Learn how to stay, work, and transition to permanent residency in Canada after graduation.
As an international student, Canada offers you exciting opportunities to stay, gain valuable work experience, and even transition to permanent residency after graduation. Whether you’re looking to work temporarily through a post-graduation work permit (PGWP) or apply for permanent residence, there are many pathways designed for international graduates like you.
Graduates from certain designated learning institutions (DLIs) can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which allows you to work in Canada after completing your studies. Even if you’re not eligible for a PGWP, other work permit options may still apply — and the work experience you gain could help you qualify for permanent residence later.
As of June 21, 2024, you can no longer apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) at a port of entry (such as an airport, land, or marine border). All applications must now be submitted online from within Canada.
The PGWP allows graduates from eligible DLIs to gain Canadian work experience after their studies. However, graduating from a DLI doesn’t automatically make you eligible — you must verify if your institution and program qualify.
The validity of your PGWP depends on your program length and passport expiry date:
Remember to ensure your passport is valid for the full length of time you’re eligible for a PGWP. If it expires sooner, you can later extend your permit after renewing your passport.
Let our licensed immigration consultants help you navigate the right pathway to stay and work in Canada after graduation.
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Yes. Many students transition to PR through programs like the Canadian Experience Class, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), or other streams for skilled workers.
It’s an open work permit allowing you to work for any employer in Canada after completing an eligible program at a DLI.
Processing times vary, but most applications are processed within 2–5 months depending on your location and completeness of your application.
Yes, if you were a full-time student and applied for a PGWP before your study permit expired, you can work full-time while waiting for a decision.
Yes. Spouses or common-law partners of PGWP holders may qualify for an open work permit.
Yes. Programs like the Canadian Experience Class or Express Entry allow PR applications without a job offer if you meet other criteria.
No. Only certain skilled work (NOC 0, 1, 2, or 3) gained through valid work authorization qualifies for PR programs.
You may apply for a work permit extension or a bridging open work permit (BOWP) while your PR application is in process.
No. You can only receive a PGWP once in your lifetime, regardless of how many programs you complete.
Partially. You must have completed at least 50% of your studies in Canada for eligibility, though exceptions applied during COVID-19 periods.
Yes, but you must have valid status to return to Canada and re-enter once your PGWP is approved.
The government fee is typically CAD $255, which includes the work permit and open work authorization fee.
No. The PGWP is an open work permit, so you don’t need a job offer to apply or to start working.
If your DLI loses designation before graduation, your PGWP eligibility may be affected. Consult an immigration professional for guidance.
We provide personalized consultation to guide you through PGWP applications, PR pathways, and all steps to successfully remain in Canada after your studies.
Our experienced team of immigration professionals, along with highly knowledgeable staff, is here to assist you with Business Immigration, Express Entry & PR Applications, Family & Spousal Sponsorship, Work & Study Permits, Visitor & Super Visas, Canadian Citizenship & Status Extensions.