGWP depends on the length of your study program, with permits valid for the same length as your program if it was 8 months to less than 2 years, and valid for 3 years if your program was 2 years or more. If your passport expires before the end of your PGWP period, your permit will be issued only until your passport expires, so you should renew your passport and apply for an extension. If you start a new program after completing your previous one, you may still be eligible for a PGWP based on the combined length of your programs.

Can I Work While Waiting for My PGWP?

You can work full-time after completing your program and while waiting for your final marks, and you can work full-time while your PGWP application is being processed if you applied before your study permit expires.

What to Do After Receiving Your PGWP

After receiving your PGWP, you should update your Social Insurance Number (SIN) with Service Canada and inform your employer of your new work permit status. Additionally, it’s important to familiarize yourself with your rights and responsibilities as a worker in Canada, such as understanding employment standards, workplace safety, and your rights regarding wages and working hours. Lastly, keep track of your work experience and any changes in your employment status, as this information will be crucial if you decide to apply for permanent residency in the future.

Can I Apply for a Work Permit After My PGWP Expires?

Generally, you cannot apply for another PGWP after it expires. Consider applying for other work permits or pathways to permanent residency before your PGWP expires.

How a PGWP Can Help You Immigrate to Canada

Using your Canadian work experience, you can qualify for the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) under Express Entry, and many provinces have streams that value Canadian work experience, which can help you gain permanent residency.

Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) is a program for individuals with skilled work experience in Canada who want to become permanent residents. Managed through the Express Entry system, it offers a straightforward path to residency for those already integrated into Canadian society. Read More

Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)

The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) allows Canadian provinces and territories to nominate individuals who wish to immigrate to Canada and settle in a specific province. Each province has its own selection criteria and streams targeting students, business people, skilled workers, and semi-skilled workers. Successful nominees can apply for permanent residency through the Express Entry system or a paper-based process, making the PNP a valuable pathway to Canadian permanent residency. Read more.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the PGWP

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

The PGWP allows international students who have graduated from a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada to work in Canada for up to three years.

Who is eligible for a PGWP?

  • Have completed a program of study at a DLI that is at least eight months long.

  • Have studied full-time.

  • Apply within 180 days of receiving confirmation that you have met the requirements for completing your program.

How long is the PGWP valid for?

  • PGWP is valid for the same length as your program.

  • Programs 2 years: PGWP is valid for 2 years.

  • Programs 3 years: PGWP is valid for 3 years.

Can I apply for a PGWP if my passport expires soon?

  • If your passport expires before the end of your PGWP period, your work permit will be issued only until your passport expiry date.

  • You should renew your passport and apply for an extension.

How many times can I apply for a PGWP?

  • You can only receive one PGWP in your lifetime.

Can I work while waiting for my PGWP?

  • Work full-time after completing your program and while waiting for your final marks.

  • Work full-time while your PGWP application is being processed if you applied before your study permit expired.

What documents do I need to apply for a PGWP?

  • Proof of graduation from a DLI.

  • Valid passport.

  • Letter of completion.

  • Final transcripts.

Check updated information at Canada.ca

Can I apply for a PGWP from outside of Canada?

Yes, you can apply for a PGWP from outside of Canada, but you should check specific requirements for your country of residence.

What should I do after receiving my PGWP?

  • Update your Social Insurance Number (SIN) with Service Canada.

  • Inform your employer of your new work permit status.

  • Familiarize yourself with your rights and responsibilities as a worker in Canada.

Can my dependents work or study in Canada if I have a PGWP?

Dependents of PGWP holders may be eligible for open work permits or study permits, allowing them to work or study in Canada.

Can I apply for permanent residency with a PGWP?

Yes, the Canadian work experience you gain with a PGWP can help you qualify for permanent residency through programs like the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) under Express Entry or various Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).

What if my study program was accelerated?

If you completed an accelerated program, you might be eligible for a PGWP if the program would have been at least 8 months long if completed at the normal pace.

Get Professional Help

Navigating the process of applying for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) can be complex, but it is a crucial step for international graduates who wish to work and live in Canada. At Up Immigration, we specialize in guiding you through each stage of the PGWP application process. Our expert team is dedicated to ensuring that your application is complete, accurate, and submitted on time, increasing your chances of success. Contact us today to get started on your journey.