For international students who plan to study in Canada, the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) can be an important part of planning what happens after graduation. It allows eligible graduates to gain valuable Canadian work experience after completing their studies.
One of the most common questions students ask is: How long is a Canadian PGWP?
The answer depends mainly on the length and type of your eligible study program, your level of study, and other factors such as your passport validity.
If you are considering studying in Canada, understanding the possible length of your PGWP can help you choose a program that supports your academic and career goals.
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How Long Can a Canadian PGWP Last?
A PGWP can generally be valid for up to three years, depending on the program you completed and your individual circumstances.
The length of your study program is one of the most important factors.
Generally:
- Programs between 8 months and less than 2 years may qualify for a PGWP for a period up to the length of the program.
- Programs of 2 years or longer may qualify for a PGWP of up to 3 years.
- Eligible master’s degree graduates may qualify for a 3-year PGWP, even if the master’s program is less than two years, provided the program meets the applicable requirements.
The final duration is determined by IRCC according to the applicable rules.
PGWP for an 8-Month Program
If you complete an eligible program that is at least 8 months long but less than 2 years, your PGWP may generally be issued for up to the same length as your program.
For example, if you complete an eligible 8-month program, you may receive a work permit for approximately 8 months.
Similarly, a student who completes an eligible 12-month program may receive a PGWP of up to 12 months.
This means students should not automatically expect a three-year PGWP after completing a short program.
PGWP for a 1-Year Program
A one-year eligible Canadian program may generally lead to a PGWP of up to one year.
For example, if you complete a qualifying 12-month program and meet all the applicable PGWP requirements, the work permit may be issued for a period of up to 12 months.
Students considering shorter programs should therefore think carefully about how the program length fits into
