Post Graduation Work Permit 

The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is Canada’s open work permit for international graduates, allowing them to work for any employer without needing a job offer. Available to graduates from designated Canadian institutions (DLIs), the PGWP provides full-time work opportunities for up to three years, with the permit duration generally matching the length of the completed study program. This work experience can also support future applications for permanent residence. 

Key Details of the PGWP:

• The PGWP can be valid between eight months and three years, based on the program duration.

• Graduates have 180 days after completing their program to apply.

• It’s an open permit, allowing work in any industry or location.

• Only one PGWP is allowed per person; graduates who already held one are ineligible.

• Those who apply for a PGWP before their study permit expires can work while waiting for permit approval.

• Applications can also be submitted from outside Canada.

• Graduates with a valid PGWP may be eligible to sponsor their spouse for an open work permit.

Eligibility:

• Graduates must complete an eight-month (or longer) program from a DLI, study full-time (except final terms), and apply within 180 days of completion.

• Authorized leaves (e.g., family or medical reasons) are permitted up to 150 days without affecting eligibility.

Special Cases:

• Accelerated programs may qualify for the original program length.

• Programs with distance learning must include less than 50% online courses.

Ineligibility:

• Ineligible applicants include those with previous PGWPs, participants in language or self-improvement courses, and students completing studies by distance learning over 50%.

Changes in PGWP (November 2024):

Canada's Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program is set to undergo significant changes starting in November 2024. Here’s an overview of the updates that may impact current and future applicants:

1. Eligible Fields of Study: The new criteria prioritize fields critical to Canada’s labor needs. Eligible programs now align closely with specific sectors facing labor shortages, including healthcare, agriculture, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), trades, and transportation. Programs in these areas will have a greater likelihood of PGWP eligibility, meaning that students will need to ensure their study programs match Canada’s designated needs to qualify for the work permit​.

2. Language Proficiency Requirements: Applicants must meet minimum language benchmarks to demonstrate they can integrate effectively into the workforce. University graduates applying for a PGWP must achieve at least Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 7 in English or NCLC 7 in French. For college graduates, a lower CLB or NCLC score of 5 is acceptable. Recognized tests for these benchmarks include IELTS, CELPIP for English, and TEF, TCF for French​.

3. Verification via CIP Codes: Programs will be categorized according to their Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) code, which helps applicants verify whether their specific program qualifies under the new guidelines. This coding system offers clarity for students and institutions to align their programs with Canada’s updated PGWP eligibility requirements​.

These changes are intended to better match international graduates with the skills needed in the Canadian labor market, providing pathways to work experience and potentially permanent residency in high-demand sectors. If you’re planning to apply for a PGWP, it’s important to review both your program’s field and language requirements to meet the new standards.