Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) - Agnihotri Immigration Consulting

Post-Graduation Work Permit Program

The Post-Graduation Work Permit Program (PGWPP) allows students who have completed their studies at eligible Canadian designated learning institutions (DLIs) to apply for an open work permit. This permit gives graduates the opportunity to gain valuable work experience in Canada. The work experience must be in skilled positions, specifically within the National Occupational Classification (NOC) skill types 0, or skill levels A or B. This Canadian work experience can help graduates qualify for permanent residency through the Canadian Experience Class under Express Entry.

Post-graduation work permit eligibility requirements

To apply for a post-graduation work permit, applicants must either currently hold valid temporary status in Canada or have left the country. In addition, they must have graduated from a recognized designated learning institution (DLI). Applicants should also provide proof that they meet the following criteria:

They have successfully completed a program of study at an eligible Canadian institution that lasted at least eight months and led to a degree, diploma, or certificate.
They have maintained full-time student status throughout their studies, except in certain cases, such as:
- Leave from studies
- Final academic session
They must provide an official transcript and a letter from the institution confirming they have met all requirements to complete their program of study.

Eligible programs for the PGWPP include those from:

Public post-secondary institutions like colleges, technical/trade schools, universities, or CEGEP in Quebec.
Private post-secondary institutions that follow the same regulations as public institutions (this applies to certain institutions in Quebec).
Private secondary or post-secondary institutions in Quebec offering programs that are at least 900 hours long, leading to a diplôme d’études professionnelles (DEP) or attestation de spécialisation professionnelle (ASP).
Canadian private schools authorized by provincial law to grant degrees, but only for programs that lead to a degree.

For those applying through Express Entry, the eligibility requirements typically include having a university or college degree, skilled work experience, and language proficiency in English and/or French.

Eligibility Criteria for Express Entry Applicants:

At least one year of continuous full-time (or equivalent part-time) skilled work experience within the past 10 years.
A minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level of seven in either English or French, as demonstrated through an approved language test.
A post-secondary education credential assessed against Canadian standards (through an Education Credential Assessment).

The easiest way to find out if you’re eligible is by using our free online assessment tool.

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