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Post-graduation work permit in Canada: check your eligibility and apply with confidence
Finish your studies, then start working in Canada. Get help confirming eligibility, meeting the 180-day deadline and planning your path to permanent residence.
- Check if your school, program and credential qualify
- Prepare the documents and language results your file needs
- Apply on time and plan your next step toward PR
No cost and no commitment for your initial assessment.
Free initial PGWP assessment
Tell us where you are now. A consultant will contact you about your eligibility and next steps.
Turn your Canadian education into Canadian work experience
A post-graduation work permit (PGWP) lets eligible international graduates work in Canada after they finish their studies at an eligible school.
Work for most employers
A PGWP is an open work permit, so you are generally not tied to a single employer or job offer.
Build Canadian work experience
Gain skilled experience in Canada that can strengthen your profile for later immigration applications.
Keep your options open
Use your time on a PGWP to explore careers, employers and permanent residence pathways.
One chance, so plan it well
A PGWP can generally be issued only once, and the rules around it have changed. The earlier you check, the better.
Do you qualify for a PGWP?
These are the main points IRCC looks at. Your situation may include others.
Rules change often
PGWP requirements, including language levels and eligible fields of study, have been updated several times in recent years. We check the current rules against your school, program and dates before you apply.
- Eligible school and program: you completed a program of at least eight months at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) that qualifies for a PGWP
- Full-time study in Canada for the program
- Eligible field of study where it applies, which can include some non-degree programs
- Language results at the level required for your credential, still valid on the day you apply
- On-time application: within 180 days of written confirmation that you completed your program
- Valid study permit at some point during those 180 days
- No previous PGWP, since it can generally be issued only once
Your path to a post-graduation work permit
Free initial assessment
Tell us about your school, program, graduation date and study permit. We identify the questions that matter most for your case.
Eligibility review
We review your institution, credential, field of study, language results and timing against the current rules.
Document preparation
Get a clear checklist and help organizing your completion confirmation, transcripts, language results and identity documents.
Application and follow-up
Submit a complete application on time and stay informed about what to do while you wait.
Work and PR planning
Plan how your work experience can support your longer-term goals, including permanent residence.
Common reasons PGWP applications run into trouble
Most problems can be prevented when you check eligibility before you graduate.
Missing the 180-day window
The deadline runs from your school's written confirmation of completion. Waiting until you feel ready can cost you the chance to apply.
A program or field of study that does not qualify
Not every program at every school leads to a PGWP. Check this before you enroll and again before you graduate.
Missing or expired language results
Test results must meet the required level and be valid when you apply. Book your test early.
Letting your status lapse
If your study permit is close to expiring, timing matters. Getting advice early gives you more options.
What you will typically prepare
Your exact list depends on your program and personal history. Here is what most PGWP applications include.
- Valid passport and current study permit
- Written confirmation from your school that you completed your program
- Transcripts or other proof of your studies
- Language test results from an accepted test, valid when you apply
- Photos and application fees
- Other records if requested, such as biometrics or police certificates
From PGWP to permanent residence
Many graduates use their PGWP to gain Canadian work experience before applying for permanent residence. Planning both steps together can save time.
Express Entry
Canadian education and skilled work experience can help your profile. Eligibility depends on your circumstances and current rules.
Provincial programs
Some provinces invite graduates and workers who fit local labour needs.
Plan before your PGWP ends
Work permit length is limited, so it helps to map your options while you are still working.
What AOICI clients say
“Opportunities and blessings came each year... we got our citizenship. It has been a fruitful 5 years of staying here.”
“AOICI has been amazing. They went above and beyond in their efforts to help us start a new life here.”
Testimonials are client experiences published by AOICI. Individual outcomes vary. Read more success stories
Questions about the PGWP
Who is eligible for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP)?
Generally, you must have completed a program of at least eight months at an eligible Designated Learning Institution, studied full time, and apply on time with the required language results. Some non-degree programs must also be in an eligible field of study. Rules change often, so we check your school, program and dates before you apply.
How long is a PGWP valid?
The length depends on your program length and credential, and it can be up to three years. We confirm what you can expect for your program during your assessment.
How long do I have to apply for a PGWP?
You must apply within 180 days of receiving written confirmation from your school that you completed your program. The clock starts from that confirmation, not from your last exam or graduation ceremony, so it is best to prepare early.
Do I need a language test for a PGWP?
Most applicants must submit valid English or French test results, and the required level depends on your credential. Your results must still be valid on the day you apply. We confirm the level that applies to your program and help you plan your test date.
Can I keep working while I wait for my PGWP decision?
Some graduates may be able to keep working while their application is processed, but it depends on your status and when you applied. Speak with us before your study permit expires so you do not risk a gap.
What if my study permit expires before I apply?
In some situations you may still be able to apply, but it can add steps and fees, and outcomes vary. If your permit is close to expiring, contact us as early as possible so we can review your options.
Can a PGWP help me get permanent residence?
A PGWP does not guarantee permanent residence, but Canadian work experience can support pathways such as Express Entry and provincial programs. We can help you plan how your work experience fits your longer-term goals.
Is the initial assessment really free?
Yes. AOICI currently offers a free, commitment-free initial assessment so you can understand your options before deciding on next steps.
Talk to a consultant about your PGWP
Graduating soon or already finished? Reach out today so you do not miss your application window.
- Phone+63 (074) 661-2707
- Emailinfo@aoicivisapathway.com
- Visit usFind the office nearest you on our branches page.