Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Canada – Complete Guide for Filipinos (2026)

expiring work permit

Your Pathway from International Student to Canadian Worker

The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is one of Canada’s most valuable immigration tools for international students. It allows graduates of eligible Canadian institutions to work anywhere in Canada for up to 3 years after graduation – a crucial stepping stone toward permanent residence.

For Filipino students studying in Canada, the PGWP represents an excellent opportunity to gain Canadian work experience and build a pathway to PR through programs like the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) or Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP).

At JCA Law Office Professional Corporation, we’ve helped hundreds of Filipino international students navigate the PGWP process and transition to permanent residence. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about PGWP eligibility, the 2024-2025 changes, and how to apply successfully.

What is a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)?

A PGWP is an open work permit that allows international students who have graduated from eligible Canadian Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) to work in Canada. Key features include:

  • Open work permit – Work for any employer in any occupation
  • No Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) required
  • Valid for 8 months to 3 years depending on program length
  • One-time opportunity – You can only receive a PGWP once in your lifetime
  • Gateway to PR – Canadian work experience qualifies you for Express Entry CEC

Major Changes: November 2024 Updates

IRCC implemented significant changes to PGWP eligibility effective November 1, 2024. Understanding these changes is critical for current and prospective international students.

1. New Language Requirements

All PGWP applicants must now demonstrate minimum language proficiency:

Program Type Required CLB Level IELTS Equivalent
Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctoral Degree CLB 7 6.0 in all bands
Other University Programs CLB 7 6.0 in all bands
College Diploma/Certificate Programs CLB 5 5.0 (L/W/S), 4.0 (R)

Accepted Language Tests:

  • IELTS General Training
  • CELPIP General
  • PTE Core
  • TEF Canada (French)
  • TCF Canada (French)

Important: Language test results must be less than 2 years old when you submit your PGWP application.

2. Field of Study Requirements

Students who submitted study permit applications on or after November 1, 2024 must graduate from an eligible field of study to qualify for a PGWP. Eligible fields are linked to occupations with long-term labour shortages.

Eligible Categories:

  • Agriculture and Agri-Food – Food production, agricultural sciences
  • Healthcare – Nursing, medical technology, healthcare support
  • STEM – Science, technology, engineering, mathematics
  • Skilled Trades – Electricians, plumbers, construction trades
  • Transport – Logistics, transportation management
  • Early Childhood Education – Added December 2024

Who is Exempt from Field of Study Requirements:

  • Students who applied for study permits before November 1, 2024
  • Graduates with Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctoral degrees (any field)
  • Graduates from PGWP-eligible flight schools

3. July 2025 Updates

  • 119 new fields added to the eligible list in healthcare, education, and trades
  • 920 total fields now eligible for PGWP
  • Fields removed in June 2025 were added back and will remain eligible until early 2026
  • Students who applied between June 25-July 4, 2025 maintain eligibility

PGWP Eligibility Requirements

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

1. Study Program Requirements

  • Completed a program at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
  • Program was at least 8 months in duration (900 hours for Quebec)
  • Led to a degree, diploma, or certificate (not just a certificate of completion)
  • Not an ESL/FSL language program or general interest course

2. Study Completion Requirements

  • Maintained full-time student status throughout the program
  • Part-time study permitted only in final academic semester
  • Completed no more than 50% of program via distance learning (exception for COVID-19 period ending August 31, 2024)

3. Application Timing

  • Must apply within 180 days of receiving your final marks/completion letter
  • Must have held a valid study permit at some point during the 180-day period before application
  • If applying from within Canada, study permit must be valid at time of application (or you must have applied for restoration of status)

4. Language Requirements (Since November 1, 2024)

Must provide proof of language proficiency (see table above) unless you applied for your PGWP before November 1, 2024.

5. Field of Study (If Applicable)

If you submitted your study permit application on or after November 1, 2024, your program must be in an eligible field of study (except for degree programs).

PGWP Duration: How Long Will Your Permit Be Valid?

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

Study Program Length PGWP Duration
Less than 8 months Not eligible
8 months to less than 2 years Same as program length (e.g., 10-month program = 10-month PGWP)
2 years or longer Up to 3 years
Master’s degree (8+ months, any duration) 3 years (special rule since February 2024)

Combining Programs

If you complete multiple programs consecutively, the combined duration counts toward your PGWP eligibility. For example:

  • Two 1-year diploma programs = Up to 3-year PGWP
  • 8-month certificate + 1-year diploma = Combined duration determines PGWP length

Accelerated Studies

If you complete your program faster than the official duration (e.g., finishing a 2-year program in 16 months), your PGWP is based on the official program length, not your completion time. You would still qualify for a 2-year PGWP.

Passport Validity

Your PGWP cannot be issued for longer than your passport validity. If your passport expires before your maximum PGWP duration, consider renewing your passport before applying.

How to Apply for a PGWP

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

Prepare the following documents:

Document Details
Application Form (IMM 5710) Select “Apply for a work permit for the first time”
Valid Passport Should be valid for duration of requested PGWP
Completion Letter From your school confirming program completion
Official Transcript Showing all courses and grades
Study Permit Copy of your current/most recent study permit
Language Test Results IELTS, CELPIP, PTE Core, or TEF/TCF (less than 2 years old)
Digital Photographs Two photos meeting IRCC specifications

Step 2: Apply Online

  1. Create or log into your IRCC online account
  2. Select “Apply for a work permit”
  3. Choose Post-Graduation Work Permit
  4. Upload all required documents
  5. Pay the fees
  6. Submit your application

Step 3: Biometrics

After submission, you’ll receive an instruction letter to provide biometrics (fingerprints and photo) within 30 days. Visit a designated Service Canada location or biometrics collection point.

Step 4: Wait for Processing

You’ll receive an Acknowledgment of Receipt (AOR). Track your application status through your IRCC account.

PGWP Fees (2025-2026)

Fee Type Amount (CAD)
Work Permit Processing Fee $155
Open Work Permit Holder Fee $100
Biometrics Fee $85
Total $340 CAD

PGWP Processing Times

Processing times vary based on application volume and method:

  • Online applications from within Canada: 80-180 days (average)
  • Paper applications: 120+ days (not recommended)
  • Peak periods (May-August): Up to 233 days

New Service Standard: IRCC has announced a target of 45-day processing as part of upcoming reforms.

Check current processing times at the official IRCC website.

Working While Your PGWP is Being Processed

You can continue working full-time while waiting for your PGWP decision if:

  • You had a valid study permit when you applied for the PGWP
  • Your study permit has not expired, OR
  • Your study permit expired but you applied before it expired

This is called “implied status” – you maintain your previous authorization to work while IRCC processes your application.

Important: Keep proof of your PGWP application (AOR letter) and expired study permit to show employers.

From PGWP to Permanent Residence

The PGWP is designed as a bridge to permanent residence. Here’s how to transition:

Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

The most common pathway for PGWP holders:

  • Requires 1 year (1,560 hours) of skilled Canadian work experience
  • Work must be in NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3
  • Experience gained within the last 3 years
  • Language: CLB 7 (NOC TEER 0/1) or CLB 5 (NOC TEER 2/3)

Learn more: Canadian Experience Class – PR in Canada

Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)

Many provinces have streams specifically for international graduates:

Key Benefit: A provincial nomination adds 600 CRS points to your Express Entry profile, virtually guaranteeing an invitation to apply.

Timeline: Student to PR

Stage Duration
Study Program 1-4 years
PGWP Application Processing 3-6 months
Gain Work Experience 1 year minimum
Express Entry/PNP Processing 6-18 months
Total Timeline 3-5+ years

Common PGWP Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Missing the 180-day deadline – Mark your calendar from the date of your completion letter
  2. Letting your study permit expire – Apply while your study permit is still valid
  3. Forgetting language test – Book your IELTS/CELPIP early (since November 2024, this is mandatory)
  4. Incomplete application – Missing documents cause delays or refusals
  5. Wrong program type – Ensure your school and program are PGWP-eligible
  6. Distance learning issues – More than 50% online study disqualifies you
  7. Leaving Canada before applying – While you can now apply from abroad, it’s generally easier to apply from within Canada

IELTS Score Requirements for PGWP

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the IELTS scores needed for PGWP:

CLB 7 (University Graduates)

Skill IELTS Score Required
Listening 6.0
Reading 6.0
Writing 6.0
Speaking 6.0

CLB 5 (College Graduates)

Skill IELTS Score Required
Listening 5.0
Reading 4.0
Writing 5.0
Speaking 5.0

Tip for Filipino Students: Consider taking your language test early in your final semester. This gives you time to retake if needed and ensures your results are ready when you apply for your PGWP.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a PGWP if I studied online?

You may be disqualified if more than 50% of your program was completed via distance learning. However, there was a temporary exception for courses taken online during the COVID-19 pandemic (until August 31, 2024).

What if my study permit expires before I get my PGWP?

If you applied for your PGWP before your study permit expired, you have “implied status” and can continue working. If your study permit already expired and you haven’t applied, you may need to apply for restoration of status first.

Can I travel outside Canada while my PGWP is being processed?

It’s generally not recommended. If you leave Canada, you may face complications re-entering. Wait until your PGWP is approved before traveling internationally.

My program was only 8 months. Can I combine it with another program?

Yes, if you complete two consecutive programs at eligible DLIs, the combined duration determines your PGWP eligibility. Both programs must lead to separate credentials.

What happens if my PGWP application is refused?

You may need to leave Canada unless you have another valid status. Common reasons for refusal include missing documents, ineligible program, or failure to meet language requirements. Consult an immigration lawyer to understand your options.

Can I extend my PGWP?

Generally, no. A PGWP can only be issued once. However, there have been temporary policies allowing extensions during certain periods. If your PGWP is expiring and you haven’t obtained PR, consider applying for a different work permit (e.g., employer-specific work permit with LMIA).

Do I need a job offer to apply for PGWP?

No. The PGWP is an open work permit, meaning you don’t need a job offer. You can work for any employer in any occupation across Canada.

What’s the difference between PGWP and a regular work permit?

  • PGWP: Open permit, no LMIA required, work for any employer
  • Employer-specific work permit: Tied to one employer, usually requires LMIA

Tips for Filipino International Students

1. Choose PGWP-Eligible Programs

Before you apply to study in Canada, verify that:

  • The school is a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
  • The program is PGWP-eligible
  • The field of study is on the eligible list (if you applied for your study permit after November 1, 2024)

2. Maintain Full-Time Status

Stay enrolled full-time throughout your program. Taking reduced course loads or leaves of absence can affect your PGWP eligibility.

3. Plan Your Language Test

Book your IELTS, CELPIP, or PTE Core at least 2-3 months before you plan to apply for your PGWP. Test centers can be busy, especially near graduation periods.

4. Keep All Documents

Maintain copies of:

  • All study permits (current and previous)
  • Transcripts from each semester
  • Completion letter
  • Any co-op or work term letters

5. Start Your PR Planning Early

Don’t wait until your PGWP is about to expire. Start planning your PR pathway during your studies:

  • Research Express Entry requirements
  • Explore provincial nominee programs in your province
  • Network and look for employment in your field

How JCA Law Office Can Help

At JCA Law Office, we provide comprehensive support for international students:

  • PGWP Application Review – Ensure your application is complete and accurate
  • Eligibility Assessment – Verify your program and status qualify for PGWP
  • Document Preparation – Help gather and organize required documents
  • PR Pathway Planning – Strategic advice on transitioning from PGWP to permanent residence
  • Express Entry Profile Creation – Optimize your CRS score
  • PNP Applications – Provincial nominee applications for international graduates
  • Refusal Response – Appeals and reapplication strategies

Book a Consultation

Don’t leave your Canadian future to chance. Contact JCA Law Office today:

Related Resources

Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration laws and policies change frequently. Consult with a licensed immigration lawyer for advice specific to your situation.

Last Updated: December 2025

]]>

Share This
-->