What a PGWP is
A post-graduation work permit is an open work permit for eligible graduates. A school being a designated learning institution does not mean all of its programs qualify. Verify the specific program before accepting an offer.
- Check the minimum program length and full-time study requirements, including any exceptions
- Apply within 180 days of receiving confirmation that you completed your program
- Check whether your study permit and current status meet IRCC requirements
Language and field-of-study requirements
IRCC generally requires language results in all four skills: at least CLB or NCLC 7 for bachelor's, master's, doctoral and other university programs, and 5 for other college, polytechnic or non-university programs. Graduates of eligible flight schools have separate rules.
- Bachelor's, master's and doctoral graduates do not have a field-of-study requirement
- Other programs generally need an eligible field of study if the study permit application was submitted on or after November 1, 2024
- IRCC froze the eligible fields list for 2026; check your program's six-digit classification (CIP) code if the requirement applies
Working while you wait for a decision
Applying for a PGWP does not automatically let you work. IRCC requires a valid study permit when you apply, a completed program, and prior eligibility to work off campus without exceeding the permitted hours.
- Keep your program completion letter and transcripts
- If your study permit has expired, check the separate rules and deadlines for restoring status
- Work authorization and permanent residence eligibility are assessed separately
Since January 1, 2026, applicants to degree-granting master's and doctoral programs at public designated learning institutions generally do not need a provincial or territorial attestation letter. Quebec has separate requirements. Since April 1, eligible post-secondary students do not need a separate co-op work permit for required, school-approved placements. Neither change determines PGWP eligibility.
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