Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

On This Page
Watch: How to apply for a PGWP
Watch: How to complete the application form (IMM5710)
Important: Part-time studies and breaks
Applying for a spousal open work permit with a PGWP
After you apply
Frequently Asked Questions

A Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) allows you to work in Canada up to 3 years after you graduate.

Who can apply?

You may be eligible if:

  • You completed a degree at the U of A.
  • You apply within 180 days of receiving your completion letter.
  • You maintained a valid full-time student status throughout your program (some exceptions apply; consult an International Student Specialist)
  • You have not previously received a PGWP.

Part-Time Studies and Breaks

If you did not study full-time continuously in your program, even when you started full-time and later switched to part-time, or if you are considering a break from studies or enrolling as a part-time student in a regular academic term.

Contact International Student Specialist

Watch: HOW TO APPLY for A PGWP

You need a valid study permit to apply for a PGWP within Canada. Your Study Permit becomes invalid:

  • On the expiry date listed on the permit, OR
  • 90 days after your program completion date, whichever comes first.

Where Can You Apply From?

Inside Canada

Before applying, ensure your temporary resident status is valid:

If your study permit is expiring before receiving your completion letter and official transcripts, you can apply for a Study Permit extension to request an additional 90 days after your final term. Apply at least 6 months before the permit expiry date.

If it’s been 90 days since you received your completion letter, and you have not applied for PGWP and you have not received acceptance to a new program of study, you must apply for a visitor record to stay in Canada, apply for restoration of status, and PGWP together.

If your study permit expires, you must:

  • Apply to restore your status as a student to submit your PGWP application within Canada. Additional restoration fees apply. OR
  • Leave Canada and apply for the PGWP from abroad
  • Talk to an International Student Specialist for guidance

Outside Canada

You can also apply outside Canada if:

  • Your PGWP application is submitted within 180 days of receiving formal notification of program completion.
  • Your study permit was valid at any point during the 180 days before your application.

Learn more

Watch: HOW TO Complete Application FORM (IMM5710)

Read the step-by-step instructions on how to fill out the IMM5710 form

Supporting Documents

  • Valid General Language Test Results
    • Upload your test result under the client information.
  • Official Transcript
  • Completion Letter
    • Undergraduate students: Request your completion letter from your respective Faculty. Refer to your faculty's website for information about the process and expected timeline.
    • Graduate students: submit the “Completion Letter Request” form through the Student Service Catalog.
  • Passport-style Digital Photo
  • Passport
    • Upload a scanned copy of your passport that shows your birth date and country of origin, and any pages with stamps, visas, or markings.
  • Letter of Explanation and supporting documents as needed, especially if you have had terms where you had part-time registration or taken leave from study. Contact an International Student Specialist

After you apply

  • Monitor your IRCC account and email for updates.
  • You may be asked for additional information.
  • The processing times may change. Check the processing times regularly.
  • If you change your address while your application is in process, you MUST inform IRCC. Learn more

Working While Waiting for the PGWP Approval

Once you submit your PGWP application, you can immediately start working full-time while waiting if:

  1. Your study permit was valid when you submitted your PGWP application.
  2. You applied within 90 days of receiving your completion letter.
  3. Your study permit authorized work off-campus, and
  4. You complied with work limits during studies (24 hours per week off campus during regular academic terms).

If you submit your PGWP application on the same day you receive your completion letter, you can continue working without interruption.

If you’re unable to submit your application immediately, you must stop working until your application is submitted.

Once your application is submitted and you meet all eligibility requirements, you can resume working full-time.

Within about a week, you will receive a letter (IMM0127) from IRCC to show your employers that you are authorized to work until you receive your PGWP.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which language proficiency exams are accepted for PGWP application?

IRCC accepts the following language tests:

English

  • CELPIP-General test
  • IELTS General Training
  • PTE Core option

French

  • TEF Canada
  • TCF Canada
Your language test result must be less than 2 years old at the time of application. For detailed information, visit the IRCC website. 
Where do I upload my language test?
Upload your test result under the client information.
Do I need a job offer to apply for a PGWP?
No, you are not required to have a job offer unless your spouse is applying for an open work permit extension at the same time as your PGWP application.
Do I need to meet a “field of study” requirement to qualify for the PGWP?

No. If you are in a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD program, the field of study requirement does not apply.

I’m in a one-year Master’s program. Am I eligible for a 3-year PGWP?

Yes! As of February 15, 2024, graduates of Master’s programs under 2 years are eligible for a 3-year PGWP, provided all other eligibility criteria are met.

My study permit expires before I’ll receive my Program Completion Letter. Can I apply for the PGWP in advance?

No, you must wait until you receive your Program Completion Letter, which is issued only after completing all program requirements.

If your study permit expires before you receive this letter, you’ll need to apply to extend your study permit in advance.

It’s recommended to submit your extension application 6 months before your permit’s expiry date.

My study permit remains valid after I complete my program. Do I need to wait for my convocation ceremony to apply for the PGWP?

No, you don’t need to wait for your convocation. Once you’ve met your program’s completion requirements and received your completion letter, you can apply for the PGWP.

If you have any questions after reviewing the information, watching the videos, and attending the application support sessions, we are here to help!

Talk to an International Student Specialist

These steps provide general information that was accurate at the time of publication. For any advice on your specific situation, consult the International Student Specialist. For the most up-to-date immigration information, visit the official Canada.ca website.