Post-Graduate Work Permit
Get professional guidance for your Canadian Post-Graduate Work Permit application, from eligibility assessment and document preparation to application submission and follow-up.
Post-Graduate Work Permit in Canada
The Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) lets eligible international graduates gain Canadian work experience after completing an eligible program at a PGWP-eligible DLI. Rules tightened in late 2024 and remain important in 2026.
Language (mandatory for applications on/after November 1, 2024): bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degree graduates generally need CLB 7 (or NCLC 7) in all four abilities; graduates of other university programs and non-degree/college programs generally need CLB 5 (or NCLC 5).
Field of study: field-of-study restrictions apply to many non-degree / college programs. Graduates of bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degree programs are generally exempt. For 2026, IRCC has frozen the eligible field-of-study list (no fields added or removed under the current policy).
We assess your program, language proof and timing so your PGWP filing matches current IRCC rules.
Language (mandatory for applications on/after November 1, 2024): bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degree graduates generally need CLB 7 (or NCLC 7) in all four abilities; graduates of other university programs and non-degree/college programs generally need CLB 5 (or NCLC 5).
Field of study: field-of-study restrictions apply to many non-degree / college programs. Graduates of bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degree programs are generally exempt. For 2026, IRCC has frozen the eligible field-of-study list (no fields added or removed under the current policy).
We assess your program, language proof and timing so your PGWP filing matches current IRCC rules.
Who May Be Eligible for a PGWP?
| Factor | Typical Requirement |
|---|---|
| Eligible Institution | Graduation from a PGWP-eligible designated learning institution or eligible program |
| Study Program | Completion of an eligible program that meets the applicable duration and program requirements |
| Language Requirements | Mandatory since Nov 1, 2024: typically CLB 7 for bachelor’s/master’s/doctoral graduates; CLB 5 for many non-degree/college graduates (all four abilities). |
| Field of Study | Applies mainly to non-degree/college programs. Degree (bachelor’s/master’s/doctoral) graduates are generally exempt. Eligible field list is frozen for 2026. |
| Application Requirements | Valid documents and compliance with applicable immigration requirements |
What Is Included in Our Service
- ✓ PGWP eligibility assessment
- ✓ Review of study and graduation details
- ✓ Document checklist and preparation guidance
- ✓ Application form review
- ✓ Supporting document preparation
- ✓ Application submission guidance
- ✓ Follow-up and additional document guidance where required
Our Process
01
Eligibility Assessment
We review your study program, institution, graduation details and other relevant factors.
02
Document Review
We identify the documents required for your application and review them for completeness.
03
Application Preparation
We help prepare the application and supporting information accurately.
04
Application Submission
We guide you through submitting the completed PGWP application.
05
Follow-Up Support
We assist with application updates, additional document requests and next steps where applicable.
Documents You May Need
- ✓ Valid passport
- ✓ Study permit
- ✓ Graduation letter or official completion confirmation
- ✓ Final transcript
- ✓ Language test results meeting current PGWP thresholds (generally CLB 7 or CLB 5 depending on credential)
- ✓ Proof of program completion
- ✓ Academic documents
- ✓ Other supporting documents requested for your application
FAQS
Post-Graduate Work Permit Questions
Do field-of-study rules apply to my PGWP?
+Field-of-study limits mainly affect non-degree and college programs. Graduates of bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degree programs are generally exempt. For 2026, IRCC has frozen the eligible field-of-study list, so planning around the current list matters.
What is a Post-Graduate Work Permit?
+A Post-Graduate Work Permit allows eligible international graduates to gain Canadian work experience after completing an eligible program of study.
Does graduating from a Canadian college or university automatically qualify me for a PGWP?
+No. Graduation from a Canadian institution does not automatically guarantee PGWP eligibility. The institution, program, study duration and other applicable requirements must be considered.
Do I need a language test for a PGWP?
+Yes for most applicants who apply on or after November 1, 2024. Degree graduates (bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral) generally need CLB 7 / NCLC 7 in all four abilities. Many non-degree and college graduates need CLB 5 / NCLC 5. “Where required” is no longer accurate for new filings.
How long can a PGWP be valid?
+The validity period depends on factors such as the eligible study program, its duration and the applicants passport validity.
Can PGWP experience help with permanent residence?
+Canadian work experience gained after graduation may help an eligible applicant qualify for certain permanent residence pathways, depending on the applicable program requirements.