The Post Graduation Work Permit gives international students the chance to work after graduation by granting a Canada work permit for up to three years.
The PGWP is exempt from Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) requirements.
The candidate must have attended a recognized post-secondary school, or a secondary school that offers qualifying programs, for at least eight months.
For programs last between eight months and two years, the Post Graduation Work Permit is issued for the length of the study. For international students who have studied for two years or more, a three-year permit is issued.
The valuable work experience gained during this period can count towards a permanent residence application through Canada Express Entry.
Post Graduation Work Permit
Who Can Apply?
Candidates must:
Be 18 or older.
Have continuously studied full-time in Canada in a program at least eight months long.
Have completed and passed all your program requirements
Have graduated from one of the following:
Public post-secondary school, such as a college, trade/technical school or university
Private post-secondary school that operates under the same rules as public schools
Canadian private school that can legally award degrees under provincial law (for example, Bachelor’s, Masters or Doctorate degree) but only if you are enrolled in a study program leading to a degree as authorized by the province.
Apply within 180 days of completing the program.
How Long Is It Valid?
The validity of a PGWP is linked to the length of study. If a candidate studied for less than eight months, they are not eligible.
| Length of Study | 8 months to 2 years | 2 years or more | More than one program |
| Duration of PGWP | Same as length of study | 3 years | Cumulative total length of study is applicable |
