Graduating from a Canadian institution opens the door to working in the country—and potentially settling down later. In this guide, Phoenix GRS explains what a Canada work permit (specifically, the Post‑Graduation Work Permit or PGWP) is, how to become eligible, how to apply, and how it can lead to permanent residency.
1. What Is a Canada Work Permit (PGWP)?
A Canada work permit for international graduates is called a Post‑Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). Issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), this open permit allows eligible graduates to work full-time in any job, for any employer, anywhere in Canada .
You don’t need a job offer or an LMIA. You can begin working full-time while IRCC processes your application—if your study permit was valid when you applied and you remained eligible through the application period.
2. Why International Graduates Choose the PGWP
The PGWP is ideal because:
- It offers up to 3 years of open work authorization, depending on the length and level of your study program.
- It provides a pathway to Canadian permanent residency through programs like the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) under Express Entry or provincial nominee programs (PNPs).
No employer sponsorship or job offer is required, making it accessible and flexible.
3. Who Is Eligible for a PGWP?
To qualify, you must meet the following criteria:
Completed a qualifying program:
- Full-time study for at least 8 months at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada, leading to a degree, diploma, or certificate
Maintained full-time status:
- Except for your final term, if you had valid study permit status throughout.
Applies within 180 days of graduation:
- You must submit your PGWP application within 180 days of receiving your final transcript or completion letter. Your study permit must have been valid at some point during that window .
Language and program restrictions (Nov 1, 2024 changes):
- University degrees (Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD) continue to qualify in any field if you meet CLB 7 language proficiency in reading, writing, speaking, and listening.
- College and non-degree programs now must be in one of five sectors—Agriculture, Agri‑Food, Healthcare, STEM, Trades, or Transport—and meet language benchmarks (CLB 5 or 7 depending on level).
4. How Long Is Your PGWP Valid?
- Programs 8 months to less than 2 years → PGWP validity matches program duration (e.g., a 1-year course means a 1-year permit).
- Programs of 2 years or more → Up to 3 years PGWP.
- Master’s programs and above (even under 2 years) allow up to a 3-year permit if other criteria are met.
5. How to Apply: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Gather your documents
- Final transcript and official letter confirming program completion.
- Valid passport copy, digital photo, study permit, and biometrics.
- Language test results (CLB 7 or CLB 5 per requirement).
- Medical exam results if required.
Step 2: Submit online via IRCC
- Apply online using a secure account.
- Pay the application fee (CAD 255) and biometrics fee if applicable.
Step 3: Keep your study permit valid
- You can remain in Canada and work full-time while the application is processed if your study permit is still valid when you apply .
- If your study permit expires before you apply, consider applying for a visitor record or restoring your status before applying for PGWP.
Step 4: Apply within the 180-day window
- Timing is crucial—submit your application within 180 days of receiving your completion documents.
6. Work Authorization While Applying
If you apply before your study permit expires and meet eligibility requirements:
- You can work full-time while your PGWP is under review—even beyond the initial 180 days—thanks to the WP-EXT rule (WP‑Extension letter)
If your study permit expires before applying or approval, you cannot work until the PGWP is issued.
7. After the PGWP: Next Steps Toward Residency
With Canadian work experience gained through the PGWP, you can:
Express Entry → Canadian Experience Class
- Qualify for PR through the CEC stream, which often gives priority due to work experience in Canada
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
- Many provinces offer streams for international graduates with Canadian work experience (e.g. Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program, BC PNP).
8. Recent Policy Updates (as of June 2025)
- IRCC recently added 119 eligible programs and removed 178 others from PGWP approval lists, aligning eligibility with labour market needs. Check updated DLI lists before enrolling in programs post‑November 2024
- New language benchmark requirements are now in force: university degrees require CLB 7; eligible college fields require CLB 5 or 7 depending on level and sector .
9. Common Applicant Mistakes & How Phoenix GRS Can Help
Mistakes to avoid:
- Missing the 180-day deadline after graduation.
- Enrolling in a non-PGWP-eligible program or unsigned DLI.
- Letting your study permit expire before applying—leading to forbidden work until approval.
- Not meeting updated language requirements or field-of-study restrictions.
How Phoenix GRS supports you:
- Advises on PGWP-eligible institutions and programs.
- Guides on language test preparations and benchmarks.
- Helps you submit an accurate PGWP application online, track deadlines, and maintain legal status.
- Provides counselling on Express Entry, PR pathways, and provincial nominee programs.
10. Sample Timeline: From Graduation to Work Permit
| Milestone | Timeline |
| Receive transcript / graduation | Day 0 |
| Submit PGWP application | Within 180 days |
| Work eligibility while applying | Full-time if application made before permit expiry |
| PGWP processing time | 80 to 180 days on average |
| Start full-time work (if eligible) | Immediately while processing continues |
| Apply for PR / Residency | Once you acquire eligible Canadian work experience |
11. Contact Phoenix GRS Today
Need expert guidance on navigating PGWP and beyond? Reach out:
Phoenix GRS Immigration Services
📍2nd Floor, KMJ Identity, Post Office, No.515, 20th Main Rd, above Chaayos, Koramangala 8th Block, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560095
📞 Phone: +91 9071570020
+91 9164373352
📧 Email: [email protected]
🌐 Website: https://phoenixgrs.com/
Our team specializes in helping international students transition from study permits through PGWP to permanent residency—skillfully managing deadlines, documentation, and PR strategy.
12. Final Thoughts
A Canada work permit via the Post‑Graduation Work Permit program is a powerful bridge from international student status to skilled worker and permanent residence in Canada. But eligibility rules have tightened, especially after November 1, 2024—making clarity, timing, and accurate application essential.
For professional help navigating eligibility, application, timelines, or PR pathways, Phoenix GRS is your trusted partner. Let us help you unlock Canada’s opportunities through strategic planning and personalized support.
