Important Updates to the PGWP Program
June 2024
- As of June 21, 2024, applicants are no longer permitted to apply for PGWP at the Canada-US border through “flagpoling”. Applicants must apply for PGWP online. Please learn more on the IRCC website.
September 2024*
- On September 18, 2024, IRCC announced changes for temporary residents in Canada. These changes included new language proficiency requirements for post-graduation work permit applications as of November 1, 2024, and limiting work permit eligibility to spouses of workers in management or professional occupations or in sectors with labour shortages later this year. Refer to the Sepember 18, 2024 backgrounder and September 18, 2024 news release for more information.
- Additional details on the new PGWP eligibility requirements were published on October 4, 2024.
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The instructions for the spousal open work permit program have not been updated yet.
Post-Graduation Work Permit Program
The Post-Graduation Work Permit Program (PGWPP) allows students who have graduated from a participating Canadian post-secondary institution to gain valuable Canadian work experience.
A work-permit under the PGWPP may be issued for the length of the study program, up to a maximum of three years.
Post-Graduation Work Permit Eligibility
Review the full PGWP eligibility criteria on the IRCC website.
How long is a Post-Graduation Work Permit valid?
The length of a work permit is always determined at the discretion of the assessing officer. In most circumstances, a PGWP cannot be valid for longer than the length of your studies in Canada.
| Length of eligible studies | Work Permit Length |
|---|---|
| less than 8 months | not eligible for a work permit |
| 8 months, but less than 2 years | may be eligible for a work permit that is valid for up to the same length as your study program |
| 2 years or more | may be eligible for a work permit that is valid 3 years in length |
| completed more than 1 program | may be eligible for a work permit that combines the length of each program. Each of the programs you completed must be PGWP-eligible and at least 8 months in length. |
| accelerated programs | if program completed in less time than the regular length of the program, may be eligible for a work permit that is valid for the full length of the program |
| Masters and PhD programs at least 8-month in length | may be eligible for a work permit that is valid 3 years in length |
How do I apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit?
Visit our "Apply for PGWP" webpage to find a step-by-step application tutorial.
Disclaimer
The immigration information on this page has been reviewed and endorsed by Regulated International Student Immigration Advisors (RISIAs) in compliance with the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act and Regulations. However, this is not a legal document and information may change without notice. Always refer to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for the most up-to-date information.