Hakam Immigration Services · Vancouver, BC
Post-Graduation
Work Permit
You studied hard. Now stay, work, and build your future in Canada. The PGWP is one of the most valuable opportunities available to eligible international graduates.
PGWP Overview
What is the
PGWP?
The Post-Graduation Work Permit is an open work permit that allows eligible graduates of Canadian designated learning institutions to work in Canada after completing their studies.
Unlike an employer-specific work permit, a PGWP is not tied to one employer. It can give eligible graduates flexibility to work, gain Canadian experience, and build a stronger immigration profile.
The PGWP is usually a one-time opportunity. This makes timing, eligibility review, document preparation, and long-term permanent residence planning very important.
At Hakam Immigration Services, we help graduating students understand PGWP eligibility, apply correctly, and plan their next steps toward long-term status in Canada.
Who qualifies?
Not every graduate
automatically qualifies.
PGWP eligibility depends on your institution, program, study history, timing, and whether you previously received a PGWP.
Eligible DLI
You must have graduated from an eligible designated learning institution in Canada that is approved for PGWP purposes.
Minimum Program Duration
Your program must meet the minimum duration requirement. Short programs may not qualify for a PGWP.
Full-Time Study
You generally need to have maintained full-time student status during each academic session, subject to limited exceptions.
Official Completion Proof
You need written confirmation that you completed your program, usually through a transcript and completion letter.
Apply Within 180 Days
You must apply within the required window after receiving written confirmation of program completion.
Never Held a PGWP Before
The PGWP is generally issued once. If you previously received one, you may not be eligible to apply again.
PGWP length
How long could
your PGWP be?
The length of your PGWP depends on the length and type of your program, your eligibility, and sometimes your passport validity.
Programs under two years
Eligible graduates of shorter programs may receive a PGWP based on the length of the program, subject to current rules and eligibility.
Programs of two years or more
Eligible graduates of longer qualifying programs may receive a longer PGWP, potentially up to the maximum duration available under the rules.
Programs that do not meet PGWP rules
Some programs, institutions, study formats, or study histories may not qualify. Eligibility should be checked before relying on the PGWP pathway.
How to apply
The application is simple
until timing goes wrong.
The PGWP process is straightforward, but missing the application window or applying with weak documentation can create serious problems.
Receive confirmation of completion
Once your institution confirms you completed your program, your PGWP timing becomes critical.
Confirm PGWP eligibility
We review your school, program, study history, timing, previous PGWP history, and status in Canada.
Gather documents
Documents may include passport, study permit, transcript, completion letter, and supporting explanations if needed.
Submit online through IRCC
The application should be complete, consistent, and submitted within the applicable deadline.
Understand work authorization while waiting
Some applicants may be able to work while waiting for a decision if they meet the required conditions.
Plan your PR pathway early
Once your PGWP is approved, the clock starts. Your Canadian work experience should be planned toward PR from day one.
Documents
What documents may
be required?
PGWP documents depend on your study history and current status, but these are common items reviewed before filing.
Passport
Your passport should be valid long enough to support the PGWP length you may be eligible for.
Study Permit and Status Documents
Your current and previous status documents help confirm your legal status and study authorization history.
Official Transcript
Your transcript helps demonstrate that you completed the program and supports the PGWP request.
Completion Letter
An official completion letter from your institution is usually central to the PGWP application.
Explanation Letter if Needed
If your history includes gaps, part-time study, online study, passport issues, or status complications, an explanation may be needed.
How we help
The PGWP is a one-time opportunity.
Use it properly.
Hakam Immigration Services supports international graduates from PGWP eligibility review to application preparation and permanent residence planning.
Eligibility Review
We confirm whether your institution, program, study history, timing, and status support a PGWP application.
Application Preparation
We help prepare the forms, documents, and supporting explanations needed for a complete application.
Timing Review
We help you understand the application window, permit expiry issues, and whether you may work while waiting.
Passport Strategy
We review whether passport expiry may limit your PGWP length and what to consider before filing.
Work to PR Planning
We connect your PGWP work experience to Express Entry, CEC, PNP, and other permanent residence pathways.
Long-Term Support
We help you plan before the PGWP expires so you are not forced into last-minute immigration decisions.
Common questions
PGWP Questions
answered.
Can I work while my PGWP application is being processed?
Does my school qualify for PGWP?
Can I get a PGWP if I studied online?
Can I extend or renew my PGWP?
How does a PGWP help with permanent residence?
Which consultation should I book?
Ready to apply for your PGWP?
Book a Work Permit Consultation with Hakam Immigration Services to review your PGWP eligibility, prepare your application, and plan your pathway from graduation to permanent residence.
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