Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
Embassy required
- Processing time
- Approximately 80-180 days
- Fee
- CAD $255 (work permit $155 + open work permit holder $100)
- Validity
- 8 months to 3 years depending on program length
- Entry
- Single entry
Open work permit for international graduates of eligible Canadian DLIs. Must apply within 180 days of completing studies. Permit length matches study program length (8 months to 3 years). Master's degree graduates may receive 3-year permits regardless of program length. As of November 1, 2024, language proficiency proof required (CLB 7 for university graduates, CLB 5 for college). Field of study must align with occupations in long-term shortage.
Eligibility
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Purpose of visit
Must have completed a program of study at a PGWP-eligible Designated Learning Institution that was at least 8 months long. Must have maintained full-time status during studies.
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Visa history
Must have held a valid study permit at some point during the 180 days after graduation. Must apply within 180 days of receiving written confirmation of program completion.
Required history: Valid study permit during program
Documents you need
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Passport
Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 0
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Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.
Form name: IMM 5710 - Application to Change Conditions, Extend Stay or Remain in Canada as a Worker; Form url: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/study-canada/work/after-graduation/apply.html
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Academic transcript
Provide academic records for the course, qualification or training route.
Must be notarized: No; Must be translated: No
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Proof of enrollment
Provide proof of enrolment or admission from the school, university or training provider.
Must be current: No; Must be original: Yes
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Language test score
Accepted tests: IELTS, CELPIP (English); TEF Canada, TCF Canada (French); Minimum score: CLB 7 for university graduates, CLB 5 for college/polytechnic graduates
How to apply
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Document gathering
Obtain official letter of program completion or transcript from DLI, valid language test results (IELTS/CELPIP/TEF/TCF), and valid passport.
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Online application
Apply online through IRCC portal within 180 days of completing studies. Upload proof of completion, language test results, and identity documents.
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Fee payment
Pay CAD $255 (work permit processing fee of $155 plus open work permit holder fee of $100).
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Processing wait
Wait for processing. May be eligible for interim work authorization while application is pending. Check processing times on IRCC website.