Work in Canada after graduation
The Post-Graduation Work Permit is an open work permit for eligible graduates from PGWP-eligible designated learning institutions in Canada. It can be one of the most important bridges from a Study Permit to Canadian work experience and eventually permanent residence through Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Program, or regional pathways.
PGWP rules changed in recent years, so your eligibility must be checked against the date you applied for your study permit, your level of study, your program, your school, your language results, your field of study if applicable, and your passport validity.
Key PGWP eligibility points
You generally need to:
- complete an eligible program at a PGWP-eligible designated learning institution
- complete a program that is at least 8 months long, or 900 hours for certain Quebec programs
- apply within 180 days after receiving confirmation that you completed your program
- provide required language results if the current rules apply to you
- meet field-of-study requirements if they apply to your program
- maintain valid temporary resident status or restore status where allowed
- hold a passport valid long enough to receive the full PGWP length you qualify for
Graduating from a DLI does not automatically mean your program is PGWP-eligible. This is one of the most common and expensive mistakes international students make.
Why PGWP strategy matters for PR
The PGWP is usually issued only once. That means your first Canadian job, NOC TEER level, employer documents, wage records, hours, and timing can affect whether you qualify for Canadian Experience Class, a provincial nomination, or another PR route. Planning should start before graduation, not after your work permit is close to expiring.
Useful next steps:
- use the CLB Converter to understand language scores
- estimate your CRS score
- compare Express Entry and PNP
- review LMIA-Based Work Permit options if your PGWP is running out
Common documents
Your PGWP application normally includes your passport, completion letter, final transcript or official transcript evidence, language test results where required, and proof related to field-of-study rules if they apply. If your study permit expires before you apply, the restoration pathway has strict timing and fee requirements.
Official reference
For current PGWP rules, see IRCC's Post-Graduation Work Permit page.
