Post Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Canada
The Post Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) allows international students who graduate from eligible Canadian institutions to work in Canada after completing their studies. The program gives graduates valuable Canadian work experience, which can often help them qualify for permanent residence immigration pathways.
Many international students choose Canada not only for its education system but also for the opportunity to gain work experience through the Post Graduation Work Permit Program.
Halani Immigration Services Inc. provides professional guidance for international graduates applying for Post Graduation Work Permits in Canada. Our services are led by Shoukat Qumruddin Halani, RCIC-IRB, a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant licensed by the CICC under License No. R711322.
The PGWP-to-PR pathway works. Of the 436,000 PGWP holders who became Canadian permanent residents since 2015, 95% landed via Economic programs — 53% through Express Entry's Canadian Experience Class and 28% through a Provincial Nominee Program. See our live temporary→PR transition dashboard for the year-by-year breakdown and which PR programs absorb PGWP holders.
What Is a Post Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
The Post Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is an open work permit issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) that allows international graduates to work for almost any employer in Canada. Unlike employer-specific work permits, the PGWP is an open work permit — graduates are not restricted to a specific employer or job.
Graduates may work in:
- Technology & Engineering
- Business & Finance
- Healthcare
- Hospitality & Marketing
- Skilled Trades
Key benefits:
- Open work permit — any employer
- Supports Express Entry pathway
- Supports Provincial Nominee Programs
- Valuable Canadian work experience
- Pathway toward permanent residence
PGWP Duration
The length of a Post Graduation Work Permit depends on the duration of the academic program completed in Canada. The PGWP is generally issued once in a lifetime, making it an important opportunity for international graduates.
Programs of 8 months to less than 2 years
Work permit may be issued for the same length as the study program.
Programs of 2 years or more
Graduates may receive a work permit valid for up to 3 years.
Who Can Apply for a PGWP
International students may be eligible for a Post Graduation Work Permit if they meet IRCC eligibility requirements. Each application is assessed individually by IRCC.
- Completed a program at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
- Maintained full-time student status during studies
- Completed a program that meets PGWP eligibility requirements
- Apply within the permitted time after receiving confirmation of program completion
Language Requirement for PGWP
As of the current IRCC rules, most PGWP applicants must provide proof of English or French language ability when they apply. This applies to applications submitted on or after November 1, 2024, unless an exception applies.
University graduates (bachelor's, master's, doctoral)
Minimum CLB 7 in English or NCLC 7 in French in all 4 language abilities.
College, polytechnic & other graduates
Minimum CLB 5 in English or NCLC 5 in French in all 4 language abilities.
Important exceptions — you generally do NOT need to provide language proof if:
- You submitted your PGWP application before November 1, 2024
- You graduated from a PGWP-eligible flight school
Field of Study Requirement
Depending on your level of study and when your study permit was submitted, you may also need to meet a field of study requirement to qualify for a PGWP.
IRCC states that bachelor's, master's, and doctoral graduates generally do not need to meet the field of study requirement, while certain other graduates may need to show that their program falls within an eligible field of study.
IRCC also issued an update confirming that students who applied for a study permit before June 25, 2025 may still remain eligible if their field of study was on the list when they applied.
Why Choose Halani Immigration Services Inc.
Regulated Representation
Your case is handled by Shoukat Qumruddin Halani, RCIC-IRB, licensed by the CICC.
Strategic Preparation
Applications are prepared carefully to ensure eligibility requirements and documentation are clearly presented.
Guidance for Graduates
We assist international graduates in understanding their options after completing studies in Canada.
Global Client Service
We assist international students from many countries studying at Canadian institutions.
Transparent Practice
Our services follow professional standards established by the CICC Code of Professional Conduct.
Countries & Cities We Commonly Serve
Pakistan
- Karachi
- Lahore
- Islamabad
- Rawalpindi
- Faisalabad
- Multan
India
- Mumbai
- Delhi
- Chandigarh
- Bangalore
- Hyderabad
- Ahmedabad
UAE
- Dubai
- Abu Dhabi
- Sharjah
Saudi Arabia
- Riyadh
- Jeddah
- Dammam
Qatar
- Doha
Canada
- Toronto
- Mississauga
- Brampton
- Scarborough
- Markham
- Milton
Our Process
Step 01 – Eligibility Assessment
We review the graduate's academic program, language requirement, and PGWP eligibility requirements.
Step 02 – Application Strategy
We ensure the application meets PGWP program requirements.
Step 03 – Documentation Guidance
We assist applicants in preparing required documentation, including language results where applicable.
Step 04 – Application Preparation
Applications are structured carefully and prepared professionally.
Step 05 – Submission Support
We guide graduates through the submission process and next steps.
Related Temporary Resident Visa Services
Start Your PGWP Application
If you have completed your studies in Canada and wish to gain Canadian work experience, professional guidance can help ensure your application is properly prepared.
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