Build Your Future in Canada

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The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is one of Canada's most important pathways for international students looking to stay and work after graduation.
Issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, the PGWP allows eligible graduates of Designated Learning Institutions to gain open work authorization and Canadian job experience
Whether you're completing a certificate, diploma, a bachelor’s degree, or a master's program, understanding your PGWP options is essential to securing your future in Canada.

What is the PGWP?

The PGWP is an open work permit that allows international graduates to unlock
their potential in Canada's thriving job market.

Work full-time for any employer in Canada

Open work permit with no restrictions on
employers

Gain valuable Canadian work experience

Build your resume with recognized
Canadian employment

Apply for Permanent Residency (PR)

Through Express Entry, CEC, or Provincial
Nominee Programs

PGWP Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the PGWP, you must meet these essential requirements:

Have completed an eligible program of at least 8 months
Graduate from a public post-secondary institution or eligible private institution
Apply within 180 days of receiving written confirmation of graduation (completion letter and transcript)
Maintain valid temporary resident status in Canada
What Type of Institutions Qualify?
To be eligible for a PGWP, you must graduate from an approved institution type.
Qualifying Institutions
A public post-secondary institution (e.g., college, university, or CEGEP)
A private institution that is authorized to award degrees under provincial law
A recognized flight school (for specific aviation-related programs)
Not Eligible
Your program is focused solely on English or French as a second language
Your studies were at a non-Canadian institution operating within Canada
PGWPs are issued only once in a lifetime. Plan your studies strategically to maximize your Canadian work experience and permanent residency opportunities.
New Field of Study Requirement
IRCC has introduced additional criteria for PGWP eligibility based on your field of study and credential level. While bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees remain fully eligible, certificate and diploma programs at the college level must now be in approved fields of study.
You are EXEMPT if:
You applied for your PGWP before November 1, 2024
You applied for your study permit before November 1, 2024
You graduated from a PGWP-eligible flight school
You graduated with a bachelor's, master's, or doctoral degree
Important Notes
If none of the exemptions apply, your program must match one of the approved fields listed by IRCC. General interest, language training (ESL/FSL), and non-academic self-improvement programs remain ineligible.
Need help determining if your program qualifies? Our experts can assess your eligibility.
Can I Start Working After Applying?
Yes — You Can Start Working Full-Time!
You can start working full-time while waiting for a decision on your PGWP application, giving you the opportunity to begin your Canadian career immediately.
This benefit allows you to:
Begin earning Canadian work experience immediately
Start building professional networks
Generate income while your application is processed
Why the PGWP Matters
The PGWP is more than just a work permit — it's a launchpad to permanent residency and your future in Canada.
Increase your CRS score for Express Entry
Canadian work experience significantly boosts your Comprehensive Ranking System score
Become eligible for Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
One of the most popular pathways to permanent residency for international graduates
Qualify for provincial streams
Access programs like Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP), BC PNP Tech, and more
Integrate into the Canadian job market
Build professional networks and establish your career in your chosen field
Canadian work experience under a PGWP helps you:
Build a strong professional reputation
Develop Canadian workplace skills
Establish financial stability
Create lasting professional connections
Gain references for future applications
Understand Canadian business culture

Why Choose StepUp Immigration?

Our team of licensed RCICs will ensure your PGWP application is timely, compliant,
and aligned with your long-term goals.

PGWP eligibility assessments before graduation
Ensure you're on the right track before you graduate
Full application preparation and review
Comprehensive support throughout the entire process
Strategic planning for career and PR pathways
Plan your long-term success in Canada
Guidance on spousal work permits and dependents
Support for your entire family's immigration journey
Ready to Get Started?
Call Us Today
+1 (780) 885-8484
Email Us
info@stepupimmigration.com
FAQ'S

Answers to all Questions

Can I apply for a PGWP from outside Canada?

Yes, but you must have valid temporary status or restore your status before applying.

Is a job offer required to apply?

No. A PGWP is an open work permit — no job offer is needed.

What if I studied online or part-time?

This may affect your eligibility. We recommend a one-on-one review with our expert team.

Is my spouse eligible for a work permit too?

Yes — if you're employed in a NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 occupation, your spouse can apply for an openwork permit.

What is the new field of study requirement for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)?

As of November 1, 2024, international students applying for a PGWP must meet new eligibility criteriabased on the type of credential and the field of study. In general, students who complete graduate-levelprograms (bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degrees) remain eligible regardless of the field. However, forcollege-level certificate and diploma programs, eligibility now depends on whether the field of study isconsidered eligible under IRCC’s updated list. Programs focused on English or French as a secondlanguage, general interest, or self-improvement courses remain ineligible. Applicants who do not fallunder the exemption categories must ensure their program aligns with the updated PGWP-eligible fieldspublished by IRCC.

Can I start working after I apply for my Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)?

Yes, you can start working full-time after submitting your PGWP application if you meet all of thefollowing conditions: you held a valid study permit when you applied, you completed a full-timeprogram at a PGWP-eligible designated learning institution (DLI), you were authorized to work off-campus during your studies, you did not exceed the permitted work hours, and you applied for thePGWP before your study permit expired. If all these conditions are met, you may begin working whileyou wait for a decision on your PGWP application.

Ready to Launch Your Canadian Career?
Connect with our RCICs to start your PGWP journey today and plan your transition to permanent residency in Canada.
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