About the Post-Graduation Work Permit
The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) allows eligible international students to stay in Canada after their studies and work in their profession.
It is an open work permit valid for up to three years. It is issued to graduates of an eligible designated learning institution. You can stay in Canada and work for any employer without a job offer.
The length of the permit depends on several factors, the most important being the length of your program:
- If your program was shorter than 8 months, you are not eligible.
- If it was between 8 months and less than 2 years, the permit generally matches the length of your program.
- If it was 2 years or longer, you can receive a 3-year permit.
- Master’s graduates can receive a 3-year permit even if their program was shorter than 2 years (but at least 8 months).
These are the general rules and outcomes can vary. For example, someone eligible for three years whose passport expires sooner will receive a permit only until the passport’s expiry date. The officer may also issue a longer or shorter permit in some cases.
You generally have 180 days from the date your institution confirms you have completed your program to apply. You will need your transcript, your degree or diploma and a letter of completion from your institution.
How to apply
In most cases, you must now apply online through your IRCC account. You complete the application form, upload your documents and pay the fee.
Keep in mind that since December 23, 2024, PGWP applications are no longer accepted at the Canada–U.S. border (flagpoling).