Post Graduation Work Permit

Post Graduation Work Permit Overview

The Post Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) provides international students an avenue to work in Canada post-study. This permit is distinct because it doesn’t require a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).

PGWP Duration:

• Programs 8 months to 2 years: PGWP lasts for the program’s duration.
• Programs 2 years or more: A 3-year PGWP is granted.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Must be 18 or older.
• Completed a full-time study of at least eight months in Canada.
• Graduated from:
  • Public post-secondary institutions.
  • Certain private post-secondary institutions in Quebec.
  • Quebec private schools offering qualifying programs of 900 hours or more.
  • Private schools permitted to award specific provincial degrees.
• Apply within 180 days of program completion.

Special Consideration for Flight Instructors:

• Completed a Canadian flight training course and obtained a commercial pilot’s license.
• Working towards an instructor’s rating and have a job offer from a training center.

Validity: The PGWP length is tied to the study’s duration in Canada. Those with under eight months of study are ineligible. If multiple programs were completed, their combined length determines the PGWP’s duration.