Answering 11 FAQs about Canada’s Post-Graduation Work Permit

In light of proposed changes to the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program announced last month, many current and prospective international students may be looking for more information.

For example, as outlined by notes from the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) Deputy Minister Transition Binder 2024, these changes would work to better align the “issuance of PGWPs [with Canada’s] labour market needs.”

This would result in fewer permits being issued to graduates from some post-secondary programs while “students entering occupations in shortage” would have better access to PGWPs.

To help international students better understand the PGWP, CIC News has compiled a list of frequently asked questions.

What is a PGWP?
A PGWP is an open work permit for international students who complete an eligible study program at a Canadian Designated Learning Institution (DLI). This type of work permit is popular among those who come to Canada for an education because the work experience gained through this permit can assist in the foreign national’s eligibility for several Canadian permanent residence pathways.