PGWP Eligibility Checker Canada 2026
Check your Post-Graduation Work Permit eligibility. Covers 2024 rule changes for field of study, institution type, program duration, and CLB requirements.
Key Takeaways
- Programs must be at least 8 months long at an eligible DLI to qualify for a PGWP.
- University degrees (bachelor, master, PhD) always get a 3-year PGWP regardless of field of study.
- College diplomas and post-graduate certificates are now restricted to eligible fields: agriculture, healthcare, STEM, and trades.
- You must apply within 180 days of receiving your final marks or completion letter.
- After 12 months of skilled work on a PGWP, you may qualify for Canadian Experience Class (CEC) Express Entry.
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Eligibility Checker
The Post-Graduation Work Permit allows international graduates from eligible Canadian institutions to work in Canada after completing their studies. Major rule changes took effect November 1, 2024, introducing field-of-study restrictions for college programs and new language requirements.
How It Works
This tool evaluates your program against current IRCC PGWP rules. Enter your program type, duration, institution, and field of study to check eligibility. The checker accounts for the November 2024 changes including CLB language requirements (CLB 7 for university, CLB 5 for college) and eligible field categories for college-level programs.
November 2024 PGWP Rule Changes
IRCC implemented significant changes effective November 1, 2024. College-level programs must now be in eligible fields of study: agriculture and agri-food, healthcare, STEM, or trade and transport. University degree programs are unaffected. New language requirements were also introduced: CLB 7 minimum for university graduates and CLB 5 for college graduates.
PGWP Duration Rules
PGWP duration depends on program length. Programs 8-23 months receive a PGWP matching the program duration. Programs of 24 months or longer receive the maximum 3-year PGWP. University degrees (bachelor, master, PhD) always receive a 3-year PGWP regardless of program length. The PGWP is issued once and cannot be renewed or extended.
From PGWP to Permanent Residence
The PGWP is a key step in the study-to-PR pipeline. After 12 months of skilled work experience (NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3) on a PGWP, graduates become eligible for the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) stream under Express Entry. CEC applicants often receive higher CRS scores due to their Canadian work experience and education.
Key Facts
- The PGWP is an open work permit — you can work for any employer in any occupation.
- You must have maintained full-time student status during each academic semester.
- Distance learning programs completed outside Canada are generally not eligible.
- Private institutions are only PGWP-eligible if they can confer degrees (not diplomas).
- Quebec private institutions operating under the same rules as public institutions are eligible.
FAQ
What happens if my program is less than 8 months?
Programs under 8 months are not eligible for a PGWP. You would need to apply for a different type of work permit, such as an employer-specific LMIA-based permit.
Can I combine two shorter programs to qualify for a longer PGWP?
Yes, in some cases you can combine two programs of 8+ months each at eligible DLIs to qualify for a PGWP up to 3 years, provided the combined duration is 2+ years. Both programs must individually be PGWP-eligible.
Do the 2024 field-of-study restrictions apply to university programs?
No. Field-of-study restrictions only apply to college diploma and post-graduate certificate programs. University degree programs (bachelor, master, PhD) remain unrestricted.
What is the 180-day application deadline?
You must apply for your PGWP within 180 days of receiving written confirmation of completing your program (final transcript or completion letter). Missing this deadline means you cannot get a PGWP.
Updated March 2026. Information on this page is provided for educational purposes only. Tax rules, rates, and government programs may change — verify details with the CRA or a qualified financial advisor.