The Complete Guide to the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

The Complete Guide to the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

Canada Immigration Guide

The Complete Guide to the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

Everything you need to know about the New 2026 Rules, Language Requirements, and Eligibility.

Updated: 2026 Edition Processing Time: ~90 Days

The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is the "Golden Ticket" for international students. It is an open work permit that allows you to work for any employer in Canada, which is often the essential bridge to Permanent Residency (PR).

However, the rules have changed drastically since November 2024. At Smile Foreign Education, we see many students get rejected because they follow outdated advice. This detailed guide covers the new reality of the PGWP.

🚨 The "New Rules" (Effective Nov 2024 & 2026)

If you submitted your study permit application on or after November 1, 2024, you must meet these stricter requirements:

🎓 University Degree Graduates

(Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD)

  • Field of Study: All fields are eligible. You are EXEMPT from the shortage list.
  • Language Score: Must prove CLB 7 (IELTS General 6.0 in all bands).

🏫 College Graduates

(Diploma, Certificate)

  • Field of Study: Your program MUST be in an "Eligible Field" (Agriculture, Healthcare, STEM, Trade, Transport).
  • Language Score: Must prove CLB 5 (IELTS General 5.0 in all bands; 4.0 Reading).

*Note: IRCC has confirmed that the list of Eligible Fields remains frozen (unchanged) for 2026.

Basic Eligibility Checklist

Before you apply, ensure you tick all these boxes. Missing even one can lead to a refusal.

  • ✔
    Full-Time Student Status: You must have studied full-time in every semester of your program. The only exception is your final semester, which can be part-time.
  • ✔
    Program Length: Your program must be at least 8 months long. (Programs under 8 months are not eligible).
  • ✔
    Transcripts & Completion Letter: You do not need the physical degree parchment. You need the Official Final Transcript and a Letter of Completion from your registrar confirming you have met all requirements.
  • ✔
    The 180-Day Rule: You have exactly 180 days from the date your final marks are issued (not the convocation date!) to apply.

Can I Work While Waiting? (Maintained Status)

This is the most common question we get. The answer is YES, but only if you meet specific conditions:

You can work full-time immediately after submitting your PGWP application if:

  1. You held a valid study permit at the time you submitted the application.
  2. You have completed your study program.
  3. You were eligible to work off-campus while you were a student.
  4. You did not work more than the allowed hours (20 or 24 hours/week) during your studies.

Warning: If you let your study permit expire before applying for the PGWP, you must stop working immediately and pay extra fees to restore your status. Do not let this happen!

How Long Will My Permit Be?

Program LengthPGWP Duration
Less than 8 monthsNot Eligible
8 months to less than 2 yearsValid for the same length as your program (e.g., 1 year study = 1 year permit).
2 years or more3 Years
Master's Degree (Even if < 2 years)3 Years (Special Exception)

🚫 Important: "Flagpoling" is Banned

As of June 21, 2024, you can no longer apply for a PGWP at the US-Canada border (Flagpoling). You must apply online from within Canada. Do not drive to the border expecting to get your permit instantly; you will be turned away.

Don't Risk a Refusal.

One small mistake—like missing a gap in your studies or uploading the wrong transcript—can lead to a rejection. Let Smile Foreign Education handle your PGWP application for guaranteed peace of mind.

Smile Foreign Education

201 ABC II Complex, HL Commerce College Road
Navrangpura, Ahmedabad, Gujarat