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Work for Most Employers
A PGWP is generally an open work permit, which means it is not tied to one specific Canadian employer.
WORK
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
Eligible international graduates may be able to obtain an open work permit after completing their studies in Canada and gain valuable Canadian work experience.
Check Your PGWP EligibilityPOST-GRADUATION WORK PERMIT
Work in Canada After Graduation
The Post-Graduation Work Permit, commonly known as a PGWP, is an open work permit available to eligible graduates of certain Canadian educational programs.
A PGWP can allow graduates to work for most employers in Canada without requiring a specific job offer or Labour Market Impact Assessment.
Canadian work experience gained after graduation may also help some graduates qualify for permanent residence programs such as the Canadian Experience Class or Provincial Nominee Programs.
However, graduating from a Canadian school does not automatically make a student eligible for a PGWP. The institution, program, study history, language results and, in some cases, field of study can all affect eligibility.
OPEN WORK PERMIT
What Can You Do With a PGWP?
A PGWP provides eligible graduates with significant flexibility in the Canadian labour market.
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No Job Offer Required
You do not generally need to secure a Canadian job offer before applying for a PGWP.
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Change Employers
PGWP holders can generally change employers without applying for a new employer-specific work permit.
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Build Canadian Experience
Eligible Canadian work experience may support future applications under certain economic immigration programs.
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Work Anywhere in Canada
A PGWP is generally not restricted to one province or territory unless specific conditions appear on the permit.
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Temporary Status
A PGWP provides temporary work authorization. It does not automatically provide permanent resident status.
ELIGIBILITY
General PGWP Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet both general eligibility requirements and any additional requirements that apply to their level and field of study.
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PGWP-Eligible School and Program
You must generally complete an eligible program at a designated learning institution that offers PGWP-eligible programs.
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Minimum Program Length
Your program must generally be at least eight months in length, subject to the applicable rules for your credential and province.
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Full-Time Studies
You generally must have maintained full-time student status during each semester of your program.
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Final Semester Exception
Studying part-time during your final academic semester may be permitted if you otherwise meet the PGWP requirements.
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Complete Your Program
Your school must confirm that you have completed the requirements for your eligible program of study.
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Apply Within the Deadline
You generally have up to 180 days after receiving confirmation that you completed your program to apply for a PGWP.
SCHOOL & PROGRAM
A DLI Does Not Automatically Mean PGWP Eligibility
Canada maintains a list of Designated Learning Institutions, commonly called DLIs.
However, simply attending a DLI does not automatically make every graduate eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit.
Some institutions have only certain programs that are PGWP eligible, while other programs at the same institution may not qualify.
Students should confirm the PGWP eligibility of the specific institution, campus and program before making important study or immigration decisions.
Check the Program, Not Just the School
A school's DLI status alone is not enough. Your specific program must also meet the applicable PGWP requirements.
Review My ProgramLANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS
Language Tests Are Now Required for Most PGWP Applicants
Applicants submitting a PGWP application on or after November 1, 2024 generally need to provide approved English or French language test results.
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Bachelor's Degree
Graduates of bachelor's degree programs generally need at least CLB 7 in English or NCLC 7 in French in all four language abilities.
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Master's Degree
Master's degree graduates generally need at least CLB 7 or NCLC 7 in reading, writing, listening and speaking.
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Doctoral Degree
Doctoral degree graduates generally need at least CLB 7 or NCLC 7 in all four language abilities.
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Other University Programs
Graduates of other university programs generally need CLB 7 or NCLC 7 in all four language abilities.
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College and Polytechnic Programs
Graduates of eligible college, polytechnic and other non-university programs generally need at least CLB 5 or NCLC 5 in all four language abilities.
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Flight School Exception
Graduates of qualifying PGWP-eligible flight schools may be exempt from the language requirement.
FIELD OF STUDY
Does Your Program Need an Eligible CIP Code?
Some PGWP applicants must now graduate from an eligible field of study connected to occupations identified as important to Canada's labour market.
The requirement is based on the Classification of Instructional Programs, commonly referred to as the program's CIP code.
Whether this requirement applies depends on the type of credential and when the applicant submitted their study permit application.
Your CIP Code Can Determine Eligibility
For certain non-degree programs, choosing a program that is not in an eligible field of study can affect future PGWP eligibility.
Check My CIP CodeFIELD OF STUDY RULES
Who Must Meet the Field of Study Requirement?
The field of study requirement does not apply equally to all graduates.
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Bachelor's Degrees
Graduates with an eligible bachelor's degree do not have a PGWP field of study requirement.
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Master's Degrees
Graduates with an eligible master's degree do not have a PGWP field of study requirement.
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Doctoral Degrees
Graduates with an eligible doctoral degree do not have a PGWP field of study requirement.
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Other University Programs
Graduates from other university programs may need to complete an eligible field of study if their study permit application was submitted on or after November 1, 2024.
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College or Non-University Programs
Graduates of college, polytechnic and other non-university programs may need an eligible field of study when their study permit application was submitted on or after November 1, 2024.
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Earlier Study Permit Applications
Applicants who submitted their study permit application before November 1, 2024 generally do not need to meet the PGWP field of study requirement.
ELIGIBLE FIELDS
Current PGWP Field of Study Categories
Where the field of study requirement applies, IRCC maintains a list of eligible six-digit CIP codes within designated categories.
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Agriculture and Agri-Food
Certain agricultural, food production and related programs are included.
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Education
Certain education and teaching-related programs may qualify.
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Health Care and Social Services
Eligible health care and social service programs are included.
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STEM
Certain science, technology, engineering and mathematics programs are included.
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Trades
A range of skilled trade programs may satisfy the field of study requirement.
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Transport
Certain transportation-related programs may also be eligible.
IMPORTANT CIP INFORMATION
The Program Name Alone Is Not Enough
PGWP field of study eligibility is determined using the program's six-digit CIP code, not simply the marketing name that appears on a college or university website.
Two programs with similar names may have different CIP codes and therefore different PGWP implications.
Eligible fields of study can change over time based on federal labour-market priorities. However, IRCC has confirmed that the eligible PGWP field-of-study list is frozen for 2026, with no additions or removals during the year.
Students should still review the applicable rules based on their study permit application date, PGWP application date and exact six-digit CIP code.
Confirm Before Enrolling
If PGWP eligibility is important to your immigration plan, confirm your program's exact CIP code and eligibility before committing to the program.
Review My Study PlanPERMIT LENGTH
How Long Can a PGWP Be Valid?
PGWP validity depends primarily on the type and length of the completed program, subject to passport validity and other eligibility rules.
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Program Under 2 Years
For most eligible programs that are at least eight months but less than two years, IRCC may issue a PGWP for up to approximately the same length as the study program.
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Program 2 Years or Longer
Graduates of eligible programs that are two years or longer may receive a PGWP valid for up to three years.
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Master's Degree
Eligible master's degree graduates may qualify for a three-year PGWP even when the master's program is less than two years, provided the program is at least eight months long and all other eligibility requirements are met.
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Multiple Programs
In some situations, the length of two eligible programs may be combined when determining PGWP validity if each program meets the applicable requirements.
MASTER'S GRADUATES
A Shorter Master's Degree Can Still Lead to a 3-Year PGWP
Eligible graduates of master's degree programs have a special PGWP duration rule.
A qualifying master's degree that is at least eight months in duration may lead to a three-year PGWP even if the academic program itself is less than two years long.
This special rule applies to master's degree programs and should not automatically be applied to certificates, graduate certificates or diplomas of a similar duration.
1-Year Master's ≠ 1-Year PGWP
An eligible master's degree of at least eight months may qualify for a PGWP of up to three years.
Review My Master's ProgramMULTIPLE PROGRAMS
Can Two Programs Be Combined for PGWP Length?
In certain cases, graduates who complete more than one eligible Canadian program may be able to combine the lengths of the programs when IRCC determines the duration of the PGWP.
Generally, each program used in the calculation must independently meet the applicable PGWP requirements, including the minimum program length.
Where different language or field of study requirements apply to the programs, the applicable eligibility requirements must also be satisfied.
Both Programs Must Be Eligible
Completing two programs does not automatically produce a longer PGWP. Each program should be reviewed before relying on combined program length.
Review My Two ProgramsONE-TIME OPPORTUNITY
You Generally Cannot Receive a Second PGWP
A Post-Graduation Work Permit is generally available only once.
If you previously received a PGWP after completing an earlier program of study, completing another Canadian program does not normally make you eligible for a new PGWP.
For this reason, the timing of a PGWP application can have significant consequences for students who are considering additional studies in Canada.
Plan Before You Apply
If you intend to complete another Canadian program, consider how applying for your PGWP now may affect your future immigration strategy.
Discuss My PGWP StrategyAPPLICATION DEADLINE
You Generally Have 180 Days to Apply
Eligible graduates generally have up to 180 days after their school first officially confirms that they completed their program to submit a PGWP application.
Depending on the institution, this confirmation may be shown through final marks, an official transcript, a completion letter or another official document confirming program completion.
Your study permit must also have been valid at some point during the 180-day period after you completed your program.
Do Not Wait for Convocation
The PGWP timeline is connected to confirmation of program completion, not necessarily your graduation ceremony or convocation date.
Calculate My DeadlineSTATUS IN CANADA
What If Your Study Permit Expires?
Your immigration status at the time of application can affect how you apply and whether restoration is required.
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Valid Study Permit
Many graduates apply while they still hold valid temporary resident status in Canada.
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Changed to Visitor
A graduate who has changed their status to visitor may still be able to apply for a PGWP within the applicable 180-day period.
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Lost Student Status
In certain situations, a graduate whose study permit expired may need to restore their status as a student when applying for the PGWP.
WORKING AFTER GRADUATION
Can You Work While Waiting for Your PGWP?
A graduate may be authorized to work full-time while IRCC processes the PGWP application if, when the application was submitted, they held a valid study permit, had completed their program and were eligible to work off campus without a work permit.
They must also have complied with the applicable limits on off-campus work while they were studying.
Graduates should confirm their work authorization before beginning or continuing employment.
Confirm Before You Start Working
Filing a PGWP application does not give every applicant automatic authorization to work. Your individual status and application history should be reviewed.
Check My Work AuthorizationDOCUMENTATION
Common Documents for a PGWP Application
Your documentation should establish that you completed an eligible program and meet all applicable PGWP requirements.
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Completion Letter
An official letter from your institution may be used to confirm that you completed your program requirements.
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Official Transcript
Your transcript can demonstrate program completion and your full-time enrolment history.
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Study Permit
Your Canadian study permit and immigration history are relevant to establishing PGWP eligibility.
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Language Test Results
Most applicants now need to provide approved English or French language test results with their application.
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Field of Study Evidence
Applicants subject to the field of study requirement may need to provide evidence confirming the eligible CIP code.
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Passport
Passport validity can affect how long your work permit is issued for.
PASSPORT VALIDITY
Your Passport Can Shorten Your PGWP
A PGWP cannot normally be issued beyond the validity of your passport.
If you are otherwise eligible for a longer PGWP but your passport expires earlier, IRCC may issue the work permit only until the passport expiry date.
In qualifying situations, you may later be able to apply for the remaining period after obtaining a new passport.
Check Your Passport Before Applying
If possible, make sure your passport is valid for the full period of PGWP eligibility before submitting your application.
Review My Permit LengthMEDICAL EXAM
Some Jobs May Require an Immigration Medical Exam
Certain occupations involving health care, children or other protected settings may require an immigration medical examination.
Without an appropriate medical examination, a PGWP may contain restrictions preventing the holder from working in certain occupations.
Graduates planning to work in occupations such as health care or child care should consider whether an upfront medical examination may be appropriate.
Planning to Work in Health Care?
Review medical examination requirements before applying so that your future employment options are not unnecessarily restricted.
Review My SituationAPPLICATION PROCESS
How the PGWP Application Process Works
A strong PGWP application begins with confirming eligibility before the application is submitted.
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Confirm Program Eligibility
Review your school, campus, program, credential and program length.
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Review Your Study History
Review full-time status, authorized breaks, part-time studies and any changes during your program.
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Confirm Additional Requirements
Determine the applicable language requirement and whether your program must satisfy the field of study rule.
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Prepare Your Documents
Gather your completion letter, transcript, language results, passport and other required supporting documents.
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Submit Before the Deadline
Submit the PGWP application within the applicable 180-day period and address your immigration status as required for your circumstances.
COMMON PGWP ISSUES
Situations That Should Be Reviewed Carefully
Small differences in a student's academic or immigration history can have significant consequences for PGWP eligibility.
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Part-Time Studies
Part-time semesters outside the permitted final-semester exception may raise eligibility concerns.
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Leave From Studies
Authorized and unauthorized leaves can have different immigration consequences and should be reviewed.
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School or Program Changes
Changing institutions, campuses or programs can affect the analysis of PGWP eligibility.
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Distance Learning
Completing the majority of a study program through distance learning can make a graduate ineligible for a PGWP, subject to limited historical exceptions such as certain temporary COVID-era measures.
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Expired Study Permit
Applicants whose student status has expired may need a different application strategy or restoration.
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Wrong CIP Code
Where a field of study requirement applies, relying on an incorrect CIP classification can create serious eligibility problems.
AFTER GRADUATION
How a PGWP Can Fit Into Your Permanent Residence Plan
For many international graduates, the PGWP is an important bridge between Canadian education and future permanent residence.
Canadian work experience gained while holding a PGWP may help an applicant qualify for programs such as the Canadian Experience Class or certain Provincial Nominee Programs.
However, simply working in Canada does not guarantee permanent residence. The occupation, TEER category, language results, CRS score, provincial eligibility and other factors can affect the available pathway.
Plan Beyond the PGWP
Your PGWP has a limited validity period. Building a permanent residence strategy early can help you use that time effectively.
Plan My PR PathwayIMPORTANT INFORMATION
PGWP Rules Have Changed Significantly
PGWP eligibility rules have changed substantially in recent years, including new language requirements and field of study requirements.
Advice that applied to students who began their studies several years ago may not apply to a student beginning the same program today.
Your study permit application date, credential, program CIP code, institution, study history and graduation date should all be considered before determining eligibility.
Graduating Soon?
AddPlus Immigration Solutions Inc. can review your program, academic history, immigration status and post-graduation plans before you submit your PGWP application.
Request a PGWP AssessmentFROM STUDY TO WORK
Start Your Next Chapter in Canada
Tell us about your school, program, study permit, graduation date and immigration plans. Our team can help you understand your PGWP eligibility and prepare for your next step in Canada.
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