How Much Does It Cost to Apply for a Post Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) in Canada?

The total cost for a standard PGWP application is $255 CAD, which is divided into: 

• $100 CAD: This mandatory payment goes towards the “Open Work Permit Holder” fee. 

• $155 CAD for the standard work permit fee. 

  Additional costs include: 

• If biometrics are required, you will need to pay an additional $85 CAD 

• If your study permit has expired, you will need to pay $355 CAD in total:  

  • $200 to restore your worker’s status 

  • $155 CAD for your new work permit        

Depending on your situation, as provided in the IRCC website,you may need to pay additional fees to third parties, which will be separate from any IRCC costs. These third-party costs may include: 

• Medical Exams (or e-medical): Required for applicants planning to work in certain fields such as healthcare, teaching, or for those who have lived in designated countries or territories for 6+ months within the past year. 

• Police Certificates: Necessary for certain applicants to demonstrate a clear criminal record. 

• Language tests: Proof of your language proficiency is a necessary part of your PGWP application.  

• Visa Application Centre (VAC) fees: Applicable if you use VAC services to submit biometrics or other documents.   

Please note that these fees can vary and must be paid directly to the respective service providers. 

For mandatory fees charged by the IRCC, the process is straightforward:      

1. Create an Online Account: Log in or register with the IRCC online portal. 

2. Calculate Your Total Fees: Ensure all relevant charges, including biometrics or restoration fees, are accounted for. 

3. Pay Online: Use a valid debit or credit card to make the payment directly through the portal. 

4. Keep Your Receipt: Save your payment receipt, as it is required for your application submission.   

All payments must be completed online. Make sure you have paid all fees applicable to your individual situation to avoid unnecessary delays. 

Fee exemptions are rare, but they may be waived or reduced for applicants under specific circumstances or programs. Check with IRCC or consult your school’s international student centre to see if you qualify. 

Mistakes in fee payments can lead to delays or application rejections. Avoid these common pitfalls:

• Missing Required Fees: Forgetting to pay both the work permit holder fee and standard processing fee.

• Not Paying Biometrics Fees: If biometrics are required, ensure the $85 CAD fee is included.

• Ignoring Third-Party Costs: Budget for any required medical exams or police certificates to avoid surprises.

Understanding the fee requirements for your PGWP application can help give you a clear picture of how much you need to pay to apply for your worker’s permit. It is important to research what costs are involved in advance, so you don’t encounter any surprises.  

Your worker’s permit is an important step towards transition to life and a fulfilling career in Canada. If you would like more information and guidance on furthering your academic journey, reach out to IDP Canada’s experts. We are here to help.   

Book an appointment today. 

Legal Disclaimer: IDP Education is not a registered migration consultant and does not provide immigration services or provide immigration advice. The contents of this page are for general information only and is based on information from the IRCC website, which you can access through: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship.html. Information can change from time to time. For the most up to date information visit the IRCC website. Advice on your immigration circumstances may need to be considered by a registered migration consultant for Canada. The information contained does not take into account your personal circumstances. The outcome of every immigration application is different. The likelihood of any particular outcome for your application is dependent upon the details of your submission alone.