Post-graduation work permit (PGWP)
We did not confirm an open, paused or closed status on a government page on this date. Check IRCC before you apply. Last looked at November 9, 2026: IRCC’s page.
A post-graduation work permit (PGWP) is an open work permit for some graduates of designated learning institutions, so they can gain Canadian work experience after their studies. It is for international students who finished an eligible program. Its detailed criteria are set by IRCC rather than written into the Regulations.
PGWP criteria (eligible programs, field-of-study and language rules, permit length) are IRCC program rules that changed several times recently. We cite the regulations that apply around the PGWP and send you to IRCC for the criteria themselves.
Who is eligible
- IRCC: graduates of certain designated learning institutions are eligible; its PGWP pages list the programs, fields of study and language requirements.
- If you met the off-campus work rules as a student and apply for a work permit before your study permit expires, you may keep working while IRCC decides (IRPR s 186(w)).
Steps
- Before you finish, read IRCC’s current PGWP eligibility pages.
- Apply before your study permit becomes invalid — 90 days after you complete your studies, or its expiry if earlier (IRPR s 222(1)(a)).
- Keep proof of program completion (final transcript and completion letter).
Documents you’ll usually need
- Final transcript.
- Letter confirming program completion.
- Any language results IRCC requires for your program.
What the law says
“applied for a work permit before the expiry of that study permit”
Working while a work-permit application made before your study permit expired is pending.
“the day that is 90 days after the day on which the permit holder completes their studies”
Your study permit ends 90 days after you complete your studies.
“limited access to the Canadian labour market is necessary for reasons of public policy relating to the competitiveness of Canada’s academic institutions or economy”
The Regulations let IRCC designate work open to foreign nationals for reasons of public policy tied to the competitiveness of Canada’s academic institutions or economy.
Official IRCC pages
Program rules not written in the statute, plus current fees and processing times, are on IRCC’s own pages:
Common mistakes
- Waiting until after the study permit is invalid to apply.
- Assuming every program at a designated school qualifies — IRCC’s list decides.
Frequently asked questions
How long after graduating can I apply for a PGWP?
Your study permit becomes invalid 90 days after you complete your studies, unless it expires first (IRPR s 222(1)(a)). Check IRCC’s PGWP page for its application window.
Related streams
- Study permit Check IRCC
Permission to study in Canada at a designated learning institution, and the conditions that come with it.
- Canadian Experience Class Invitation-only
Permanent residence for people with at least one year of skilled work experience in Canada.
- Open work permits (including spousal) Check IRCC
Work permits not tied to one employer — who can get one, including spouses in Canada.