School and study history
Check PGWP eligibility for the institution and program, minimum program length, full-time study requirements, and any applicable exceptions.
WORK PERMIT GUIDE
Post-Graduation Work Permit
Your studies are one chapter. Review the requirements that may connect graduation with your next work opportunity in Canada.
PLAIN-LANGUAGE OVERVIEW
Understand the starting point.
A Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is an open work permit for qualifying graduates. Eligibility depends on more than attending a Canadian school: your program, study history, timing, and applicable language or field requirements all matter. Graduation alone is not a promise of a permit.
Who this guide may suit
- Graduates reviewing whether their school and program qualify.
- Students preparing for graduation and planning document or language-test timing.
- Graduates with study gaps, transfers, or other circumstances that need closer review.
Eligibility factors to review
Immigration rules change frequently.
These are key factors, not a complete eligibility test. Check the current official instructions and your individual circumstances before applying.
Timing and status
The general application window is 180 days after confirmation of program completion. Review your study permit history and current status as part of that timeline.
Language evidence
For current applications, degree graduates and other university graduates generally need CLB/NCLC 7 in each language skill. Other college, polytechnic, or non-university graduates generally need level 5. Eligible flight-school graduates have separate rules.
Field of study and earlier permits
Bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral graduates have no field-of-study requirement. Other programs may need an eligible field depending on the study permit application date. Check the current CIP code rules. A previous PGWP generally prevents a second one.
A careful, step-by-step approach
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Review your study record
Confirm your program, enrollment history, and relevant permit and completion dates.
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Resolve eligibility questions
Check language evidence, any field-of-study requirement, and unusual study circumstances before submitting.
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Prepare the application
Collect completion records and other applicable evidence, then follow the PGWP application instructions.
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Review work permission
Check whether you may work while awaiting a decision; it is conditional, not automatic. Read the conditions of any permit issued.
Your document starting point
The exact checklist depends on your route and circumstances. This list helps prepare the discussion; it does not replace IRCC’s personalized document requirements.
- Passport and current or previous study permits.
- Official completion confirmation and academic transcript.
- Required language test results for your program category.
- Program and CIP code evidence if a field-of-study requirement applies.
- Records explaining transfers, authorized leave, or other relevant study circumstances.
- Additional documents identified in your IRCC application checklist.
Refusal risks and preparation pitfalls
Eligibility and evidence both matter. The following points deserve attention; this is not an exhaustive list or a prediction of a decision.
- Assuming any designated learning institution or program qualifies.
- Missing the application window or overlooking status requirements.
- Missing required language evidence or an applicable field-of-study requirement.
- Unexplained study interruptions or a history that does not meet the applicable study rules.
Common questions
Is every Canadian program PGWP-eligible?
No. Confirm both the institution and the program, and review your individual study history.
Do I need a language test?
The applicable requirement depends on your program and application date. Current categories generally require language evidence, with a separate exception for eligible flight-school graduates.
Can I work while the PGWP is processing?
Only if you meet the applicable conditions. Review the official after-application instructions before starting or continuing work.
Does the PGWP guarantee permanent residence?
No. A work permit and permanent residence are separate matters with different requirements.
Related guides
Go to the official source
Use the links below for current government requirements and application instructions.
Last reviewed: September 2026.
This page provides general information only and is not legal advice. It does not assess your eligibility or guarantee an outcome. A review of your full circumstances and current rules is needed before taking action.
PERSONAL GUIDANCE. PRACTICAL NEXT STEPS.
Make your work plans
with a clearer next step.
Discuss your circumstances with Balpreet Singh, RCIC #R525492.