Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) – Canada Immigration Guide
The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is a golden opportunity for international graduates in Canada to gain open, full-time Canadian work experience after completing their studies—and it can pave the way to permanent residency.
What is the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)?
The PGWP is an open work permit issued to eligible international students who have completed a program at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada. It allows graduates to work for any employer in any province without needing a job offer or LMIA.
The duration of the PGWP depends on the length of the completed program, up to a maximum of 3 years.
Eligibility Criteria
- Completed a program of at least 8 months at a designated learning institution (DLI)
- Program must lead to a degree, diploma, or certificate
- Maintained full-time student status throughout (with some exceptions)
- Application must be submitted within 180 days of receiving written confirmation of graduation
- Must have a valid study permit at the time of application or have held one previously
How to Apply for a PGWP
- Receive official confirmation (e.g. transcript, completion letter) from your DLI
- Gather all required documents (passport, study permit, transcript, etc.)
- Apply online via the IRCC website or portal within 180 days of program completion
- Provide biometrics (if required)
- Wait for decision and begin working immediately if eligible under implied status
Processing Times (2025 Estimates)
| Application Location | Estimated Time |
|---|---|
| Inside Canada (online) | 2 – 4 months |
| Outside Canada (online) | Varies by country, 3 – 6 months |
Government Fees (IRCC)
| Fee Type | Cost (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Work Permit Fee | $155 |
| Open Work Permit Holder Fee | $100 |
| Total Government Fees | $255 |
Immigration Consultant Agency Fees (2025 Estimate)
| Service | Typical Fee Range (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Full PGWP Application Preparation | $500 – $1,200 |
| Document Review Only | $250 – $450 |
Example – Lawseph & Associates Inc.: Our clients typically pay a flat $750–$900 for end-to-end PGWP services, including form preparation, document checklist, submission, and legal letter if needed.
Why Choose Lawseph & Associates Inc. (RCIC)
- Over two decades of practice (since 2001): Deep experience with spousal files, inland/outland strategies, and work-permit pairing.
- Refusal-risk control: Pre-submission audits, accuracy checks, and evidence curation tailored to IRCC requirements.
- Personalized guidance: One team manages your case end-to-end — fewer handoffs, fewer errors.
- Transparent communication: Downtown Toronto office with clear timelines and proactive updates.
Immigration is life-changing — don’t leave it to chance. With Lawseph & Associates Inc., your application is
professionally prepared, fully compliant, and positioned for success. Begin now to protect your
timeline and reduce avoidable risks.
Benefits of the PGWP
- Work for any employer in any Canadian province
- Gain Canadian work experience that counts toward permanent residency eligibility (Express Entry/CEC)
- Can apply with or without a job offer
- Spouse may qualify for an open work permit
- Valid for up to 3 years depending on study length
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying too late (after the 180-day window closes)
- Missing documents like final transcripts or completion letters
- Applying from outside Canada without confirming eligibility
- Assuming all programs or schools qualify (check DLI list and program length)
