Post-Graduation Work Permit in Canada Explained (2026)

The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is a key pathway for international students to gain Canadian work experience after completing their studies at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). In 2026, the PGWP remains a vital step toward permanent residency, offering flexibility to work for any employer in Canada. With recent updates to eligibility and application requirements, this guide provides a comprehensive overview of the PGWP, including eligibility, application process, duration, costs, and tips for success, tailored for 2026.

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What is the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)?

The PGWP is an open work permit allowing international graduates from eligible Canadian DLIs to work full-time for any employer, in any occupation, anywhere in Canada without needing a job offer. It’s a cornerstone of Canada’s immigration strategy, with over 305,900 study permits issued in 2025, many leading to PGWP applications. The work experience gained can qualify graduates for permanent residency through programs like Express Entry or the Canadian Experience Class.

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Key Features of the PGWP in 2026

• Duration: 8 months to 3 years, depending on the length of your study program.
• Open Work Permit: No restrictions on employer, location, or job type.
• Validity: Cannot exceed your passport’s expiry date.
• One-Time Opportunity: You can only apply for a PGWP once in your lifetime.
• Path to Permanent Residency: Work experience gained (at least 1 year in a skilled occupation) qualifies for programs like Express Entry.

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Eligibility for the PGWP in 2026

To qualify for a PGWP, you must meet the following criteria, updated as of November 1, 2024:

1. Completed an Eligible Program:
   • Study program at a PGWP-eligible DLI
   • Program duration: At least 8 months (or 900 hours for Quebec programs).
   • Leads to a degree, diploma, or certificate (certificate/diploma programs may have field-of-study requirements).
2. Maintained Full-Time Status:
   • Full-time enrollment during each semester (part-time allowed in the final semester or during authorized leave).
   • At least 50% of the program must be completed in Canada (in-person or hybrid; online courses from outside Canada reduce PGWP duration).
3. Language Proficiency:
   • For Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctoral Degrees: Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 7 or Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens (NCLC) 7 in English or French (equivalent to IELTS 6.0) in all 4 areas (reading, writing, listening, speaking).
   • For Other Programs (e.g., Diplomas, Certificates): CLB 5 or NCLC 5 (equivalent to IELTS 4.0 reading, 5.0 others).
   • Accepted tests: IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, CELPIP, TEF Canada. Results must be valid (less than 2 years old) at application.
4. Field of Study Requirements (if applicable):
   • For non-degree programs (e.g., certificates, diplomas), if you applied for a study permit on or after November 1, 2024, you must graduate from a program linked to occupations in long-term shortage (e.g., healthcare, construction, IT). Check the IRCC CIP code list for eligible fields.
   • Bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree graduates are exempt from field-of-study requirements.
   • If your study permit was applied for before November 1, 2024, or you’re a flight school graduate, field-of-study rules don’t apply.
5. Application Timing:
   • Apply within 180 days of receiving written confirmation of program completion (e.g., transcript, degree, or letter from your DLI).
   • Your study permit must have been valid at some point within this 180-day period.
   • If applying from within Canada, apply within 90 days of program completion or before your study permit expires, whichever comes first.
6. Special Cases:
   • Flight School Graduates: Must have a Canadian commercial pilot’s license or a job offer as a flight instructor from a DLI flight training center. No language or field-of-study requirements apply.
   • Distance Learning: If more than 50% of your program was online, you may be ineligible unless completed in Canada.
7. Other Requirements:
   • Be at least 19 years old (18 for some provinces).
   • Have a valid passport for the entire PGWP duration.
   • Not previously received a PGWP.

Note: If your study permit expires and you’re in Canada, you must restore your student status (additional $229 CAD fee) to apply for a PGWP.

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PGWP Duration in 2026

The length of your PGWP depends on your study program’s duration and your passport’s validity:

• Less than 8 months: Not eligible.
• 8 months to 2 years: PGWP matches the program length (e.g., 1-year program = 1-year PGWP).
• 2 years or more: Up to 3 years (e.g., 2-year master’s = 3-year PGWP).
• Master’s Programs (less than 2 years): Eligible for a 3-year PGWP if at least 8 months long.
• Quebec Programs: 900 hours minimum for eligibility; duration varies.
• Online/Outside Canada: Time spent studying outside Canada is deducted from PGWP duration (e.g., 6 months abroad in a 2-year program = 1.5-year PGWP).

Example: A 1-year diploma from Seneca Polytechnic yields a 1-year PGWP, while a 2-year master’s from UBC yields a 3-year PGWP, provided you meet all criteria.

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Application Process for the PGWP in 2026

Follow these steps to apply for a PGWP, based on Canada.ca guidelines:

1. Confirm Program Completion:
   • Obtain a Letter of Completion or transcript from your DLI confirming you’ve met all program requirements (not convocation date).
   • Contact your registrar’s office (e.g., University of Manitoba’s Aurora system for undergraduates, MSpace for graduate students).
2. Gather Required Documents:
   • Valid Passport: Must cover the full PGWP duration.
   • Letter of Completion/Transcript: From your DLI.
   • Language Test Results: CLB 7 (degrees) or CLB 5 (diplomas/certificates), less than 2 years old.
   • Study Permit: Must have been valid within 180 days of applying.
   • Optional: Proof of employment for spousal work permit applications.
   • If applying for restoration of status, include a receipt for the $229 CAD fee.
3. Create an IRCC Account:
   • Register at IRCC GCKey.
   • Complete the online eligibility questionnaire to generate a personalized document checklist.
4. Complete Form IMM 5710:
   • Download and fill out the Application to Change Conditions, Extend my Stay or Remain in Canada as a Worker (IMM 5710).
   • Ensure accuracy, as errors can lead to delays or rejection.
5. Pay Fees:
   • Work Permit Fee: $155 CAD.
   • Open Work Permit Holder Fee: $100 CAD.
   • Biometrics Fee (if required): $85 CAD.
   • Restoration of Status (if applicable): $229 CAD.
   • Total: $255–$569 CAD, payable online via credit card.
6. Submit Application:
   • Apply online via your IRCC account (preferred method).
   • Upload documents to the “Client Information” section for language test results or field-of-study proof, as the system may not prompt for these.
   • Alternatively, apply on paper if extending due to a new passport. Send to the Case Processing Centre in Edmonton.
   • Note: As of June 21, 2024, PGWP applications are no longer accepted at the Canada-U.S. border (“flagpoling”).
7. Track and Await Processing:
   • Processing time: 3–4 months (online) or longer for paper applications.
   • Check status via your IRCC account. The PGWP will be mailed to your provided address (2–6 weeks after approval).
8. Work While Waiting:
   • If you apply within 90 days of program completion with a valid study permit, you can work full-time under implied status until a decision is made.

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Costs of Applying for a PGWP

• Application Fees: $255 CAD ($155 work permit + $100 open work permit holder).
• Biometrics: $85 CAD (if not previously submitted).
• Restoration of Status: $229 CAD (if study permit expired).
• Language Tests: ~$200–$300 CAD (e.g., IELTS: $223 CAD, PTE: $180 USD).
• Medical Exam (if required, e.g., for healthcare jobs): $100–$500 CAD.
• Total: $255–$1,113 CAD, depending on circumstances.

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Key Changes for PGWP in 2026

• Language Requirements: Mandatory for all applicants as of November 1, 2024 (CLB 7 for degrees, CLB 5 for diplomas/certificates). No exemptions, even for native English/French speakers.
• Field of Study Requirements: Non-degree program graduates with study permits applied for on/after November 1, 2024, must study in fields tied to labor shortages (e.g., healthcare, IT).
• Study Permit Caps: 437,000 study permits in 2025, reduced by 10% from 2024, impacting PGWP applicants. Master’s/PhD students now require Provincial Attestation Letters (PALs).
• Spousal Work Permits: Limited to spouses of PGWP holders in management/professional occupations or shortage sectors (e.g., construction, healthcare).
• Program Eligibility: Students in curriculum licensing agreements (private colleges delivering public college programs) are ineligible as of May 15, 2024.

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Tips for Success

1. Apply Early: Submit within 90 days of program completion to maintain implied status and work rights.
2. Verify DLI Eligibility: Confirm your school and program are PGWP-eligible via Canada.ca.
3. Choose Affordable Language Tests: PTE ($180 USD) or CELPIP ($280 CAD) are cheaper than IELTS ($223 CAD).
4. Track Completion Date: Request your Letter of Completion as soon as grades are posted (not convocation).
5. Consult Immigration Experts: Use services like CanamGroup.com or Fragomen.com for complex cases.
6. Plan for Permanent Residency: Gain 1 year of skilled work experience (NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3) to qualify for Express Entry.
7. Avoid Flagpoling: Apply online to prevent delays or rejection.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Missing the 180-Day Window: Apply within 180 days of program completion to avoid ineligibility.
• Expired Study Permit: Restore status if expired, or apply as a visitor (no work allowed).
• Incomplete Documents: Ensure language test results and proof of completion are uploaded correctly.
• Ignoring Field-of-Study Rules: Check CIP codes for non-degree programs if your study permit was applied for post-November 1, 2024.
• Short Passport Validity: Renew your passport before applying to maximize PGWP duration.

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Conclusion

The Post-Graduation Work Permit in 2026 is a powerful tool for international students to gain Canadian work experience and pursue permanent residency. With durations up to 3 years, the PGWP offers flexibility but requires careful adherence to eligibility criteria, including language proficiency (CLB 7 or 5) and, for some, field-of-study requirements. By applying early, verifying DLI status, and preparing accurate documents, you can maximize your chances of success. Start your journey at Canada.ca and explore permanent residency options via Express Entry.

For more resources on studying and working in Canada, visit JobsMe.ca!