Post-Graduation Work Permit
Graduates of eligible Canadian programs who want Canadian work experience after studying.
The Post-Graduation Work Permit is a Canadian work & skilled visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~CA$255 (CA$155 work permit + CA$100 open work permit holder fee)) and processing time (~3-4 months (inside Canada)), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Post-Graduation Work Permit is for
Graduates of eligible Canadian programs who want Canadian work experience after studying.
Canadian work experience on a PGWP is a key route to PR via the CEC or a PNP.
Post-Graduation Work Permit - eligibility criteria
- Graduated from an eligible DLI programme of 8+ months
- Apply within 180 days of getting final results
- Held valid study permit status during studies
- Meet field-of-study/language requirements (newer rules)
- Only one PGWP available in a lifetime
Post-Graduation Work Permit cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (Canada) is ~CA$255 (CA$155 work permit + CA$100 open work permit holder fee), with an indicative processing time of ~3-4 months (inside Canada). Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at IRCC (canada.ca).
| Type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Online from inside Canada (or outside in some cases) |
| Length of stay | From 8 months up to 3 years, based on the programme length |
| Work rights | Open work permit (work for almost any employer) |
| Study rights | Limited; mainly intended for work |
| Government fee | ~CA$255 (CA$155 work permit + CA$100 open work permit holder fee) |
| Processing time | ~3-4 months (inside Canada) |
| Route to PR | Canadian work experience on a PGWP is a key route to PR via the CEC or a PNP. |
Pathway & next steps
Canadian work experience on a PGWP is a key route to PR via the CEC or a PNP.
Many applicants also compare Study Permit · Study Permit, CEC · Canadian Experience Class, IMP Work Permit · LMIA-Exempt Work Permit (International Mobility Program). Run a free VisaChief check to see which Canadian route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Post-Graduation Work Permit pitfalls we fix
Post-Graduation Work Permit - frequently asked questions
How much does the Post-Graduation Work Permit cost?
The Post-Graduation Work Permit government fee is ~CA$255 (CA$155 work permit + CA$100 open work permit holder fee). Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at IRCC (canada.ca) before applying.
How long does the Post-Graduation Work Permit take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~3-4 months (inside Canada). Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Post-Graduation Work Permit lead to permanent residence?
Canadian work experience on a PGWP is a key route to PR via the CEC or a PNP.
Can I work on the Post-Graduation Work Permit?
Work rights: Open work permit (work for almost any employer).
Who can apply for the Post-Graduation Work Permit?
Graduates of eligible Canadian programs who want Canadian work experience after studying.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Canada government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- IRCC (canada.ca) - official Canada immigration authority