Working after Studies Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

Working after Studies Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

Canada offers eligible international graduates the opportunity to gain valuable Canadian work experience after completing their studies through the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) programme.

The PGWP is an open work permit that generally allows eligible graduates to work for employers across Canada without requiring a job offer before applying.

Depending on your qualification, programme duration and eligibility, a PGWP may be issued for up to three years.

However, not all Canadian institutions or study programmes qualify for a PGWP. Students should carefully check their eligibility before choosing a course.

How Long Can You Work in Canada After Graduation?

The duration of a Post-Graduation Work Permit depends on the qualification and length of the programme completed.

Important: The special three-year provision for shorter master's degrees applies to eligible master's degree programmes, not postgraduate certificates or diplomas.

The duration of your PGWP may also be limited by the expiry date of your passport.

Who Is Eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit?

To qualify for a PGWP, international graduates generally must:

• Complete an eligible programme at a PGWP-eligible Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
• Study in a programme lasting at least eight months, or meet the applicable Quebec programme requirements.
• Maintain full-time student status during their studies, except where permitted, such as the final academic semester.
• Meet the English or French language requirements.
• Meet the field-of-study requirements, where applicable.
• Meet the applicable in-person study and distance-learning requirements.
• Apply for a PGWP within 180 days of receiving confirmation of programme completion.
• Meet all other IRCC immigration and study permit conditions.

Graduating from a DLI does not automatically guarantee PGWP eligibility.

English Language Requirements for PGWP

Under the rules introduced on 1 November 2024, most PGWP applicants must provide evidence of English or French language proficiency.

The minimum language level must be achieved in all four skills: listening, speaking, reading and writing. Accepted tests include IELTS General Training, CELPIP General, PTE Core and eligible French language tests.

Language test results must meet IRCC's validity requirements when applying.

Field-of-Study Requirements

Certain international graduates must also meet specific field-of-study requirements to qualify for a PGWP.

Bachelor's, master's and doctoral degree graduates are exempt from the PGWP field-of-study requirement.

Students graduating from certain college diplomas, postgraduate certificates and other non-degree programmes may need to complete a programme in an IRCC-approved field of study if their study permit application was submitted on or after 1 November 2024.

Eligible fields are linked to Canada's labour market requirements and include selected programmes in:

• Healthcare and social services
• Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM)
• Education
• Skilled trades
• Agriculture and agri-food
• Transport

Not every programme within these categories qualifies.

IRCC uses Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) codes to determine eligibility. Students should verify the exact CIP code of their intended programme before applying.

For 2026, IRCC has frozen the list of eligible fields of study, with no additions or removals during the year.

Are All Canadian Colleges Eligible for PGWP?

No. Students should confirm that both their institution and chosen programme meet PGWP eligibility requirements.

In particular, programmes delivered through certain public-private college partnership arrangements are generally not eligible for a PGWP, subject to limited transitional exceptions.

Students should not assume that studying at a recognised or designated institution automatically makes them eligible for post-graduation work opportunities.

Plan Your Studies in Canada with Uni2Go

Choosing the right university or college is about more than securing admission. Understanding your qualification, programme eligibility and potential post-study work options is an important part of planning your education journey.

At Uni2Go, our experienced education counsellors can help you explore Canadian study programmes, understand PGWP eligibility and make informed decisions about your international education.

Your Future. Your Choice. Our Guidance.

Information reviewed: November 2026. Canadian immigration policies and PGWP eligibility requirements are subject to change. Students should always consult the official IRCC website for the latest information.