Post Graduate Work Permit

Post-Graduation Work Permit Program (PGWPP) allows international students graduated from eligible Canadian designated learning institutions (DLIs) to obtain an open
work permit. This offers international students an opportunity to gain valuable Canadian work experience. National Occupational Classification (NOC) skill type O or skill
level A or B experience helps graduates qualify for PR in Canada through the Canadian experience class within Express Entry.
PGWPs are exempt from Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIA) and are coded as C43, issued under IRPR 205(c)(ii). PGWP holders can work any number of hours with any employer, and can even be self-employed.

Why YCI for your PGWP application?

All immigration services including application submissions are provided by members of The College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC), formerly ICCRC, authorized by Canadian immigration law
No hidden fees; all terms, conditions, payments and service details in the study permit pricing will be clearly outlined in the retainer agreement before you pay
All fees are in Canadian Dollars (No USD billing) and YCI follows the Bank of Canada exchange rates for currency conversions, where applicable
YCI takes your privacy and information very seriously and will not use your identifiable details for marketing and promotions (we do not post your visa photo on social media)
At YCI, we will help you in getting your application documented properly, giving you a stronger foundation for future immigration applications including extensions, work permits, PR and citizenship

YCI Fee Structure

Below fee table is for the applicant only. If you are applying with dependent family members, please add $500 for spouse and $100 for each dependent child.

Loyalty Plan

Past student clients.

  • Must have admission service from YCI
  • Fast track process
  • Professional application preparation
$299 (coming soon)

Pro Plan

Kickstart with YCI.

  • All in Loyalty Plan, plus below:
  • RCIC consultation over phone or Teams (if needed)
$499 (coming soon)

Pro+ Plan

Gives the best shot for complex cases.

  • All in Pro Plan, plus below:
  • Address any compliance concerns, past refusal and includes restoration
$999 (coming soon)

PGWP Length

PGWP can be issued for a maximum validity of up to three (3) years and may not be extended. There are cases where the PGWP was given for a shorter duration due to
passport expiry, the applicant can apply for PGWP again with a new passport and get their balance of the PGWP length. For accelerated studies, the PGWP counts based
on the original program length.
Length of the program or programs of study, including Quebec vocational programs with a diploma of college studies (DCS) and an attestation of college studies (ACS)Length of Quebec vocational programs with a diploma of vocational studies (DVS) or attestation of vocational specialization (AVS)Length of the post-graduation work permit that can be issued
The program of study is at least 8 months and less than 2 years.The vocational program of study is at least 900 hours and less than 1,800 hours.The length of the work permit should coincide with the length
of the program, as confirmed by the eligible DLI in the written confirmation of program completion (such as an official letter of completion or transcript).
The program of study is 2 years or longer.The vocational program of study is 1,800 hours or longer.If the length of the program is confirmed by the eligible DLI in the written confirmation of program completion (such as an official letter or transcript), the length of the work permit should be 3 years.
The student completed more than one program from an eligible DLI within 2 years (each program being at least 8 months in length).The student completed more than one DVS or a DVS and an AVS from an eligible DLI within 2 years (each program being at least 900 hours in length).The length of the work permit should combine the length of each program. If the combined length of the programs is 2 years or longer (or 1,800 hours or longer for a combination of a DVS with an AVS in Quebec), the work permit may be valid for up to 3 years.

PGWP validity depends on the length of study program completed in Canada. Only the portion of study completed from an eligible DLI will count. If the final diploma/certificate was issued from an ineligible DLI, it will not count. In case, where a portion of study was completed at an ineligible DLI and transferred to an eligible DLI with final diploma/certificate issued from the PGWP eligible DLI, only the portion of studies completed at the eligible DLI will count.

If your Master degree program was between 16 months to 24 months, you may get a 3 year PGWP.

PGWP Eligible DLIs

Updated: March 05, 2023
Details (Quebec) / Details for Graduates of certain Quebec schools* – your program must be 900 hours or longer and lead to 1 of the following:
Diplôme d’études professionnelles (DEP) (Diploma in Vocational Studies)
Attestation de spécialisation professionnelle (ASP) (Attestation of Vocational Specialization)
Diplôme d’études collégiales (DEC) (Diploma in College Studies)
Attestation d’études collégiales (AEC) (Attestation of College Studies)
Yes (Details – Flight School)** – You must meet one of these requirements:
You’ve completed a flight training course at a Canadian training centre and now have a Canadian commercial pilot’s license, or
You have or you are in the process of getting an instructor’s rating, and you have a job offer to work as a flight instructor at a flight training centre.

Post Graduate Work Permit in Canada: Start Your Career After Graduation

Graduating from a Canadian institution opens doors to many exciting opportunities, including the chance to gain valuable work experience in Canada. The Post Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) allows recent international graduates to work in Canada, helping them to build careers, broaden skills, and contribute to Canada’s economy. This guide covers the essentials: from eligibility and benefits to application steps, so you are set to transition smoothly from studies to professional life in Canada.

What is the Post Graduate Work Permit (PGWP)?

The Post Graduate Work Permit is a unique work permit offered by the Canadian government that allows international graduates from eligible Canadian institutions to work in Canada for up to three years after completing their studies. This open work permit gives graduates the flexibility to work for any employer, in any location within Canada, making it a stepping stone toward establishing themselves professionally in the country.

Who is Eligible for the Post Graduate Work Permit?

To qualify for the PGWP, you must meet certain requirements:

  • Completion of a Program: You must have completed a full-time program (at least eight months long) at an eligible Canadian post-secondary institution, like a public college or university.
  • Valid Study Permit: You need to have held a valid study permit at some point during the last six months before applying.
  • Eligible Institution: The institution must be a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) that is recognized by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) as eligible to host international students.
  • Eligible Program: The program must also be approved under the updated PGWP eligibility requirements.

Additionally, the program completed must lead to a degree, diploma, or certificate to qualify for the PGWP. If you meet these criteria, you are one step closer to working in Canada after graduation.

Key Benefits of the Post Graduate Work Permit

The PGWP provides international graduates with many valuable advantages, including:

  • Work Flexibility: The PGWP is an open work permit, so you are free to work in any occupation, industry, or region in Canada.
  • Valuable Canadian Experience: Gain hands-on work experience in Canada, which may qualify you for permanent residency programs like the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) under Express Entry.
  • Career Development: The PGWP lets you explore career paths, build connections, and develop a professional foundation in Canada without the restrictions of a job-specific permit.

How to Apply for the Post Graduate Work Permit

Applying for the PGWP is straightforward if you meet the eligibility requirements. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you apply:

  1. Gather Required Documents: Make sure to collect essential documents, such as your official transcript, completion letter from your institution, valid language test results, and proof of a valid study permit. If your study permit has expired, you may need to include restoration as a part of the application.
  2. Submit Your Application: Apply online via your IRCC account. The application process includes filling out forms, uploading documents, and paying the relevant fees.
  3. Pay the Application Fees: PGWP application fees include a standard work permit fee and an open work permit holder fee.
  4. Check Processing Times: Processing times vary, so regularly check the IRCC website to know when you can expect a response.

It is important to apply within 180 days of receiving your final marks to maintain eligibility, and you can apply from inside Canada if your study permit is still valid.

How Long is the PGWP Valid For?

The length of your PGWP depends on the length of your study program:

  • 1-Year Program: You may be eligible for a work permit of equal length to your study program (e.g., a 1-year program may lead to a 1-year PGWP).
  • 2-Year Program or More: Programs lasting two years or longer typically qualify for the full 3-year PGWP.

This flexible time frame allows you to gain sufficient work experience and consider pathways to permanent residency.

Frequently Asked Questions About the PGWP

Can I Extend My PGWP?
The PGWP is typically a one-time permit and generally cannot be extended. However, if your PGWP was issued for a shorter duration due to the expiry of your passport, you can request the balance of the validity once you have your new passport. If your PGWP is nearing expiration and you are on the path to permanent residency, you may explore other work permit options, such as the Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP).

What Happens If I Leave Canada After Receiving My PGWP?
Your PGWP allows you to work in Canada, so you can return to Canada to resume work if you leave temporarily. Just make sure your permit, visa or eTA and other travel documents are valid.

Can I Apply for Permanent Residency with PGWP Experience?
Yes! Canadian work experience gained through the PGWP makes you eligible for Canadian Experience Class (CEC) under the Express Entry system, a popular pathway for international graduates to transition to permanent residency.

Important Considerations When Applying for the PGWP

  • Timing is Crucial: Apply as soon as you receive confirmation of graduation. Applying too late (after 180 days) could make you ineligible.
  • Stay Organized: Make sure to gather all documents before you begin the application, as missing paperwork can lead to processing delays.
  • Keep an Eye on Your Status: If your study permit has expired, you may need to add a restoration application. If you submitted your PGWP application before the expiry of your study permit, you may remain on a maintained status until a decision is made on your application.

Transitioning from PGWP to Permanent Residency

For many graduates, the PGWP is a stepping stone to permanent residency in Canada. The Canadian Experience Class (CEC), which is part of the Express Entry system, is specifically designed to make it easier for skilled workers with Canadian experience to apply for PR status. Your Canadian work experience under the PGWP boosts your Express Entry Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, improving your chances of receiving an invitation to apply (ITA) for PR.

What if You Can’t Secure Employment Right Away?

While the PGWP offers flexibility, some graduates may face challenges in finding employment. Consider the following options:

  • Volunteer or Intern: Seek internships or volunteer opportunities to build experience and expand your network.
  • Continue Your Studies: You can enroll in further studies, but keep in mind that once you start studying full-time again, you may need to reapply for a study permit.

Ready to Start Your Career with the PGWP?

The Post Graduate Work Permit is your ticket to jumpstart your professional journey in Canada. From gaining experience to building a career, the PGWP offers a strong foundation for international graduates to establish themselves in the Canadian job market and even pursue long-term residency.

Are you prepared to take the next step? With the PGWP, you are empowered to make the most of your Canadian education, develop your career, and start planning for a permanent future in Canada. Contact us today and get started!