Besides being an interesting way to acquire work experience in the country, it is also a means of extending the period you’re allowed to stay in Canada and eventually apply for permanent residency.

However, there are still many questions about how the permit works, who is eligible, and whether its regulations might change in the near future. To answer these questions, we’ve prepared this article explaining all you need to know about the PGWP.

What is the Post Graduation Work Permit?

The PGPW is a program offered by the Canadian government that allows individuals who have completed their postsecondary studies in Canada to remain in the country and work for a limited period.

Students who graduate from an eligible university or vocational program may receive authorization to work for up to three years after obtaining their diploma.

In addition to providing valuable Canadian work experience, the Post-Graduation Work Permit can also help graduates qualify for permanent residency.

Who has the right to a PGWP?

To be granted a Post Graduation Work Permit, you must:

● Have completed an academic, vocational, or professional program of at least 8 months in duration, resulting in a degree, diploma, or certificate;

● Have graduated from a public post-secondary institution (note: private colleges are generally not eligible for the PGWP, except for a few authorized exceptions);

● Have maintained full-time student status throughout your studies;

● Have an official transcript and letter from your institution confirming that you have completed your program and met all graduation requirements. The institution must also be listed as a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), a definition granted by the Canadian government;

● Have taken an approved language test (such as CELPIP-General, IELTS General, PTE Core, TEF Canada, or TCF Canada) within 2 years of the PGWP application and met the required score: CLB 7 for degree programs (bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD) and CLB 5 for diploma or certificate programs.

● Have held a valid study permit within 180 days before submitting your PGWP application.

It's important that all institutions where you studied are recognized as eligible for the PGWP. Many international students choose to complete two consecutive programs—such as a diploma followed by a certificate—as a planned path to qualify for a longer PGWP. In this case, both programs must meet the eligibility criteria and be completed within two years at qualifying institutions. However, to be eligible, both programs must meet the PGWP requirements individually, and you must apply with the transcripts and completion letters from each program..

You can check the list with all DLIs separated by province in this link. 

2025 PGWP Changes: Choose Your Program Carefully

The Government of Canada implemented significant changes to PGWP eligibility in 2025. These updates may greatly impact students enrolling in non-degree programs, especially in diploma or certificate studies.

The change is straightforward: as of June 25, 2025, international students who complete non-degree programs (i.e., diplomas or certificates) must have studied in one of the 920 eligible fields of study, identified by specific CIP codes, to qualify for a PGWP.

This aligns PGWP criteria with current labor market priorities across Canada. Degree graduates (bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD) are exempt from the field-of-study requirement, while diploma/certificate students must meet both institutional (DLI) and program-specific (field-of-study) eligibility.

🔗 You can view the full list of eligible fields of study on the IRCC website here: “Field of study: Currently eligible CIP codes”

How long can I expect my PGWP to last?

● For programs 8 months to less than 2 years, your PGWP may match the length of your studies.

● For programs of 2 years or more, you may receive a 3-year PGWP.

● If you complete two eligible programs within two years, you may also qualify for a 3-year PGWP.

How do I apply for the Post Graduation Work Permit?

Applications for the PGWP must be submitted online through the official IRCC portal, whether you are applying from within Canada or from abroad.

The only exception is for individuals with a physical disability that prevents them from using the online system. In such cases, IRCC may provide alternative formats for a paper-based application.

You’ll need to create or log in to your IRCC account (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) to complete the application. The process is similar to applying for a study permit.

There's support if you need it

You don’t have to navigate this process alone. Students can apply to Canadian colleges and universities either directly or with the support of specialized agencies. Some agencies act as official representatives of certain schools and can assist with both the admission process and study permit applications. Most institutions also have an international student office that provides guidance before and after arrival in Canada. And when the time comes to apply for your PGWP, you can choose to complete the process yourself through the IRCC website, or, if preferred, work with a regulated immigration consultant for additional support. In all cases, the process is flexible—and help is available if you need it.

*Remember that you cannot apply for a Post Graduation Work Permit if your studies lasted less than 8 months, or if you studied English or French at a language course.

**This article was written with information available in July 2025. If you’re reading this long after this date, we advise you to search for more recent information on the subject.