PGWP eligibility is determined primarily by the institution you attended and the program you completed — not by the job you plan to take. Many graduates are surprised to find they don't qualify because their institution or program didn't meet the requirements, even if they received a legitimate Canadian degree.
Institution Requirements
- • Must have studied at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) — check IRCC's DLI list
- • Private career colleges in most provinces are NOT eligible for PGWP, even if DLI-designated for study permit purposes
- • Exceptions: private DLIs in Quebec and some Atlantic provinces — check institution-specific eligibility
- • Distance learning programs: after COVID accommodations expired, online-only study from outside Canada does not count toward PGWP eligibility (at least 50% in-class or in-Canada requirement)
Program Requirements
- • Program must be at least 8 months long
- • Must lead to a degree, diploma, or certificate from the institution
- • Flight training: specific programs only — check IRCC's approved list
- • Exchange programs: only the portion at the Canadian DLI counts; study abroad portions don't
- • Multiple programs: if you completed multiple programs, PGWP length is calculated based on the combined time, up to 3 years
Study Permit Requirements at Time of Application
- • Must apply for PGWP within 180 days of receiving confirmation of program completion (usually the transcript or official letter)
- • Must have had valid study permit when completing the program — not expired, not restored
- • Cannot have previously held a PGWP — it's a once-in-a-lifetime permit
Quick Facts
- LMIA required:No
- Max duration:3 years
- Application window:180 days from completion
- Once in a lifetime:Yes
- Open work permit:Yes
- PR pathway:CEC / PNP
Related Services
A consultation reviews PGWP eligibility, duration planning for CEC, and which PR pathway is realistic given your program length and NOC.
Schedule your consultationA consultation is required for case-specific advice.