The Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) allows international students who have completed a qualifying program at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada to stay and work full-time for up to 3 years after graduation. This open work permit is one of the most direct pathways to gaining Canadian work experience and transitioning to permanent residency (PR).
You may be eligible for a PGWP if you:
Distance or part-time programs, and language-based programs, typically don’t qualify.
Multiple programs: Combined programs may qualify for up to 3 years, if both are eligible
Get official proof of graduation (transcript or letter)
Apply online through IRCC within 180 days
Submit biometrics (if required
Wait for approval and begin working — you may start working immediately if you apply before your study permit expires and meet all conditio
Many PGWP holders move on to permanent residency through:
Employer-based immigration streams
We support international graduates by:
