PGWP Eligibility Deep Dive: Common Pitfalls for International Students

The journey of an international student in Canada is filled with excitement, learning, and incredible growth. For many, the ultimate goal extends beyond graduation day; it’s the dream of gaining valuable Canadian work experience, a crucial step often facilitated by the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). Statistics consistently show that the opportunity to work in Canada after studies is a major draw, attracting hundreds of thousands of bright minds from around the globe each year. This dream, however, hinges on meeting specific eligibility criteria, and unfortunately, navigating these requirements can sometimes feel like walking through a minefield.

What Exactly is the PGWP?

Think of the PGWP as a bridge between your life as a student and your potential future as a skilled worker or even a permanent resident in Canada. It’s an open work permit, meaning you can work for almost any employer, anywhere in Canada, for a duration that typically matches the length of your study program (up to a maximum of three years). This permit is invaluable. It allows you to apply the knowledge gained during your studies, immerse yourself in the Canadian workplace culture, build a professional network, and potentially qualify for permanent residency pathways like the Canadian Experience Class (CEC).

You may be interested in: The Ultimate Guide to Canadian Immigration for International Students (Study Permit to PR) [2025 Update]

Why This Article Matters

While the PGWP offers incredible opportunities, obtaining it isn’t automatic. The eligibility rules set by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) are strict, and many students unintentionally stumble into common pitfalls that jeopardize their applications. This article is your guide to understanding these frequent mistakes. We’ll dissect the most common eligibility traps – from maintaining your student status to choosing the right program and applying on time – and provide actionable tips to help you steer clear, ensuring your path to post-graduation work in Canada remains open.

You may be interested in: 7 Key Stages: Your Ultimate Guide from Canadian Student Visa to Permanent Residence

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

Let’s break down the four most common areas where international students run into trouble with their PGWP eligibility. Forewarned is forearmed!

1. Maintaining Full-Time Status: The Tightrope Walk

The Issue: This is arguably one of the most frequent and heartbreaking reasons for PGWP refusals. IRCC generally requires international students to maintain continuous full-time enrollment during each academic session (usually Fall and Winter semesters) throughout their program of study to be eligible for the PGWP. Part-time studies in your final academic session are usually acceptable, but unauthorized part-time studies or breaks in other semesters can render you ineligible. Many students inadvertently lose this status by dropping courses below the full-time threshold, taking unauthorized breaks, or misunderstanding their institution’s definition of “full-time.”

Why it’s a Problem: IRCC views maintaining full-time status as a core condition of your study permit (unless otherwise authorized). Failing to do so, even for one semester (excluding the final one), can be interpreted as not actively pursuing studies, breaking the conditions of your permit, and thus, making you ineligible for the PGWP.

The Solution: Proactive Planning & Communication

• Know Your DLI’s Definition: “Full-time” isn’t universally defined by IRCC; it’s determined by your Designated Learning Institution (DLI). Find out exactly how many credits or courses constitute full-time status per semester at your specific school. This information is usually available on the institution’s website or from the registrar’s office.
• Consult BEFORE Dropping Courses: If you’re considering dropping a course that would put you below full-time status, STOP. Schedule an urgent meeting with an International Student Advisor (ISA) or academic advisor at your institution. Explain your situation. There might be options, or they can advise on the potential consequences for your PGWP.
• Authorized Leaves are Key: Life happens. If you need to take time off due to medical reasons, family emergencies, or other valid circumstances, you must obtain an authorized leave from your DLI. This officially documents your break and ensures it doesn’t negatively impact your PGWP eligibility, provided you meet the conditions of the leave. Keep copies of all documentation!
• Understand the Final Semester Exception: Yes, you can typically be enrolled part-time in your very last academic session if you only need a few remaining credits to complete your program. However, ensure you were continuously enrolled full-time in all preceding semesters (excluding scheduled breaks and authorized leaves).
• Document Everything: Keep meticulous records of your enrollment status for every semester, including transcripts and any official communication regarding leaves or status changes.

2. Program Eligibility: Not All Paths Lead to PGWP

The Issue: Believing that simply studying at any Canadian institution automatically qualifies you for a PGWP is a critical mistake. Eligibility is tied to both the institution (it must be a Designated Learning Institution – DLI) and the specific program of study. Certain types of institutions, particularly some private career colleges, may be DLIs (meaning they can host international students) but their programs might not be PGWP-eligible. Furthermore, programs must be of a certain length (at least eight months leading to a degree, diploma, or certificate). Lastly, the mode of study matters; programs delivered primarily through distance learning have historically faced restrictions, although rules evolved during the pandemic (always check current IRCC policy!).

Why it’s a Problem: Investing time, money, and effort into a program only to discover at the end that it doesn’t qualify for a PGWP is devastating. It closes off a primary route for gaining Canadian work experience post-graduation.

The Solution: Verify, Verify, Verify – Before You Enroll!

• Check the Official DLI List: IRCC maintains a list of Designated Learning Institutions. Crucially, this list indicates whether the institution offers PGWP-eligible programs. Don’t just check if the school is a DLI; confirm its PGWP eligibility status! You can find this list on the IRCC website.
• Confirm Your Specific Program: Even at a PGWP-eligible institution, not every single program might qualify (though this is less common at public universities and colleges). It’s vital to confirm with the institution’s admissions office or international student services that the specific program you are enrolling in meets the requirements for PGWP eligibility upon successful completion. Ask directly: “Does completing this specific program make graduates eligible to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit?”
• Program Length Matters: Ensure your program is at least 8 months long. Programs shorter than this do not qualify for a PGWP. Programs between 8 months and less than 2 years may grant a PGWP valid for the length of the program, while programs of 2 years or more may grant a PGWP valid for up to 3 years.
• Understand Distance Learning Rules: Be cautious about programs delivered primarily online. While temporary COVID-19 policies allowed more flexibility, the standard rules generally require a significant portion of the program to be completed in-person in Canada. Check the current IRCC policy regarding distance learning and PGWP eligibility very carefully, especially if considering hybrid or online options.
• Get it in Writing: If possible, get confirmation from the institution regarding the program’s PGWP eligibility in writing (e.g., via email) for your records.

3. Timely Application: The Clock is Ticking

The Issue: The application window for the PGWP is strict. You must apply within 180 days of receiving written confirmation from your DLI (like an official letter or final transcript) indicating you have met the requirements for completing your program of study. Critically, you must also have held a valid study permit at some point during these 180 days. Many students miss this deadline due to procrastination, confusion about the start date of the 180-day window, or delays in obtaining necessary documents.

Why it’s a Problem: Missing the 180-day deadline means you lose your chance to apply for the PGWP. There are generally no extensions or exceptions. It’s a hard deadline.

The Solution: Prepare Early and Mark Your Calendar

• Identify the “Completion Date”: The 180-day clock starts ticking from the moment you receive your final marks or an official letter of completion from your institution – whichever comes first. It’s not necessarily your convocation date. Clarify with your institution when they issue these official confirmations.
• Maintain Valid Status: When you apply for the PGWP from within Canada, you must either have a valid study permit, or have submitted an application to extend your stay as a visitor before your study permit expired (and still be within the 180-day PGWP application window). If your study permit expires before you apply, you might lose your status and complicate your PGWP application immensely, potentially needing to restore status or apply from outside Canada. Ideally, apply while your study permit is still valid.
• Gather Documents in Advance: Don’t wait until the last minute. Start gathering the required documents well before you finish your final exams:
  • Official Letter of Completion from your DLI
  • Official Transcript (final)
  • Valid Passport
  • Copy of your Study Permit
  • Completed Application Form (IMM 5710 – Application to Change Conditions, Extend my Stay or Remain in Canada as a Worker)
  • Application Fee payment receipt
  • Digital Photo (if applying online)
  • Other documents as requested (e.g., medical exam if required)
• Apply Online: Online application through the IRCC portal is generally the preferred and often faster method.
• Understand Implied Status: If you apply for the PGWP before your study permit expires, you can legally continue working full-time under “implied status” while waiting for a decision on your PGWP application, provided you were eligible to work off-campus during your studies.
• Set Reminders: Mark the date you receive your official completion notification on your calendar. Set multiple reminders well before the 180-day deadline.

4. Understanding Work Limits During Studies: Don’t Cross the Line

The Issue: While studying, international students are typically allowed to work off-campus for a limited number of hours per week (usually up to 20 hours during regular academic sessions) and full-time during scheduled breaks (like summer or winter holidays). Exceeding these limits without authorization is a violation of study permit conditions. Temporary public policies sometimes lift the 20-hour limit, but these are exceptions, not the rule, and can end. Students might misunderstand these rules, work more hours than permitted, or work during unscheduled breaks.

Why it’s a Problem: Working more hours than allowed is considered unauthorized work and a breach of your study permit conditions. IRCC takes this seriously. It can lead to removal orders and will almost certainly result in the refusal of your PGWP application, as you failed to comply with the conditions of your stay as a student.

The Solution: Know the Rules and Track Your Hours Diligently

• Know the CURRENT Rules: Immigration policies can change. Always refer to the official IRCC website for the current rules regarding working hours for international students. Don’t rely on information from friends or outdated sources. Check if any temporary policies are in effect and understand their end dates. As of writing, be aware that temporary policies lifting the 20-hour cap may be ending or changing, so verify the exact rules applicable to you.
• Understand “Academic Session” vs. “Scheduled Break”: Clarify your institution’s official academic calendar. Only work full-time during breaks scheduled by the school (e.g., summer vacation, winter holidays, reading week). If you create your own break by taking a semester off without authorization, you are generally not permitted to work off-campus during that time.
• Track Your Hours Meticulously: Keep accurate records of your weekly work hours using timesheets or a logbook. Ensure you never exceed the limit during academic sessions.
• On-Campus vs. Off-Campus: Rules for on-campus work can sometimes differ slightly (often no hour limit). Understand the distinction and the specific rules that apply to you.
• Prioritize Studies: Your primary purpose in Canada on a study permit is to study. Ensure work doesn’t interfere with maintaining your full-time status and academic progress.
• When in Doubt, Ask: If you are unsure about your work eligibility or the hour limits, consult your DLI’s International Student Advisor or check the IRCC website before you start working or increase your hours. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

You may be interested in: My PGWP Was Refused: What Are My Options

What is the eligibility criteria for PGWP Canada?

The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is an open work permit that allows international students who have graduated from eligible Canadian institutions to gain valuable work experience in Canada. Below is a detailed breakdown of the eligibility criteria for obtaining a PGWP, based on the most recent information available as of May 5, 2025.

Eligibility Criteria for Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) in Canada

The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is an open work permit that allows international students who have graduated from eligible Canadian institutions to gain valuable work experience in Canada. Below is a detailed breakdown of the eligibility criteria for obtaining a PGWP, based on the most recent information available as of May 5, 2025.

General Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for a PGWP, you must meet all the following general requirements:

1. Completion of a Program at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI):
   • You must have completed a program of study at a PGWP-eligible DLI.
   • The program must be at least 8 months long (or 900 hours for Quebec programs).
2. Full-Time Student Status:
   • You must have maintained full-time student status during each semester of your program in Canada.
   • An exception is made if you studied part-time during your final semester.
3. Application Timing:
   • You must apply for the PGWP within 180 days of receiving confirmation that you completed your program of study (e.g., transcript or official letter from your institution).
   • Your study permit must have been valid at some point during these 180 days.
4. Study Permit Validity:
   • Your study permit should have been valid when you completed your program and before submitting your PGWP application.

Special Cases and Exceptions

1. Accelerated Programs:
   • If you complete an accelerated program in less time than its normal duration, you may still be eligible for a PGWP valid for the full length of the original program.
   • For example, completing a one-year program in eight months qualifies you for a one-year PGWP.
2. Distance Learning:
   • If part or all of your studies were conducted online due to COVID-19 policies:
     • For programs started between March 2020 and August 31, 2022: Up to 100% online studies are eligible if other criteria are met.
     • For programs started after September 1, 2022: At least 50% of the program must be completed in Canada (online or in-person).
     • After August 31, 2024, time spent studying online from outside Canada will not count toward PGWP eligibility.
3. Transfers Between Schools:
   • If you transferred between DLIs, only the time spent studying at the DLI counts toward eligibility.
   • You must spend at least eight months at the DLI granting your credential.
4. Programs with Overseas Components:
   • If your Canadian study program includes overseas components, only the time spent studying in Canada counts toward PGWP eligibility.
5. Quebec Graduates:
   • Specific documentation is required for graduates from Quebec schools, such as official letters confirming program completion and transcripts from recognized institutions.

Who Is Not Eligible?

You are not eligible for a PGWP if:

• You previously received a PGWP after completing another study program.
• Your study was primarily focused on English or French as a second language courses.
• You took general interest or self-improvement courses.
• Over 50% of your study was conducted through distance learning after August 31, 2024.
• Your funding or scholarship requires returning to your home country after graduation.
• You studied at non-PGWP-eligible institutions or programs delivered under public-private partnerships without meeting specific exceptions.

Eligibility Based on Level and Field of Study

The level and field of study also determine eligibility:

Bachelor’s Degree, Master’s Degree, or Doctoral Degree

• No specific field-of-study requirements apply.
• Language Requirement:
  • For applications submitted on or after November 1, 2024:
    • Minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level of 7 in English or Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens (NCLC) level of 7 in French across all four areas (reading, writing, listening, speaking).

Other University Programs

• Field-of-study requirements apply if you submitted your study permit application on or after November 1, 2024.
• Language Requirement: Same as above—minimum CLB/NCLC level of 7.

College/Polytechnic/Non-University Programs

• Field-of-study requirements apply if you submitted your study permit application on or after November 1, 2024.
• Language Requirement: Minimum CLB/NCLC level of 5 across all four areas.

Flight School Graduates

Graduates from flight schools are eligible if they meet one of these conditions:

• Completed flight training at a DLI and hold a Canadian commercial pilot’s license; OR
• Have an instructor’s rating with an offer to work as a flight instructor at a DLI flight school.

No language or field-of-study requirements apply to flight school graduates.

Additional Notes

Duration of Work Permit

The length of the PGWP depends on the duration and type of study program:

• Programs less than two years but more than eight months: The PGWP will match the length of the study period.
• Programs two years or longer: A three-year PGWP may be issued.

If multiple eligible programs are completed consecutively (each lasting at least eight months), their durations can be combined to determine overall validity.

Passport Expiry

Your passport’s expiry date can limit how long your PGWP is issued. Ensure it is valid for the full period you’re eligible before applying.

Summary

To be eligible for Canada’s Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), applicants must complete an eligible full-time academic program lasting at least eight months from a designated learning institution (DLI), maintain full-time status throughout their studies except during their final term if part-time status applies, and submit their application within 180 days upon receiving confirmation that they’ve met graduation requirements. Special cases include accelerated programs and distance learning policies due to COVID-19 restrictions. As per changes effective November 1, 2024, new language proficiency benchmarks and field-of-study requirements may also apply depending on when applications were submitted.

What is the new rule for PGWP in Canada?

New Rules for Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) in Canada:

The new rules for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) in Canada, effective November 1, 2024, introduce significant changes to eligibility criteria, including language proficiency requirements and field of study specifications. These changes aim to align the PGWP program more closely with Canada’s labor market needs.

Key Changes Effective November 1, 2024

1. Language Proficiency Requirements

• Applicants must now demonstrate proficiency in either English or French across all four language areas: reading, writing, listening, and speaking.
• The required Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) levels differ based on the type of program completed:
  • Bachelor’s Degree, Master’s Degree, or Doctoral Degree Graduates: Minimum CLB 7 in English or NCLC 7 in French.
  • Other University Programs: Minimum CLB 7 in English or NCLC 7 in French.
  • College Programs or Non-University Programs: Minimum CLB 5 in English or NCLC 5 in French.

New Rules for Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) in Canada

The new rules for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) in Canada, effective November 1, 2024, introduce significant changes to eligibility criteria, including language proficiency requirements and field of study specifications. These changes aim to align the PGWP program more closely with Canada’s labor market needs.

Key Changes Effective November 1, 2024

1. Language Proficiency Requirements

• Applicants must now demonstrate proficiency in either English or French across all four language areas: reading, writing, listening, and speaking.
• The required Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) levels differ based on the type of program completed:
  • Bachelor’s Degree, Master’s Degree, or Doctoral Degree Graduates: Minimum CLB 7 in English or NCLC 7 in French.
  • Other University Programs: Minimum CLB 7 in English or NCLC 7 in French.
  • College Programs or Non-University Programs: Minimum CLB 5 in English or NCLC 5 in French.

2. Field of Study Requirements

• For study permit applications submitted on or after November 1, 2024:
  • Graduates from certain programs must meet field of study requirements linked to long-term labor shortages in Canada.
  • Eligible fields include:
    • Agriculture and Agri-Food
    • Healthcare
    • Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)
    • Trade
    • Transport
• Bachelor’s degree holders are exempt from field-specific requirements; all fields remain eligible for them.

3. Distance Learning Adjustments

• Time spent studying outside Canada after August 31, 2024, will no longer count toward PGWP eligibility.
• At least 50% of the program must be completed in-class within Canada for applications submitted on or after September 1, 2024.

4. Curriculum Licensing Agreements

• Programs delivered through public-private partnerships (P3s) are generally not eligible unless specific exceptions apply:
  • If the program began before May 15, 2024 (within the same province), or before January 31, 2023 (between provinces), it may still qualify.

5. Application Timing

• Applicants must apply for their PGWP within 180 days of receiving confirmation that they have completed their program.
• The study permit must have been valid at some point during this period.

Transitional Rules Based on Application Date

• If you applied for a study permit before November 1, 2024:
  • You are exempt from field-of-study requirements but must meet the new language proficiency benchmarks if applying for a PGWP after November 1, 2024.
• If you applied on or after November 1, 2024:
  • Both language proficiency and field-of-study requirements apply.

Additional Notes

• The maximum duration of a PGWP remains unchanged: up to three years depending on the length of the academic program completed.
• Graduates who already received a PGWP cannot apply for another one.

What are the limits of PGWP?

Limits of the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP):

The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is a valuable opportunity for international students who have completed their studies in Canada to gain work experience. However, there are specific limits and restrictions associated with the PGWP. Below is a detailed explanation of these limits:

Limits of the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is a valuable opportunity for international students who have completed their studies in Canada to gain work experience. However, there are specific limits and restrictions associated with the PGWP. Below is a detailed explanation of these limits:

1. One-Time Issuance

You can only receive a PGWP once in your lifetime.
This means that if you have already been granted a PGWP after completing a previous program of study, you cannot apply for another one, even if you complete another eligible program in Canada.

2. Duration of the PGWP

The length of the PGWP depends on the duration of your study program:

• Programs less than 8 months: You are not eligible for a PGWP.
• Programs between 8 months and less than 2 years: The PGWP will be valid for the same length as your study program.
  • For example, if you completed a 9-month program, your PGWP will be valid for up to 9 months.
• Programs lasting 2 years or more: You may be eligible for a 3-year PGWP.
• Master’s degree programs (as of February 15, 2024): Even if your master’s program was less than two years but at least eight months long, you can still apply for a three-year PGWP.

3. Passport Expiry

The validity of your passport directly affects the duration of your PGWP:

• If your passport expires before the full length of time you are eligible for under the PGWP rules, your work permit will only be issued until your passport’s expiry date.
• To maximize the duration of your PGWP, ensure that your passport is valid for the entire period you are eligible before applying.

4. Eligibility Based on Study Program

Not all programs or institutions qualify for a PGWP:

• You must graduate from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) with an eligible program.
• Programs must be at least eight months long and lead to a degree, diploma, or certificate.
• Certain types of programs are not eligible:
  • General interest or self-improvement courses
  • English or French as second language courses
  • Programs delivered by non-PGWP-eligible institutions

Additionally:

• If more than 50% of your study program was completed through distance learning (online), either inside or outside Canada after August 31, 2024, this time will not count toward eligibility or reduce the length of the permit.

5. Language Proficiency Requirements (Effective November 1, 2024)

For applications submitted on or after November 1, 2024:

• Graduates from college programs must meet minimum language proficiency requirements: Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level 5 in English or French.
• Graduates from bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree programs must meet CLB level 7 in English or French across all four language skills.

6. Field-of-Study Restrictions

As of November 1, 2024:

• For college graduates applying on or after this date, their field of study must align with certain occupations experiencing long-term shortages unless they applied before this policy change.

However:

• There are no field-of-study restrictions for graduates with bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, or doctoral degrees from Canadian institutions.

7. Distance Learning and Overseas Studies

Time spent studying online outside Canada has limitations:

• For students who began their studies after September 1, 2024: Time spent studying outside Canada will reduce the length of their PGWP.
• At least 50% of their studies must be completed in-class within Canada to qualify fully.

8. Authorized Leave and Transfers Between Institutions

If you take an unauthorized leave from studies exceeding permitted durations (e.g., more than 150 days), it may affect eligibility for a PGWP. Similarly:

• Only time spent at Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) counts toward eligibility when transferring schools.

9. Ineligibility Scenarios

You are not eligible for a PGWP if:

• You have already received one previously.
• Your study program was funded by Global Affairs Canada with conditions requiring return to your home country post-graduation.
• Your institution was not DLI-approved at any point during enrollment.

Special cases like flight school graduates require additional qualifications such as obtaining commercial pilot licenses.

Summary: The key limits on the Post-Graduation Work Permit include its one-time issuance policy; restrictions based on program type and duration; requirements tied to passport validity; new language proficiency standards; field-of-study alignment (for some applicants); and constraints related to distance learning and authorized leaves from studies.

Can I get PGWP after 2 years diploma in Canada?

Yes, you can get a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) after completing a 2-year diploma program in Canada, provided you meet all the eligibility requirements set by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Below is a detailed explanation of the criteria and conditions that apply to obtaining a PGWP after completing such a program.

Can You Get a PGWP After Completing a 2-Year Diploma in Canada?

Yes, you can get a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) after completing a 2-year diploma program in Canada, provided you meet all the eligibility requirements set by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Below is a detailed explanation of the criteria and conditions that apply to obtaining a PGWP after completing such a program.

Eligibility Requirements for PGWP After a 2-Year Diploma

1. Program Duration

A diploma program that is at least two years long qualifies you for a PGWP with a validity period of up to three years. According to IRCC guidelines:

• If your study program was two years or more, you may receive a PGWP valid for three years.
• This allows you sufficient time to gain Canadian work experience, which can be beneficial if you plan to apply for permanent residency through programs like the Canadian Experience Class under Express Entry.

2. Designated Learning Institution (DLI) Requirement

To be eligible for a PGWP, your diploma must be obtained from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada. Not all DLIs offer programs that make graduates eligible for the PGWP. Therefore:

• Ensure that your institution and program are listed as PGWP-eligible on the official DLI list provided by IRCC.

3. Full-Time Student Status

You must have maintained full-time student status during each semester of your diploma program in Canada. Exceptions are made only for:

• Your final semester, where part-time enrollment is allowed if it is your last remaining requirement to complete the program.
• Authorized leaves of absence (up to 150 days), provided they are approved by your institution.

4. Application Timeline

You must apply for your PGWP within 180 days of receiving confirmation from your institution that you have completed your diploma program. This confirmation can include:

• An official letter from your school.
• A transcript showing that you have met all graduation requirements.

5. Language Proficiency Requirements (Effective November 1, 2024)

If you apply for a study permit or study permit extension on or after November 1, 2024, new language proficiency requirements will apply:

• For college graduates (including those with diplomas), you must demonstrate English or French proficiency at Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level 5.
• Accepted tests include IELTS General Training, CELPIP-General, and PTE Core for English; and TEF Canada or TCF Canada for French.

6. In-Class Study Requirement

As of September 1, 2024:

• At least 50% of your studies must be completed in-class within Canada.
• Time spent studying online from outside Canada after this date will not count toward the length of your PGWP.

Additional Considerations

Combining Multiple Programs

If you complete two consecutive diploma programs within two years at eligible DLIs, both programs can be combined when determining the length of your PGWP. For example:

• If each program is one year long and both are completed back-to-back at eligible institutions, you may qualify for a three-year PGWP.

Passport Validity

Your passport must be valid for the entire duration of the PGWP you’re eligible for. If it expires earlier:

• You will receive a shorter work permit matching the expiry date of your passport.
• You can later extend your PGWP once you renew your passport.

Who Is Not Eligible?

You are not eligible for a PGWP if:

1. You studied at an institution or in a program that is not PGWP-eligible.
2. More than 50% of your study program was completed through distance learning (online courses).
3. You previously received a PGWP after completing another academic program.
4. Your funding required returning to your home country upon graduation due to scholarship conditions.

Conclusion: If you complete a two-year diploma at an eligible DLI in Canada while meeting all other criteria outlined above—such as maintaining full-time status and applying within the required timeframe—you will qualify for up to three years on a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).

Conclusion: Your PGWP Journey Starts Now

The Post-Graduation Work Permit is a fantastic opportunity, but eligibility isn’t guaranteed. It requires diligence, awareness, and proactive planning right from the moment you start considering studying in Canada.

By understanding and actively avoiding these common pitfalls – ensuring continuous full-time enrollment, verifying program eligibility before applying, submitting your PGWP application well within the deadline, and strictly adhering to work limitations during your studies – you significantly increase your chances of a successful transition from student to Canadian work experience holder.

Your Call to Action:

Don’t leave your PGWP eligibility to chance.

1. Research Thoroughly: Before choosing a program and institution, verify their DLI and PGWP eligibility status directly with IRCC resources and the school itself.
2. Plan Diligently: Understand the requirements for maintaining full-time status and plan your course load accordingly.
3. Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with IRCC rules regarding study permits, work hours, and PGWP applications. Policies can change!
4. Seek Guidance: Utilize the resources available at your DLI, especially International Student Advisors. They are there to help you navigate these complexities.

Your Canadian dream is worth the effort. Prepare well, stay informed, and you’ll be well on your way to settling into your post-graduation life in Canada.

You may be interested in: 10 Essential Steps to Apply for Your Post Graduation Work Permit (PGWP): Complete Guide for 2025

Additional Resources

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to official sources:

• IRCC – Post-Graduation Work Permit Program (PGWP): https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/study-canada/work/after-graduation/about.html
• IRCC – Find out if you’re eligible for a PGWP: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/study-canada/work/after-graduation/eligibility.html
• IRCC – Designated Learning Institutions List: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/study-canada/study-permit/prepare/designated-learning-institutions-list.html (Check the column indicating PGWP eligibility)
• IRCC – Work off campus as an international student: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/study-canada/work/work-off-campus.html (Check for current hour limits and policies)
• Your DLI’s International Student Services/Centre: Your institution’s advisors are a primary resource for personalized guidance. Check your school’s website for their contact information.

Good luck with your studies and your future PGWP application!