Am I Eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)?
You may qualify for a PGWP if you graduated from a PGWP-eligible program at a designated learning institution that lasted at least 8 months, studied full-time (your final semester can be part-time), and apply within 180 days of getting your final marks. Since November 1, 2024, most applicants also need language test results, and some college graduates must meet a field of study requirement. The fee is $255, and you can only get one PGWP.
The main requirements
- Eligible school and program: a PGWP-eligible program at a designated learning institution (DLI) that is credit-earning and leads to a degree, diploma or certificate.
- At least 8 months long.
- Full-time in every semester, except the final one, which can be part-time.
- Apply within 180 days of your school issuing your final marks. Your study permit must have been valid at some point during those 180 days.
- Language results (for applications from November 1, 2024): an approved test less than 2 years old, unless you graduated from an eligible flight school. The minimum score depends on your program.
- Field of study (if it applies to you): see below.
- You haven't had a PGWP before.
Which language tests count?
| Language | Approved tests |
|---|---|
| English | CELPIP-General, IELTS General Training, PTE Core |
| French | TEF Canada, TCF Canada |
Tests must be taken in person, cover reading, writing, listening and speaking, and be less than 2 years old when you apply. Check IRCC's eligibility page for the score your program requires.
Do I need to meet the field of study requirement?
Only some graduates do. You're exempt if any of these apply:
- You graduated with a bachelor's, master's or doctoral degree.
- You applied for your study permit before November 1, 2024.
- You graduated from a PGWP-eligible flight school.
Otherwise, your program's 6-digit CIP code must be on IRCC's eligible list, either when you applied for your study permit or when you apply for your PGWP. The list is frozen for 2026: IRCC won't add or remove fields this year. Your school can tell you your CIP code.
How long will my PGWP be?
| Length of your program | PGWP length |
|---|---|
| Under 8 months | Not eligible |
| 8 months to under 2 years | Up to the length of your program |
| 2 years or more | Up to 3 years |
Your PGWP also can't run past your passport's expiry date, so check your passport before applying.
Who isn't eligible?
- Students in English or French as a second language, or general interest courses.
- Students who completed most of their program through distance learning.
- Students whose program or school wasn't PGWP-eligible.
- Students funded by Global Affairs Canada or a scholarship that requires them to return home.
- Anyone whose study permit expired more than 180 days before applying.
- Anyone who's already had a PGWP.
What documents do I need?
- Proof you completed your program: your degree, diploma or certificate, an official letter, or an official transcript.
- Proof of full-time study: an official transcript.
- Language test results, unless exempt.
- Proof of field of study, if it applies to you.
PGWP and permanent residence
A PGWP lets you gain Canadian work experience, which can help you qualify for the Canadian Experience Class or a provincial program. From November 3, 2026, experience in a high-wage occupation can also earn extra Express Entry points. See how the new points work.
Common PGWP mistakes we see
- Missing the 180-day window. It starts when your school issues final marks, not at convocation.
- An expired or missing language test. Book your test early.
- A short passport. Your PGWP can be cut short if your passport expires sooner.
- Assuming every program qualifies. Check your school's and program's PGWP eligibility before you enrol.
Every situation is different. GLC Immigration Consulting can help in three ways:
- Consultation: a one-on-one session with Osaro Ezomo, RCIC, to review your situation and your options.
- Full representation: we prepare and submit your application and act as your authorized representative with IRCC, from start to finish.
- Pre-submission review: you prepare your own application, and we review it for errors, gaps and risks before you submit.
To request full representation or a pre-submission review, or for any other question, email us at hello@gradlifecanada.ca.
Frequently asked questions
How long do I have to apply for a PGWP after graduating?
180 days from the date your school issues your final marks. Your study permit must have been valid at some point during those 180 days.
Do I need a language test for a PGWP?
Yes, for applications made on or after November 1, 2024, unless you graduated from a PGWP-eligible flight school. Results must be less than 2 years old.
Do master's graduates need to meet the field of study requirement?
No. Graduates with a bachelor's, master's or doctoral degree are exempt.
How much does a PGWP cost?
The PGWP fee is $255.
Can I get a second PGWP?
No. You're not eligible if you've already received a post-graduation work permit.
Fact-checked: Based on IRCC's Post-graduation work permit page, Guide 5580, Field of study requirement and Get the right documents pages. Verified November 2, 2026.
Disclaimer: This article is general information only and is not legal or immigration advice. Immigration rules change often. For advice on your situation, speak with a licensed immigration professional.
Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant, licensed by the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC), licence #R711785. Osaro is the principal consultant at GLC Immigration Consulting in Calgary, Alberta, helping clients with Express Entry, provincial nomination, work and study permits and family sponsorship.
Book a consultation · hello@gradlifecanada.ca