How does a Post Graduation Work Permit work?

A Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) was designed for students who have graduated from an eligible post-secondary Canadian Designated Learning Institution (DLI). These students can apply for and obtain an Open work permit (LMIA exempt) in order to achieve valuable Canadian work experience.

Additionally, skilled Canadian work experience gained through a PGWP can lead to further opportunities, such as permanent residency through the Express Entry program under the Canadian Experience Class.

Who is eligible?

Graduates applying for a PGWP before the expiry date of their study permit, can work full-time while waiting for a decision on their application. For a student to benefit from this, they must meet the entirety of the following criteria:

What can I do with this visa?

A PGWP is an Open work permit (not job-specific) which allows graduates to:

How long is the Work Permit valid for?

A PGWP is generally issued for the same length of the study program for people who studied in programs of more than 8 months (the minimum), but under 2 years in length. For programs of 2 years or longer, the PGWP may be issued for 3 years (the maximum).

When should I apply?

Students must apply within 180 days after either their final marks are issued to them or written confirmation of their completed studies, they must also have or have had a valid study permit at some point during these 180 days.

Whether a student has to apply for their PGWP from inside or outside Canada will depend on their current status.

Students must be aware that they are only eligible for one PGWP in their lifetime.