Licensed Canadian immigration guidance

Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

A PGWP is an open work permit for international graduates of eligible Canadian programs, and is the most common bridge between a study permit and permanent residence through the Canadian Experience Class. Since November 2024, PGWP eligibility depends on having studied in a field IRCC considers aligned with labour market needs.

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  1. 01
    PGWP Eligibility Requirements

    Open this section for the practical detail, evidence and requirements that shape the pathway.

  2. 02
    PGWP Length by Program Duration

    Open this section for the practical detail, evidence and requirements that shape the pathway.

  3. 03
    Frequently Asked Questions

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  4. 04
    Related Pages

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A PGWP is an open work permit for international graduates of eligible Canadian programs, and is the most common bridge between a study permit and permanent residence through the Canadian Experience Class. Since November 2024, PGWP eligibility depends on having studied in a field IRCC considers aligned with labour market needs.

Key figures at a glance

Source sequence preserved
OpenWork for almost any employer
2024Field-of-study rule introduced
8mo–3 yrs Permit length range
12mo Work needed for CEC eligibility

PGWP Eligibility Requirements

Application timeline

Application timeline

Sequence and requirements

Official data
RequirementDetail
Program completionGraduated from an eligible program at a Designated Learning Institution
Eligible field of studyProgram must fall within a field IRCC has identified as aligned with labour market needs (e.g., healthcare, STEM, trades, agriculture, education) — a rule in effect since Nov 2024
Program lengthPermit length is generally tied to the length of the completed program of study, up to a 3-year maximum
Application windowMust be applied for within the required window after receiving final marks/confirmation of completion
Full-time studyProgram generally must have been studied full-time (with limited exceptions, such as a final part-time semester)
Presented in the supplied source sequenceReviewed 2026
International students studying together
Learn with a planA credible study plan connects school choice, funds, purpose and compliance.

PGWP Length by Program Duration

Program comparison

Program comparison

Pathway requirements

Official data
Program lengthTypical PGWP length
Less than 8 monthsNot eligible for a PGWP
8 months to under 2 yearsGenerally equal to the length of the study program
2 years or moreGenerally up to 3 years
Presented in the supplied source sequenceReviewed 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

Does every program qualify for a PGWP?

No — since November 2024, the program must fall within a field of study IRCC has identified as aligned with labour market needs. This should be confirmed before enrolling, not after graduating.

Can I work for any employer on a PGWP?

Yes — a PGWP is an open work permit, not tied to a specific employer, which is what makes it a common bridge into qualifying Canadian work experience.

How does a PGWP connect to permanent residence?

12 months of skilled work (NOC TEER 0–3) while on a PGWP typically builds eligibility for the Canadian Experience Class under Express Entry.

Students walking across a Canadian university campus
Find your placeThe right study choice balances the program, purpose, budget and longer-term pathway.

Related Pages

CTA: Book a Free Consultation to confirm your program's PGWP eligibility.

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