Can I get a work permit after graduating from a Canadian college or university?
Yes. Eligible international students who graduate from a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada may apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which is an open work permit that lets you gain Canadian work experience after graduation. This is a federal program administered by IRCC.
To qualify, your study program generally must have been at least eight months long at an eligible DLI, and you must apply within a specified window after receiving your final marks or your degree/diploma. The length of the PGWP is tied to the length of your program of study, up to a maximum set by federal regulation.
A PGWP is issued only once per person — you cannot get a second one. This makes it strategically important: many graduates use the Canadian work experience gained under a PGWP to qualify for permanent residence pathways such as the Canadian Experience Class under Express Entry.
It is essential to apply before your current status (student permit) expires and to carefully meet all the program-specific requirements. An immigration lawyer can help you plan the transition from student to worker and toward permanent residence.
Key takeaways
- International graduates from eligible Canadian programs can apply for a PGWP.
- The PGWP is an open work permit — no specific employer or LMIA required.
- You can only receive a PGWP once, so strategic planning matters.
- Many use PGWP work experience as a pathway toward permanent residence.