The Post-Graduation Work Permit allows eligible graduates of certain Canadian designated learning institutions and programs to gain Canadian work experience after graduation. Graduation from a DLI does not automatically make every student eligible.
At a glance
- PGWP-eligible institution and program
- Application timing after completion of studies
- Language requirements and field-of-study rules where applicable
- Study-permit validity, full-time study and special-case rules
Application timing
IRCC generally requires an eligible graduate to apply within 180 days of confirmation that the program was completed, subject to the detailed study-permit validity rules.
Program eligibility
The school and the specific program should be checked for PGWP eligibility. Public-private curriculum licensing arrangements and other program structures can affect eligibility.
Language and field of study
Current PGWP rules include language requirements for many applicants and field-of-study requirements for certain non-degree programs, subject to the applicable exemptions and transition rules.
Work while waiting
Some applicants who submit a PGWP application while meeting the statutory requirements may be authorized to work while IRCC processes the application. The exact conditions should be checked against the applicant’s facts.
Official government resources
Use these official sources for the current program rules, forms and government instructions.
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