Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) for International Students in Canada (August 2025 Update)
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) for International Students in Canada
Why Canada Remains a Top Destination for International Students
The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program in Canada allows eligible international students to work after their studies, provided they hold valid permits, and their applications follow IRCC guidelines.
Canada continues to be a welcoming and vibrant destination with its world-class education system, diverse culture, and inclusive environment, offering an unparalleled experience for those seeking to study abroad.
The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program is a testament to Canada’s commitment to supporting international graduates. This permit allows students who have completed eligible programs at Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) to gain valuable work experience, which can significantly enhance their career prospects and help them transition to permanent residency.
Read this blog to find out more about Canada work permit requirements in 2025, PGWP extensions, new rules for PGWP, language requirements, how to apply for PGWP, application requirements, and more. IRCC's new rules for international students' work permit are subject to change, which is why we urge you to always check with the IRCC for the latest updates.
What is PGWP in Canada?
A Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is an open work permit issued by the IRCC that allows international students who have completed a program at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada to work in the country. This permit provides valuable work experience that can be used to apply for permanent residency in the future, after graduation.
Please note: International students need to be aware that PGWPs are not guaranteed after graduation. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada will not give every international student a PGWP simply because they have graduated. Applications may be refused for failure to meet eligibility criteria, which is why students are always urged to seek expert advice before choosing a program. Graduates of eligible programs at recognized DLIs can apply for a PGWP, granting them the flexibility to work for any employer across Canada without needing a job offer before applying.
For students who are eligible, the length of a PGWP depends on the level and duration of your study program, as well as the expiry date of your passport, whichever comes first. Starting February 15, 2024, students graduating from master’s degree programs of less than 2 years (8 months minimum) may be eligible for a 3-year PGWP.
PGWP Eligibility Criteria (2025)?
You may be eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit if you meet the following criteria:
you have completed an eligible program at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) that was at least 8 months long
your program led to a degree, diploma, or certificate
you maintained full-time student status in Canada during each academic session of your study program, with exceptions for the final semester (studying part-time or taking approved leave)
you have a study permit that has been valid within the last 180 days
you applied to extend your study permit in Canada before your study permit expired and no decision has been made on your application.
To Be Eligible, You Must
Here's what the IRCC lists as requirements for international students who want to qualify for a PGWP. you must meet all of these:
Your study program must be 900 hours or longer
Your program must lead to 1 of the following: a diploma of vocational studies (DVS) / diplôme d’études professionnelles (DEP); attestation of vocational specialization (AVS) / attestation de spécialisation professionnelle (ASP); diploma of college studies (DCS) / diplôme d’études collégiales (DEC); or attestation of collegial studies (AS) / attestation d’études collégiales (AEC)
You must be enrolled in a PGWP-eligible program
You must also meet the following PGWP criteria:
Requirements based on study program: graduates with a bachelor’s degree, master’s degree or doctoral degree; graduates of any other university program; graduates from any other college, polytechnic or non-university program; graduates from a flight school
Requirements based on physical location (inside Canada graduates / outside Canada graduates)
Field of study requirements (if applicable)
You Are Not Eligible If
The IRCC says that international students in Canada are not eligible for a PGWP if they have:
already received a PGWP
studied English or French as a second language
taken general interest or self-improvement courses
received funding or a scholarship from GAC that requires them to return to their home country after graduation
completed over 50% of their study program through distance learning (online courses, e-learning or correspondence)
completed a study program at a non-Canadian institution located in Canada
completed a course or program of study at a DLI that is not PGWP-eligible. This includes programs delivered on behalf of a PGWP-eligible DLI through a curriculum licensing agreement (also known as public private partnerships, or P3s). Students can check the special cases for exceptions.
Eligibility Checklist
Here is a quick checklist related to PGWP eligibility in Canada in 2025:
Do you have proof that you’ve completed your studies in Canada?
Do you have a degree or diploma, an official letter from your school, or official transcript or copy of your transcript from your school’s website?
Do you have proof that you were enrolled in full-time studies for a program that was 8 months or longer?
If you submitted your application on or after November 1, 2024, do you have proof of language ability?
Are your language test results less than 2 years old?
If you applied for your study permit on or after November 1, 2024, do you have proof that you graduated in an eligible field of study (if applicable)?
Do you have proof of your upfront medical exam (if applicable)?
Eligible Study Fields for PGWP
The IRCC has updated rules for international students applying for a PGWP in Canada. To find out more information about it, check out our new page about PGWP Eligible Study Fields and Programs in 2025.
H3: Information for Certificate & Diploma Students
There are new rules for PGWP that need to be considered if you are an international student studying for a certificate or diploma.
Certificate programs are not automatically eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), because the IRCC states that eligibility depends on the specific program as well as your study permit application date. If your program was at least 8 months (or 900 hours for Quebec credentials), but less than 2 years, the IRCC may give you a PGWP that is valid for up to the same length as your study program.
Some diploma programs are eligible for a PGWP in Canada, but eligibility still depends on the specific field of study, length of the program, and type of institution. Always check with the institution you are applying to, for information on whether the certificate or diploma is PGWP-eligible.
If you have doubts, book a consultation with an IDP Canada counsellor.
Information for Undergraduate and Graduate Students
If you are an undergraduate or graduate student, there are eligible fields of study that can lead to a PGWP, provided you meet the IRCC’s requirements after you graduate.
PGWP Changes in 2025 – What’s New and What Hasn’t Changed
In June 2025, the IRCC introduced substantial changes to the list of educational programs that qualify for PGWP. It removed multiple previously eligible programs while adding new programs, as well as a new set of programs in the 'education' field of study. When it comes to PGWP changes in 2025, IRCC updates for international students related to work permits focus primarily on programs being in an eligible field of study. Find out more about this update here.
Among other key PGWP changes in 2025, starting November 1, 2024, all applicants must demonstrate a minimum level of French or English language proficiency. Also, master's and PhD students must submit a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) to be eligible.
International students who begin a study program that is part of a curriculum licensing agreement will no longer be eligible for a PGWP after graduating. Under these agreements, students attend a private college that has been licensed to deliver the curriculum associated with a public college. In simpler terms, if a public college has established licensing agreements with a private college, and a student is enrolled in the private college, they will not be eligible for a PGWP.
Speak to an IDP Canada counsellor to find out if your program affects your eligibility.
PGWP Duration and Validity
The Canadian government has announced changes to the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program. Three-year work permits for bachelor's, master's, and doctoral graduates are offered to public college graduates if their field of study is linked to labour market shortages.
There are also new language proficiency requirements for applicants starting November 1, 2024, when the government is expected to release further information on eligibility changes based on the level of study.
The length of your PGWP depends on the level and duration of your study program, as well as the expiry date of your passport, whichever comes first. For master’s degree programs, you can apply for a 3-year PGWP, even if your master’s program was less than 2 years, as long as your program was at least 8 months (or 900 hours for Quebec programs) and you meet all other eligibility requirements. This doesn’t apply to certificate or diploma programs.
For all other programs, if your program was at least 8 months (or 900 hours for Quebec credentials), but less than 2 years, the IRCC may give you a PGWP that’s valid for up to the same length as your study program. For example, if you completed a 9-month program, you may get a work permit for up to 9 months. If your program was 2 years or more, the IRCC may give you a PGWP that’s valid for 3 years.
There are eligibility guidelines for all other programs, so it is recommended that students speak to a trained IDP Canada counsellor for help, advice, or information on choosing the right program.
How PGWP Length Is Determined
The length of a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is determined by the duration of the eligible study program in Canada. According to the IRCC, a PGWP may be valid anywhere between 8 months and up to 3 years. Unless you have graduated from a master’s degree program, the length of your permit will depend on the length of the study program you completed in Canada. Find out more about validity here.
How to Apply for PGWP
Please note: As of June 21, 2024, students can no longer apply for a PGWP at a port of entry (airport, land or marine border) when entering Canada.
To apply for a PGWP after you graduate, students must submit their application within 180 days of receiving official notification that they have completed their program. The following conditions must also be met:
your study permit must be valid (not expired) at the time of submission
you must confirm that you attended and completed your program, with a degree or diploma, transcript, or official letter of completion of studies from your school.
The IRCC may request other documents once it receives your application.
Your application may be rejected if:
it does not adhere to IRCC’s eligibility criteria
required documents are missing
there are unexplained study gaps
you submit after 180 days
you fail to maintain legal status in Canada.
If your study permit expires before you apply for a PGWP, you can either restore your status as a student and apply for a PGWP or leave the country and apply from outside Canada.
IRCC Application Process
Here are the steps to take if you intend to apply for a PGWP. This step-by-step guide lists the application requirements you need to keep in mind: Before you apply for your PGWP:
Collect all necessary documents to meet IRCC documents
Check to see that your study program meets PGWP eligibility criteria
Prepare your application after reading the instruction
Fill out the application forms accurately and completely
Create an IRCC account to start the application
Begin by selecting the Post-Graduation Work Permit option
Upload all your documents along with the completed application forms
Pay the required application fees
Submit your application
After you apply for your PGWP
Check your application status and monitor the IRCC processing times
You may be asked to provide biometrics (fingerprints and photo)
You may have to undergo a medical exam
What Documents Are Required for PGWP?
Here is a list of the documents you will need to apply for a PGWP:
proof that you have completed your studies
proof that you were enrolled in full-time studies for a program that was 8 months or longer
official letter from your institution confirming you have successfully completed your program
your final academic transcript
proof that you graduated in an eligible field of study
proof of language results: CELPIP, IELTS, or PTE Core
copy of passport's bio-data page
recent passport-style photo that meets IRCC specifications
proof of upfront medical exam, if applicable
Check the official IRCC page for more information about documents.
PGWP Processing Time – How Long Does It Take?
How long does it take to get a PGWP? The answer to that question depends upon several factors such as whether you are applying using paper or online, how complete and accurate your application is, the possibility of seasonal surges that can lead to longer processing times, or even case processing centre workload.
You can check the average processing times through the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website, which updates on a weekly basis.
For more information on average processing times, check out this blog.
PGWP Extensions and Expiry in 2025
When it comes to PGWP extension in 2025, there is no general extension for the permit, but rather the possibility of extending one if your passport expires before the end of your eligible PGWP period. If your PGWP or study permit is about to expire, you can apply for an extension or to restore your status. The IRCC provides options for students to apply for a visitor record if they need more time in Canada while awaiting a permit. It is important for students to check the expiry dates of their permits and apply for extensions well in advance.
If you don’t change your status to a visitor and your study permit expires, you have up to 90 days to apply for a PGWP and restore your status as a student. You will have to apply online for your PGWP and pay the required permit fee, as well as a fee to restore your status as a student. Check the IRCC page for payment details and more information about eligibility.
Can I Apply for a Work Permit After PGWP Expires?
Post-graduation work permits (PGWP) are a one-time opportunity for international students. Those students must have graduated from a PGWP-eligible program at a designated learning institution. The length of your PGWP depends on the level and duration of your study program, as well as the expiry date of your passport, whichever comes first. If your passport expires before the full duration of your eligibility, you can apply to extend your PGWP, provided you apply on paper after you get a new passport.
There may be options to extend your stay in Canada by maintaining a different temporary resident status, or applying for permanent residence, but this is only information that only a certified immigration consultant can offer. IDP Education is not a registered migration consultant and does not provide immigration services or 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 here.
Working Rights Before and After PGWP Approval
Students need to make sure their study permits are valid (not expired) at the time they submit their PGWP application. Once you apply and, if you were eligible to work off campus during your studies, you can continue to work while the IRCC processes your PGWP application. You will receive a letter to confirm this, and the letter can be used as proof of your authorization to work in Canada.
Can I Work Before Applying for PGWP?
No, you cannot work before applying for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) if your study permit has expired and you have received confirmation of your program completion.
Can I Work After Applying for PGWP?
Yes, you can work after applying for a PGWP, provided you meet the IRCC's specified conditions such as having a valid study permit when you applied and having completed your program.
Can I Work While Waiting for PGWP?
Yes, you can work full-time while waiting for a decision on your PGWP if, at the time you submitted your application, you had a valid study permit, completed your program of study, were eligible to work off campus without a permit, and did not work off campus more than 24 hours a week during academic sessions.
Can I Work Full-Time After Graduation?
Yes, provided you have a work permit. If you're not eligible for a PGWP, you may still be able to work in Canada after you graduate, if you have a work permit.
PGWP Language Requirements for PGWP – What Tests Are Accepted?
As of November 1, 2024, most PGWP applicants are required to meet minimum levels of language ability to be eligible. To measure your English or French levels, the IRCC uses Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) for English, and Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadien (NCLC) for French.
The tests used to meet CLB/NCLC levels include CELPIP (General), IELTS (General Training) and PTE Core. Find out more about language levels here.
For more information on language requirements for PGWP, please visit this page.
Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) and PGWP
The IRCC may still refuse an applicant’s PGWP application even if they have graduated from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). Graduation from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) does not automatically make you eligible for a PGWP. Students need to check whether a program is listed on the DLI list as eligible for a PGWP.
Move Toward a PGWP with Confidence
Obtaining a PGWP is not a simple task. It is important that students do their research on whether they are eligible for a PGWP based on their program of study from a designated learning institution (DLI). It is also important to understand the eligibility criteria, all documents required for a complete application, the importance of maintaining legal status in Canada while applying for a PGWP, and why IRCC may refuse an application.
The first step is choosing the right program because it defines your academic and career path in Canada. Speaking to an IDP Canada counsellor can help students find the best program, make sense of application requirements, gather documents, find and apply for scholarships, renew their study permit, and lots more. If you have any questions or need assistance, book an appointment with us.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Many Times Can I Apply for PGWP?
You can only be issued a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) once in your lifetime.
Can I Extend My PGWP?
Post-graduation work permits are a one-time opportunity but can be extended if your passport expires before the full permit length.
Can I Study While on PGWP in Canada?
Yes, if you are eligible for a study permit. If you applied for a work permit after June 7, 2023, you are not eligible to study without a study permit. Find out more here.
Do I Need a Medical Exam for PGWP?
No, you will not need a medical exam for PGWP unless you plan to work in certain jobs in which public health must be protected. Find out more.
How Long Can I Stay in Canada After Graduation?
You can stay in Canada if you apply for a PGWP before your study permit expires.
Can I Get PGWP If I Studied Online?
No, the temporary policy changes from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada for PGWP eligibility and studying online ended on Aug. 31, 2024. To be eligible for a PGWP for the full duration, you must be in Canada for the complete duration of your studies from September 1, 2024, onwards. Time spent studying outside of Canada from September 1, 2024, onwards will be deducted from the length of your PGWP.
How Many Work Permits Are Expiring in 2025?
Find out more about work permits and Canada’s immigration plan for 2025-2027.
Can I travel outside Canada while waiting for PGWP approval?
Yes, you can leave Canada and return if your visa or electronic travel authorization (eTA) is valid. Your study or work permit is not a visa and doesn’t allow you to travel back to Canada.
What happens if my study permit expires before I apply for PGWP?
You have up to 180 days after you graduate to apply for a PGWP. If you don’t change your status to visitor and your study permit expires, you have up to 90 days after your study permit expires to apply for a PGWP and restore your status as a student.