A Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) allows international students who have completed their studies at a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada to stay and work in Canada temporarily after graduation. This opportunity enables graduates to gain practical work experience in their field of study.
Eligibility Criteria
Not all graduates automatically qualify for a PGWP. It’s essential to verify whether both the institution and the specific program are eligible.
Does Online Study Count Towards a PGWP?
Studies Outside Canada
Time spent studying online at a PGWP-eligible designated learning institution (DLI) from outside Canada between March 2020 and August 31, 2022, counts towards the length of a PGWP. This policy was updated on September 1, 2022. However, the following periods do not count towards the length of a PGWP:
Time spent studying outside Canada after December 31, 2023.
Time spent studying before applying for a study permit.
Studies in Canada
Until August 31, 2024, you must complete at least 50% of your program either online or in class in Canada. Starting September 1, 2024, you must complete at least 50% of your program in class in Canada.
PGWP Validity
From February 15, 2024, students graduating from master’s degree programs that are less than 2 years (minimum 8 months) may be eligible for a 3-year PGWP. The duration of a PGWP also depends on the length of the study program and the expiry date of the student’s passport.
- Master’s Degree Programs:
Programs less than 8 months (or 900 hours for Quebec credentials) do not qualify. Programs of at least 8 months may qualify graduates for a 3-year PGWP, even if the program is less than 2 years, provided all other criteria are met. This does not apply to certificate or diploma programs.
2. Other Programs:
Programs less than 8 months do not qualify.
Programs of at least 8 months but less than 2 years may qualify for a PGWP valid for the same length as the study program.
Programs of 2 years or more may qualify for a 3-year PGWP.
3. Multiple Programs:
Graduates of multiple programs can combine the lengths of each program for a single PGWP, provided each program is PGWP-eligible and at least 8 months long.
Passport Expiry and PGWP
Ensure your passport is valid for the entire duration you are eligible for the PGWP. If your passport expires before the PGWP’s full validity period, your permit will be issued up to the passport’s expiry date. You will be informed if you need to extend your PGWP to achieve full validity. Extending a PGWP usually requires applying on paper if instructed to do so.
By adhering to these guidelines, international graduates can successfully navigate the PGWP process and gain valuable work experience in Canada.
