Working after your studies (PGWP)

Post-Graduation Work Permits - Overview

The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is an open work permit that allows Canadian graduates to work anywhere in Canada, without employer restrictions. This permit is crucial for international students wishing to gain work experience in Canada after their studies, and can play a key role in a future application for permanent residency.

Conditions of eligibility

To be eligible for the TCPP, you must meet several specific criteria, including :

• Submit your application within 180 days of completing your program of study.

• Completion of an eligible program of study at a Designated Educational Institution (DEI).

• Provide an official document attesting to the completion of your program (diploma, transcript or letter from the school).

Have completed a full-time program, unless an exception applies.

As of November 1, 2024, proof of your language skills in English or French will be required:

• CLB 7 for a university degree (bachelor's, master's, doctorate) or equivalent.

• CLB 5 for a college diploma or other non-university program.

Eligible programs and establishments

To be eligible, you must have studied in a program offering a diploma or certification in specific fields, such as skilled trades, health, science, etc. You must also have graduated from a recognized Canadian educational institution. You must also have graduated from an educational institution recognized in Canada. Certain exceptions apply, such as for flight schools or graduates of Quebec programs.

Specific cases of eligibility and exceptions

In certain special cases, you may be eligible for the PGWP despite special circumstances, for example if you have taken an accelerated program, or if you have studied part-time, provided you meet the eligibility criteria. Vocational or trade training programs in the province of Quebec may also qualify for this permit.

Permit validity period

The duration of the PTPD depends on the length of your program of study. In general :

• For programs of more than 8 months but less than 2 years, the permit will be valid for the duration of your program.

• For programs of 2 years or more, or master's or doctoral degrees, the permit will be valid for 3 years.

• It is also possible to combine the duration of several programs, provided that each is eligible and lasts at least 8 months.

Application procedure

From June 2024, it will no longer be possible to apply for a PGWP at a point of entry (airport or border). The application will have to be made online in most cases. Exceptions are possible if you are unable to submit the application online due to a disability or significant obstacle.

Working after submission

Once you have submitted your PGWP application, you may continue to work full-time as long as your study permit is valid and you have complied with the conditions for off-campus work. If your application is rejected, you must stop working immediately.

Processing times and costs

The fee for the DPWP application is $100 for the holder of an open work permit, plus a $155 processing fee. Processing times may vary, but IRCC strives to process 80% of applications within 120 days.

In summary, obtaining a Post-Graduation Work Permit is a major asset for international students wishing to settle in Canada after their studies. Make sure you meet the eligibility criteria and submit your application on time to maximize your chances of success.