A Post Graduate Work Permit allows individuals who have studied in Canada to remain in the country and work after completing their program or degree. Interested applicants have 180 days after receiving their final grades to apply to the program. The eligible duration of the permit will depend on the length of the applicant’s program of study.
Can Post Graduate Work Permit Be Extended?
The Post Graduate Work Permit Canada is a one time permit that cannot be renewed; however, in certain specific cases, it is possible to receive an extension:
- You were eligible for a longer Post Graduate Work Permit but did not receive the full-time period due to your passport expiring sooner. You can apply for a PGWP extension with your new passport for up to the term of your original eligibility.
- If you are currently in the Express Entry application pool for permanent residency, you may qualify for a bridging open work permit. This bridging permit allows you to remain in Canada and work legally until receiving your application decision.
PGWP Requirements
Before you apply for the PGWP, interested candidates must ensure that they have a valid study permit or visitor visa; OR have submitted an application to change their permit from student to visitor or extend a student permit AND have not yet received a response.
Eligible candidates must then meet the following criteria for the PGWP:
- Graduated from a study program at a designated public or private learning institution that was a minimum of 8 months and led to a recognized degree, diploma, or certificate
- Maintained full-time student status throughout your study except for your final semester, which may be part-time
Candidates will not receive a PGWP if they:
- Have previously received a PGWP
- Studied English or French as a second language, pursued general interest studies or self-improvement courses
- Participated in some Global Affairs Canada funded programs, received certain scholarships or participated in specific exchange programs
- Completed the majority of their program through distance learning
- Studied at a non-Canadian institution located in Canada
What GPA Do I Need for A Post Graduate Work Permit in Canada?
Unlike a student work permit in Canada, which requires a minimum GPA of 2.0, there is no minimum GPA requirement for the PGWP.
Duration of Work Permit After Study in Canada
The eligible term of a Post Graduate Work Permit Canada will depend on the study program’s length. A program lasting a minimum of 8 months may enable an applicant to receive a Post Graduate Work Permit of less than 1-year, while a 2-year degree program may qualify for a work permit of up to 3 years.
COVID-19 Exceptions to PGWP
Due to the ongoing global pandemic, the PGWP program has been updated. Students may now be eligible for a Post Graduate Work Permit if:
- You completed some or all your studies at a designated institution through distance learning either in Canada OR outside Canada
- If you continued to study outside of Canada, you must be eligible for all other PGWP conditions
- You had to pause your 2020 winter, spring, or summer semesters due to COVID-19
As of January 27, 2021, if your PGWP has expired or will expire soon, you could qualifiy for an open work permit of up to 18 months.
Elaar Immigration has helped many students live, study and work in Canada. Whether you are currently in a Canadian study program and are looking for permanent residency options or outside of Canada looking to immigrate, our dedicated immigration consultants can help you find your ideal pathway.
