Post Graduate Work Permit (PGWP)

What is a Post Graduate Work Permit

A Post Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) is an open work permit given to international students who successfully complete a study program in Canada. This permit allows graduates to: Work for any employer Work anywhere in Canada Work full-time or part-time It helps students gain Canadian work experience, which can improve their chances of applying for permanent residence later.

PGWP Quick Facts

A PGWP can be issued for different durations depending on the length of the study program. Important points about PGWP: The permit can be valid for 8 months to 3 years The PGWP duration cannot be longer than the length of the study program Usually, the PGWP length is similar to the duration of the study program, up to a maximum of 3 years If more than 50% of the course was completed through in-person classes, the student is eligible for a PGWP If a student studied part-time or completed an accelerated program, the PGWP length will be based on the normal full-time program duration

Who is Eligible for a PGWP

To apply for a Post Graduate Work Permit, certain conditions must be met. Eligibility requirements: The applicant must be at least 18 years old The student must have studied full-time in Canada The study program must be at least 8 months long The program must be completed at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) The applicant must apply for the PGWP within 180 days after completing the study program

Applying from Canada or Outside Canada

Students can apply for a PGWP from inside Canada or from outside Canada. If applying from within Canada: The student must have valid immigration status If the study permit has expired, they may first apply for visitor status Students who apply for a PGWP before their study permit expires are allowed to start working full-time while their application is being processed.

Applying for PGWP from Outside Canada

Students who leave Canada after completing their studies can still apply for a PGWP from outside the country. However, depending on the visa office processing the application, additional documents may be requested.

Licensed Representative

Name: Sanjay Singh (CEO – RCIC)
Designation: Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC)
Regulator: College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC)

License verification is available through official CICC Public Register.

Begin with a structured eligibility review and receive clarity on your available pathways.