📚 Canada PGWP Guide
Complete guide to applying for Canada's Post-Graduation Work Permit after your degree
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Overview
The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) allows international students who have graduated from a Canadian Designated Learning Institution (DLI) to work in Canada. The permit duration depends on the length of your study program and provides valuable Canadian work experience for future immigration applications.
✅ Eligibility Requirements
You Must Have:
- ✓Completed studies at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
- ✓Graduated from an eligible program (minimum 8 months)
- ✓Maintained full-time student status during studies
- ✓Applied within 180 days of receiving final marks
- ✓Valid study permit when applying
PGWP Duration by Program:
Program 8-12 months
8-12 months PGWP
Certificate, diploma programsProgram 12-24 months
12-24 months PGWP
Bachelor's, master's programsProgram 24+ months
3 years PGWP
Master's, PhD programs📋 Step-by-Step Application Process
Check Your Eligibility
Ensure you meet all PGWP requirements:
- • Verify your institution is a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
- • Confirm your program meets the minimum duration requirements
- • Ensure you maintained full-time student status
- • Check that you have your final marks/degree certificate
Gather Your Documents
Prepare these documents before starting your application:
- • Valid passport
- • Degree certificate or official letter
- • Academic transcripts
- • Proof of study permit
- • Medical certificate (if applicable)
- • Police certificates (if applicable)
- • Digital photo
- • Application form
Complete the Application
Fill out the online application form:
- • Go to cic.gc.ca/english/work/pgwp
- • Create or sign in to your IRCC account
- • Complete all required fields
- • Upload supporting documents
- • Review and submit your application
Submit and Wait
Complete your application:
- • Pay any applicable fees (PGWP is free)
- • Submit your application online
- • Processing typically takes 80 days
- • Receive approval via IRCC account
Activate Your PGWP
Once approved, activate your work permit:
- • Visit a port of entry or IRCC office
- • Present your approval letter and documents
- • Provide biometrics if required
- • Receive your physical work permit
🚀 What You Can Do on PGWP
Work
Work in any occupation without restrictions
Look for Work
Take time to search for suitable employment opportunities
Start a Business
Set up your own business or work for yourself
Study
Study part-time courses without affecting your visa
Travel
Travel freely in and out of Canada during your permit period
Bring Family
Bring your partner and children to live with you
🔄 PGWP and Express Entry Connection
Benefits for Express Entry:
Canadian Experience
Gain valuable Canadian work experience
CRS Points
Earn points for Canadian work experience
Language Practice
Improve English/French language skills
Express Entry Pathways:
Federal Skilled Worker
Apply with Canadian work experience
Canadian Experience Class
Direct pathway with 1 year Canadian experience
Provincial Nomination
State nomination for additional CRS points
⏰ Application Timeline
Application Window
Apply within 180 days of final marks
Processing Time
80 days average processing time
Travel Plans
Apply before study permit expires
Success Stories
Engineering Graduate
“After completing my master's in Toronto, I got a 3-year PGWP. Within 2 years, I received provincial nomination from Ontario and became a permanent resident through Express Entry.”
Business Student
“Started with a PGWP after my MBA, gained work experience, and scored high enough in Express Entry to get ITA in my first draw. Now working as a permanent resident in Vancouver.”
What's Your Next Step?
⚠️ Important Considerations
- • Application Deadline: Must apply within 180 days of receiving final marks
- • Study Permit: Must maintain valid study permit when applying
- • DLI Status: Must study at a Designated Learning Institution
- • Full-time Study: Must maintain full-time student status during program
- • Official Sources: Always check cic.gc.ca for latest information
- • Biometrics: You may need to attend an appointment for biometrics