Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant Mississauga, Ontario
Home » Immigration Services » Post-Graduation Work Permit
Work after study

Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Canada

A Post-Graduation Work Permit can allow eligible graduates of qualifying Canadian programs to gain Canadian work experience. PGWP eligibility has changed significantly, including language and field-of-study rules, so your school, program, study-permit date and graduation documents all matter.

Request a free consultation
Overview

What is a Post-Graduation Work Permit?

The PGWP is an open work permit for eligible graduates of certain programs at designated learning institutions. Graduating from a DLI does not automatically make every graduate eligible.

Eligibility

Who can apply for a PGWP?

Current general eligibility includes completing a PGWP-eligible program at an eligible DLI that is normally at least 8 months long, or 900 hours for qualifying Quebec programs, together with the applicable study, status and application requirements.

Key requirements

Language and field-of-study rules

Language

Most applicants under the newer rules must provide approved language results. The required level depends on the credential or program.

Field of study

Some non-degree programs must be in an eligible field linked to long-term labour shortages. Bachelor's, master's and doctoral graduates are among groups exempt from this requirement. IRCC has frozen the eligible field list for 2026.

Timing

You generally have up to 180 days after receiving confirmation that you completed your program to apply.

Application process

How the PGWP process works

  1. Confirm the DLI and program are PGWP-eligible.
  2. Review language and field-of-study requirements.
  3. Obtain the completion letter and transcript.
  4. Check study permit and temporary status.
  5. Apply within the 180-day period.
  6. Confirm whether you can work while the application is processed.
Documents

Documents commonly needed for PGWP

  • passport;
  • study permit and status documents;
  • completion letter and final transcript;
  • language test results where required;
  • proof of eligible field of study where required; and
  • restoration documents if relevant.
Permit length

How long can a PGWP be valid?

The length depends on the level and duration of the eligible study program and passport validity, subject to current IRCC rules. Passport expiry can shorten the permit issued.

Common issues

Common PGWP application problems

  • assuming every DLI program is eligible;
  • missing the 180-day window;
  • missing required language results;
  • non-degree program not meeting field-of-study rules;
  • status expiring before the application; and
  • working without confirming authorization after graduation.
Professional support

How Argus can help with a PGWP

Argus can review your school and program, study-permit date, language and field rules, status and deadline, prepare or review the PGWP application and explain work authorization while it is processed.

FAQs

PGWP FAQs

Does every DLI graduate qualify?

No.

How long do I have to apply?

Generally up to 180 days after graduation.

Do I need language results?

Most applicants under the newer rules do.

Does my field of study matter?

It can for certain non-degree programs.

Official information

Current government sources

Immigration rules can change. These pages were reviewed against current official sources on September 23, 2026:

Client experience

What clients say about working with Argus.

5 Star 246 reviews
Read all reviews on Google →
Your next step

Discuss your immigration case with Argus

Every application depends on the individual facts and the rules in force when you apply. A consultation can help identify the requirements, documents and issues most relevant to your situation.