From Canadian Graduate to Permanent Resident
The Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) is your bridge from international student to Canadian PR. Our RCIC-authorized consultants (R506940) handle every step — eligibility check, document prep and submission — so your first step into Canada's workforce is secure.
RCIC R506940
Authorized Consultant
Toronto Office
Serving All Provinces
4.9 Rating
Google Reviews
60,000+ Clients
Helped Since 2004
What is a Post-Graduate Work Permit?
A PGWP is an open work permit issued by IRCC to eligible graduates of Canadian post-secondary institutions. It lets you work for any employer, in any role, anywhere in Canada — for up to 3 years. It is the most direct route to qualifying for the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) stream of Express Entry and ultimately Canadian permanent residence.
Up to 3 years
Maximum PGWP validity (matches program length)
Open permit
No employer restrictions — work anywhere in Canada
90-day window
Apply within 90 days of your final transcript confirmation
How we handle your PGWP application
Six clear steps from eligibility check to PR pathway planning.
Check eligibility
Your institution must be a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) with a public post-secondary program of at least 8 months. We confirm your eligibility before anything else.
Gather documents
Final transcripts, graduation letter, passport, previous study permits, and biometrics if required. We provide a complete checklist tailored to your situation.
Submit online application
PGWP applications are filed online through your IRCC account. We prepare and review every field before submission to avoid common rejection triggers.
Maintain status
If you apply within 90 days of receiving your final transcript, you can maintain status and continue working full-time while your PGWP is processed.
PGWP approved
Your open work permit arrives — valid for the length of your study program, up to a maximum of 3 years. No employer restrictions.
Build toward PR
After 12 months of skilled Canadian work experience (NOC TEER 0–3), you qualify for Express Entry Canadian Experience Class. We help you plan from day one.
Why work with an RCIC for your PGWP?
Avoid preventable rejections
Missing documents, incorrect forms, or institutional eligibility mistakes are the top reasons PGWP applications are refused. We catch every issue before submission.
Meet critical deadlines
The 90-day window and implied status rules require precise timing. We track every date from your graduation confirmation onward.
Plan your PR pathway from day one
We map your NOC code, CRS score potential, and Express Entry timeline so you know exactly what to do during your PGWP period to maximize your PR chances.
RCIC-authorized representation
Only a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) or lawyer can legally represent you before IRCC. Our consultant is registered as R506940.
PGWP → CEC → PR: your complete roadmap
The PGWP is not just a work permit — it is the first milestone on a structured pathway to Canadian permanent residence through Express Entry.
Graduate
Complete your eligible Canadian program (minimum 8 months at a DLI).
Apply for PGWP
Within 90 days of final transcript. We handle the full application.
Work in Canada
Gain skilled Canadian work experience (NOC TEER 0–3) for minimum 12 months.
Enter Express Entry CEC
Create your profile, optimize CRS score, and receive an Invitation to Apply.
Permanent Residence
IRCC targets a 6-month processing window for Express Entry applications.
Ready to secure your Post-Graduate Work Permit?
Book a free consultation with our RCIC (R506940) and get a personalised eligibility assessment — no obligation, no jargon.
Frequently asked questions
Everything you need to know about the Post-Graduate Work Permit.