The Post Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is an open work permit that allows international graduates from eligible Canadian schools to work for any employer in Canada for up to three years, depending on their program length.

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Finishing your studies in Canada is a big achievement. Many international students ask the same question after graduation: “Can I stay and work in Canada now?”

The good news is: yes, you can. Canada offers something called the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). It lets you work, build your career, and even start the path toward permanent residency.

Think of it as a bridge between being a student and becoming a professional in Canada. It’s flexible, it’s open, and it gives you the chance to gain real Canadian work experience.

What Is the PGWP?

The PGWP is a special work permit for international students who graduate from an eligible school in Canada. The government calls these schools Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs), basically, approved colleges and universities.

Here’s what makes the PGWP special:

• It’s an open work permit. That means you can work for any employer, in any city, full-time or part-time.
• It’s usually valid for up to three years, depending on your program.
• You can only experience it once in a lifetime, so it’s essential to plan carefully.

Many students use the PGWP to get valuable Canadian experience. Later, that experience can help when applying for permanent residency.

Eligible Programs and CIP Codes for PGWP: Which Fields Qualify for Your Work Permit

Not every program in Canada makes you eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). To qualify, your program must have a CIP code (Classification of Instructional Programs) that’s on the approved list.

Key Points:

• Programs must be at least 8 months long.
• Only programs at Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) are eligible.
• The government updates the list of eligible CIP codes regularly, adding new fields and sometimes removing others.
• Popular eligible fields include:
  • Healthcare and medical programs
  • Education and teaching programs
  • Trades and technical programs
  • Business and finance programs
• If your field isn’t on the list, you won’t qualify for a PGWP, so it’s important to check early.

Quick Tip:
You can ask your school’s international office for your program’s CIP code and confirm if it’s eligible. Staying on top of updates can save time and ensure you don’t miss out.

For the official and most up-to-date list of eligible CIP codes, please refer to the IRCC’s official page on currently eligible CIP codes.

Who Can Apply for a PGWP? (Eligibility)

Not everyone qualifies. But don’t worry, we’ll break it down simply.

To be eligible, you need to:

• Graduated from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
• Complete a program that’s at least 8 months long.
• Be enrolled as a full-time student most of the time (there are a few exceptions, like during the final semester or breaks).
• Apply within 180 days after you finish your program.

Quick Example

When I studied in Vancouver, my program was 2 years. That gave me the chance to get a 3-year PGWP. But my friend, who studied for 1 year, only got a 1-year permit.

How Long Is the PGWP Valid?

The length of your PGWP depends on the length of your program:

One important detail: Your passport must be valid for a sufficient period. If it expires earlier, your PGWP will also expire earlier. The good news is you can renew your passport and then apply to extend your PGWP later.

✅ Tip: Check your passport expiry date now, it can save you a lot of stress.

Apply for the PGWP

Applying might feel scary at first, but don’t worry. If you take it step by step, it’s simple.

When to Apply

• You must apply within 180 days after your school confirms you’ve graduated.
• This confirmation could be a transcript or an official letter.
• If your study permit expires before you apply, you may need to change your status or apply from outside Canada.

✅ Tip: It’s best not to wait. Apply early to avoid problems.

How to Apply

Most students apply online, and that’s the fastest way. Here’s what you’ll need:

• A valid passport
• Your completion letter and transcript from your school
• Digital copies of your documents (scanned or clear photos)
• A credit card or debit card to pay the fees

You’ll also need to pay:

• Work permit fee
• Open work permit holder fee
• Biometrics fee (if required)

Can You Work While Waiting?

Yes, if you:

• Had a valid study permit when you applied
• Completed your program
• Were eligible to work off-campus before graduation

That means you can usually work full-time while your PGWP application is being processed.

✅ Pro tip: Keep the receipt from your application and show it to your employer as proof you’re allowed to work.

PGWP Application Checklist – Step by Step

Step 1: Confirm Graduation

• Get your completion letter and transcript from your school.

Step 2: Check Your Passport

• Make sure it’s valid for the full length of your possible PGWP.
• Renew it first if needed.

Step 3: Prepare Documents

• Passport copy
• School documents (completion letter + transcript)
• Digital photo
• Proof of fees paid (work permit + open permit + biometrics if required)

Step 4: Apply Online

• Create or log in to your IRCC account.
• Upload all documents.
• Pay the fees.

Step 5: Give Biometrics (if asked)

• Book an appointment.
• Provide fingerprints + photo within 30 days.

Step 6: Keep Working (if eligible)

• If you applied before your study permit expired, you can usually work full-time while waiting.

Step 7: Wait for Decision

• Processing takes about 3–6 months.
• Check your account for updates.

Step 8: After Approval

• Download your PGWP from your account.
• Update your SIN, health coverage, and TRV/eTA if needed.

After You Apply: What Happens Next?

Once you hit “submit,” here’s what comes next.

• While Waiting:
  • You’ll get messages through your IRCC account.
  • You may be asked for biometrics (fingerprints and photos). You’ll have 30 days to do this.
  • You can keep working full-time if you applied on time and meet the rules.
• After Approval:
  • You’ll receive your PGWP digitally in your IRCC account.
  • Update your SIN (Social Insurance Number) so you can work legally.
  • Update your health coverage (like MSP in British Columbia).
  • If needed, renew your Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to travel.
• For Your Family:
  • Starting January 2025, spouses and common-law partners of PGWP holders may also be able to get an open work permit, but this depends on the job you get in Canada.

Travel Tips

If you plan to travel while waiting:

• Make sure your TRV or eTA is still valid.
• If you leave before your PGWP is approved, you may need to wait until you re-enter with proper documents.

✅ Remember: Keep copies of everything, your PGWP, letters, and receipts. It’ll make life easier later.

Tips & Common Pitfalls

Many students make small mistakes that cause delays or stress. Here’s how to avoid them:

Smart Tips

• Check your passport: Make sure it’s valid for as long as possible. Your PGWP won’t last longer than your passport.
• Apply early: Don’t wait until day 179. The sooner you apply, the sooner you’ll get peace of mind.
• Keep all school documents: Letters, transcripts, and enrollment proofs are very important.
• Understand your rights: If you applied on time, you can usually keep working full-time while waiting.
• Stay updated: PGWP rules change sometimes. Always check official government pages for the latest news.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Forgetting to apply within 180 days.
• Not staying full-time during studies (except for the final semester or breaks).
• Starting work before submitting the PGWP application (this is not allowed).
• Applying with an expired passport.

The Botton Line

The Post Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is more than just a work permit. It’s a chance to turn your Canadian education into a career, and maybe even permanent residency.

Every year, thousands of international students use the PGWP to gain valuable work experience. Some work in big companies, others start small businesses, and many later become permanent residents of Canada.

I still remember my first day of work after graduation. I was nervous, but also proud. The PGWP gave me the chance to grow, to feel part of Canada, and to dream bigger. That same opportunity is waiting for you.

Don’t leave it to chance. Fill out the free consultation form today, and let’s see how you can start your own Canadian success story.

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