pgwp🇨🇦 Canada
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP): Complete Guide
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What Is a Post-Graduation Work Permit?
The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) allows international students who have completed a program at a PGWP-eligible DLI to work in Canada after graduation. The PGWP is an open work permit — meaning you can work for any employer, in any occupation, anywhere in Canada.
The PGWP is a critical stepping stone in the student-to-PR pathway.
PGWP Duration
| Program Length | PGWP Duration |
|---|---|
| Less than 8 months | Not eligible |
| 8 months to less than 2 years | Same length as study program |
| 2+ years | 3 years |
| Multiple programs | Can combine (if each is 8+ months) |
Eligibility Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| School | Must have studied at a PGWP-eligible DLI |
| Program length | Minimum 8 months |
| Study status | Full-time student throughout program |
| Completion | Received final marks or completion letter from school |
| Application timing | Must apply within 180 days of receiving final marks |
| Valid study permit | Must hold a valid study permit (or have held one) |
| Only once | You can only get one PGWP in your lifetime |
New PGWP Rules (2024-2025)
Recent changes to PGWP eligibility:
| Change | Details |
|---|---|
| Language requirement | CLB 7 for university graduates; CLB 5 for college graduates |
| Field of study | College PGWP may be limited to programs linked to occupations in shortage |
| Private colleges | Most private college graduates no longer eligible |
| Program level | Master's programs 16+ months get 3-year PGWP regardless of program length |
How to Apply
- Complete your program — receive final marks/completion letter
- Request a letter from your school — confirming eligibility
- Apply online — within 180 days of receiving final marks
- Pay the fee — $255 (open work permit fee)
- Receive your PGWP — typically processed in 1–3 months
PGWP → Permanent Residence
| Pathway | Details |
|---|---|
| CEC | 1+ year Canadian work experience → Express Entry CEC |
| FSW | Canadian education + work experience → higher CRS score |
| PNP | Provincial nomination through work experience |
| Category-based | If your occupation matches a category |
CRS Points from PGWP Work
| Canadian Experience | CRS Points (Single) |
|---|---|
| 1 year | 40 |
| 2 years | 53 |
| 3 years | 64 |
Tips
- Apply within 180 days — don't miss this deadline
- You only get ONE PGWP — plan your study program wisely
- Language test — take IELTS/CELPIP early for the new language requirement
- Work in your NOC field — relevant experience helps for CEC and PNP
- Start planning for PR during PGWP — don't wait until it expires
- 2+ year programs give 3-year PGWP — maximize your work time
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