The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is a vital part of Canada’s Temporary Residence programs, offering international graduates the chance to stay and work in Canada legally after finishing their studies. It not only provides valuable Canadian work experience but also opens doors to permanent residency pathways like Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).
The PGWP is an open work permit issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). It allows eligible graduates of Canadian Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) to work for any employer in Canada for a limited time.
The PGWP is a temporary residence document designed specifically for international students transitioning from school to the workforce.
Key features:
Open (no job offer required)
Valid for up to 3 years
Can be used to gain work experience toward permanent residence (PR)
To qualify for a Post-Graduation Work Permit, you must:
Graduate from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
Complete a program of study that was at least 8 months long
Be a full-time student in most semesters
Apply within 180 days of receiving your transcript and confirmation of completion
Hold a valid study permit at the time of application or have maintained status
You studied in a program under 8 months
You took unauthorized leaves or dropped to part-time (except final semester)
You previously received a PGWP
You can apply for a PGWP:
Online through your IRCC account
From inside or outside Canada
IMM 5710 (Application to Change Conditions)
Completion letter and final transcript from your school
Valid passport
Study permit copy
Fee: $255 CAD
Apply before your study permit expires, or within the 180-day window, even if you’ve left Canada.
Required for most applicants unless already submitted in the last 10 years.
| Length of Study Program | PGWP Duration |
|---|---|
| 8 months to <2 years | Same as program length |
| 2 years or more | Up to 3 years |
| Combined programs | May be combined to extend permit |
As a temporary resident with a PGWP, you can:
Work full-time
Work for any employer in any location
Switch jobs without needing a new permit
No Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is required.
This freedom makes the PGWP one of the most flexible temporary work permits in Canada.
Your PGWP work experience can be used toward eligibility for PR programs such as:
Requires 12 months of full-time skilled work
NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3
Many provinces target PGWP holders
Start your journey with April In The Rockies Immigration — your future in Canada begins here. Book your free consultation today and take the first step toward permanent residence with expert guidance every step of the way.
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