Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) lets eligible international graduates of Canadian programs gain Canadian work experience temporarily without a job offer or LMIA. Permit length generally reflects program length, subject to policy limits.
Graduates usually need valid status at application and must complete a program at a PGWP-eligible DLI within IRCC rules. Applications must be filed within the deadline after program completion. The PGWP is typically an open permit (subject to exceptions) allowing work for any employer full- or part-time.
Cohen Visa advises on PGWP eligibility, timing, documentation, and compliance for a smooth transition from study to work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about the Post-Graduation Work Permit
Generally, you must have completed a full-time program of at least eight months at an eligible Canadian DLI, received a formal credential, and maintained valid status. Programs and institutions have PGWP eligibility rules; not every graduate or credential qualifies.
Duration is tied to your program length under current IRCC policy, subject to a statutory maximum (commonly up to three years for longer programs). Very short programs yield shorter permits. Border and application details can affect the result; Cohen Visa confirms strategy against current instructions.
You must apply within the deadline IRCC sets from completion of your program—either while your study permit is still valid or, where permitted, as a visitor after certain steps. Missing the window can mean losing PGWP eligibility.
No. The PGWP is an open work permit (unless restricted by policy exceptions), so you do not need a job offer or LMIA to obtain it, subject to eligibility and any conditions printed on the permit.
Canadian skilled work experience during a valid PGWP may support Express Entry or other economic pathways, depending on occupation, hours, and program rules. We advise on how your permit and job fit long-term plans.
We review program and institutional eligibility, graduation timing, application deadlines, documentation, and travel or status issues to support a smooth transition from study to work.