By Radmila Lim, RCIC (R414423) — Lawseph & Associates Inc.

1) Core eligibility

• Completed a program at a PGWP-eligible DLI that’s ≥ 8 months (or 900 hours in Quebec).
• Maintained full-time status during each academic session (final term may be part-time).
• Apply within 180 days of written confirmation of completion (degree/diploma/official letter or transcript).
• Distance-learning limits respected (COVID measures ended Aug 31, 2024; new rules apply to later cohorts).
• If your program was a public-private “curriculum licensing” pathway, confirm specific provincial/date eligibility (most are not PGWP-eligible).
• You have not had a PGWP before (one-time only).

2) Program-based requirements (for cohorts with rules updated in late-2024+)

• Language test (in-person; < 2 years old) Upload if required
  • University bachelor’s/other university programs: CLB/NCLC 7 in all abilities.
  • College/polytechnic/non-university programs: CLB/NCLC 5 in all abilities.
• Eligible field of study (CIP) evidence Upload if required (applies when study-permit application was on/after Nov 1, 2024 and your program category specifies this).

3) Timing & status

• If your study permit will expire before you can apply, change status to visitor; if it already expired, apply within 90 days to restore student status (no work during restoration).
• Where to apply: inside Canada or from abroad (not at a port of entry).

4) Documents to upload

• Proof of completion: degree/diploma or official completion letter or final transcript (from a PGWP-eligible program).
• Proof of full-time enrollment (e.g., transcript).
• Passport (valid for the full PGWP length you seek—renew first if needed).
• Digital photo (IRCC specs) and fee receipts.
• Language test result if required — upload under “Client information” if no slot appears in the checklist.
• Eligible field of study (CIP) proof if required — upload under “Client information.”
• Upfront medical exam if you intend to work in designated occupations (healthcare, childcare, school settings, certain agri roles).
• Biometrics (most applicants 14–79; pay fee to receive the instruction letter).
• IMM 5710 — Application to Change Conditions / Extend Stay as a Worker (inside Canada PGWP form).
• IMM 5476 — Use of a Representative (optional; if using an RCIC/lawyer).
• IMM 5409 — Statutory Declaration of Common-Law Union (optional; if applicable).

5) Government fees

6) Processing times

7) Work authorization details

• PGWP type: Open work permit — no job offer required; can work for most employers (subject to medical/job-restriction rules).
• While you wait: You may work full-time while PGWP is processing if you applied before status expiry and you met off-campus work eligibility when you finished studies. Check IRCC “After you apply” conditions.

8) Permit length you can expect

• Master’s graduates: up to 3 years (as of Feb 15, 2024), even for programs < 2 years (min 8 months).
• Other programs ≥ 2 years: up to 3 years.
• Programs 8–<24 months: up to the same length as studies.
• Multiple programs can be combined for length.
• Length cannot exceed passport validity.

9) Who is not eligible (common pitfalls)

• You’ve already had a PGWP.
• More than 50% of your program delivered by distance learning (outside time-limited COVID exemptions).
• Studied ESL/FSL, general interest/self-improvement courses, or you were funded under programs that require returning home.

10) Quick apply steps (inside Canada)

• Sign in to your IRCC account → select PGWP → complete IMM 5710 per guide 5580 → upload docs.
• Pay $255 (work permit + open-holder) + $85 biometrics (if required).
• If the system checklist doesn’t ask for language / CIP field proof, upload under “Client information.”
• Give biometrics within 30 days of the instruction letter (if required).
• Monitor your account; respond promptly to any IRCC request.

RCIC Professional Fees (Typical Ranges)

Disclaimer: This checklist is for general guidance only and may not capture all edge-case rules for your cohort, province, or program start date. Always verify current IRCC instructions before filing.