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Work permits

Canadian Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

An open work permit for eligible international graduates of Canadian designated learning institutions, letting them work for almost any employer anywhere in Canada after finishing their studies.

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Important information

Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official Canada government website before you apply.
On this page
Official name
Post-Graduation Work Permit
Route type
Temporary open work permit (usually)
Study programme length
At least 8 months (900 hours for Quebec programmes)
Application deadline
Within 180 days of confirmation you completed your programme
Language proof
Required for most applicants from 1 November 2024 (e.g. CLB/NCLC 7 for university graduates)

Who it is for

  • Students who have graduated from a PGWP-eligible designated learning institution
  • Graduates who maintained full-time student status during each academic session of their programme
  • Those whose study permit was valid at some point during the 180 days after completing their programme

Requirements

  • Completed a programme of at least 8 months (or 900 hours in Quebec) at a PGWP-eligible DLI
  • Apply within 180 days of receiving written confirmation you completed the programme
  • Provide required language test results (most applicants, from 1 November 2024)
  • For many non-degree programmes, the field of study must be on the eligible field-of-study list (for study permits applied for on or after 1 November 2024)

What you can do

  • Work full-time, part-time or self-employed for (in most cases) any employer in Canada
  • Gain skilled Canadian work experience that can count toward permanent residence
  • A PGWP is issued only once in a lifetime

How to apply

  • Gather your proof of completion (degree/diploma and transcript or a completion letter)
  • Apply online through your IRCC secure account
  • You may be able to apply from inside or outside Canada depending on your situation

Official sources

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.

Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.

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