Understanding the PGWP requirements could help you to stay and work in Canada after graduation. The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) offers a valuable opportunity to gain Canadian work experience and lay the foundation for permanent residency. So, what are the PGWP requirements to ensure your eligibility?
What Is PGWP?
The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is an open work permit issued to eligible international graduates of Canadian designated learning institutions (DLIs). Once you are qualified for PGWP requirements, it allows you to work for any employer in Canada and is valid for up to three years, depending on different major and the length of your study program.
Why Understanding PGWP Requirements Matters
- Gain valuable Canadian work experience
- Qualify for Express Entry programs
- Improve your Express Entry Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score
- Open the door to permanent residency through the Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
Understanding the PGWP requirements opens an opportunity for you to stay and work in Canada.
PGWP Requirements – General Eligibility
You can apply for a PGWP if you meet the following PGWP requirements:
- You’ve completed a study program that lasted at least 8 months (or 900 hours for Quebec) at a PGWP-eligible Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
- You were enrolled as a full-time student in Canada throughout your program, except during your final semester, when part-time study is allowed.
- You submit your PGWP application within 180 days of receiving official confirmation that you finished your program (like a transcript or completion letter)
- Your study permit was still valid at some point during those 180 days between graduation and the time you applied.
PGWP requirements based on study program
If you graduated with a bachelor’s degree, master’s degree or doctoral degree
- Language requirement: You must prove your English or French language skills with a minimum level of Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) 7 in English or Niveaux de competence linguistique canadiens (NCLC) 7 in French in all 4 language areas.
- Field of study requirement: There are no field of study requirements for graduates with a bachelor’s degree, master’s degree or doctoral degree.
If you graduated from any other university program
- Language requirement: You must prove your English or French language skills with a minimum level of Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) 7 in English or Niveaux de competence linguistique canadiens (NCLC) 7 in French in all 4 language areas.
- Field of study requirement: If you submitted your study permit application on or after November 1, 2024, you must graduate in an eligible field of study.
If you graduated from any other college, polytechnic or non-university program
- Language requirement: You must prove your English or French language skills with a minimum level of Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) 5 in English or Niveaux de competence linguistique canadiens (NCLC) 5 in French in all 4 language areas.
- Field of study requirement: If you submitted your study permit application on or after November 1, 2024, you must graduate in an eligible field of study.
If you graduated from a flight school
If you graduated from a flight school, you must also meet one of the following requirements:
- You completed a flight training course at a DLI training centre and now have a Canadian commercial pilot’s license or
- You have or are getting an instructor’s rating and have a job offer as a flight instructor from a DLI flight training centre
There are no language or field of study requirements for graduates from a PGWP-eligible flight school.
Meeting the PGWP requirements is essential for international students who want to build a future in Canada
How to Apply for PGWP
- Understand general PGWP requirements
- Prepare documents: Transcript, letter of completion, valid passport, and study permit
- Apply online through your IRCC account
- Pay the PGWP fee (CAD $255)
- Wait for approval while potentially working under implied status
How We Can Help
At LUU IMM, we provide:
- PGWP eligibility checks before you apply
- Help with documentation and PGWP applications
- Immigration pathway planning for PR through CEC and PNP
Final Thoughts
Understanding and meeting the PGWP requirements is essential for international students who want to extend their stay and build a future in Canada. Start early, stay informed, and seek expert support to maximize your chances.
Contact us today to get consultation and customized advice on your post-graduation plans.