The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) can allow eligible graduates of certain Canadian designated learning institutions to obtain an open work permit after completing their studies. Eligibility is not automatic simply because a person studied in Canada. The institution, program, length and mode of study, full-time status, application timing, language results and, for some graduates, field of study can all matter.
PGWP eligibility
Applicants must have completed a PGWP-eligible program at an eligible DLI and meet the requirements that apply to their studies. Students should verify PGWP eligibility before enrolling because DLI status alone does not make every program PGWP eligible.
Application timing and status
A PGWP application must be filed within the applicable period after the school confirms completion. Applicants in Canada should review their temporary status and study-permit validity carefully. Completing studies early can affect when a study permit stops being valid.
Working while IRCC processes the application
Certain graduates who applied while their study permit was valid can work full-time while waiting for a decision if they meet all applicable conditions, including having been eligible to work off campus and respecting authorized hours during studies. A pending application should not automatically be treated as work authorization.
Language and field-of-study rules
Current PGWP rules include language requirements for many applicants. For certain non-degree programs, eligibility can also depend on completing a program in an eligible field of study. IRCC has frozen the eligible field-of-study list for 2026, but applicants still need to determine whether the requirement applies to their credential and program.
Length of a PGWP
The permit length depends on factors such as program length and passport validity. Completing a Canadian program does not automatically produce a three-year work permit. Current rules provide specific treatment for certain master's degree graduates.
Full-time study and academic history
Maintaining full-time status during required academic sessions is important. Authorized leaves, a part-time final semester, transfers, breaks and periods of study outside Canada should be reviewed against the rules that applied during the student's program.
After a refusal
A PGWP refusal can affect status and work authorization. The refusal reasons, application record and underlying eligibility should be reviewed before deciding whether another immigration application or legal remedy is available.
PGWP and permanent residence
A PGWP can help a graduate obtain qualifying Canadian work experience, but it does not guarantee permanent residence. Express Entry, Canadian Experience Class and provincial nominee programs have separate eligibility and selection rules.
See also Study Permit, Working While Studying and Express Entry. For individual advice, book a consultation.
Immigration criteria, document requirements and public policies can change. Advice should be based on the rules and facts applicable when you apply.