Post Graduation work permit

Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

Canada’s Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) allows international graduates to work for any Canadian employer without requiring a job offer. It is valid for up to three years, depending on the length of the completed Canadian educational program.

Key Benefits:

• Gain professional work experience in Canada.
• Qualify for Canadian immigration programs that reward Canadian study and work experience.
• Become eligible for permanent residence after obtaining one year of professional experience in NOC 0, A, or B categories.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for a PGWP, applicants must:

Educational Program

• Complete an academic, vocational, or professional training program of at least 8 months at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
• The program must lead to a degree, diploma, or certificate.

Student Status

• Maintain full-time student status in Canada throughout their program. (Exceptions apply for COVID-19-related disruptions or leaves in the final academic session.)

Confirmation of Completion

• Provide a transcript and an official letter from the DLI confirming completion of the program.

Graduated From

• A public post-secondary institution (e.g., college, university, or trade school).
• A private institution in Quebec operating under public school rules or offering qualifying programs (e.g., DEP or ASP).
• A private Canadian school authorized to award degrees (associate, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctorate) in provincially approved programs.

Note: As of November 1, 2024, new eligibility criteria apply:

• Language proficiency: CLB 7 (university graduates) or CLB 5 (college graduates).
• College graduates must be in programs aligned with in-demand sectors of the Canadian labour market.

Required Supporting Documents

• A letter of completion from the DLI.
• An official transcript confirming program requirements have been met.