PGWP eligibility — post-2024 reforms
Overview
The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) allows international graduates from eligible Canadian designated learning institutions (DLIs) to work in Canada after completing their studies. The PGWP is a key pathway to permanent residence through the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). Following reforms announced in 2024, PGWP eligibility for college graduates now requires that the program of study align with a specified field of study in a labour-shortage occupation area. University graduates at the bachelor's level and above are not subject to the field-of-study requirement.
The 2024 reforms were introduced as part of broader measures to reduce the number of international students in Canada and refocus the student pathway on genuine study and labour market needs. The reforms include a cap on new study permits, stricter DLI eligibility, and the field-of-study requirement for college PGWP applicants.
Note: PGWP policy changes frequently. This page reflects the rules as at May 2026. Applicants should verify current rules on the IRCC website.
Legal basis
- IRPR s 205(c)(ii) — the regulatory basis for PGWP issuance as an LMIA-exempt open work permit
- IRCC Ministerial Instructions — the detailed eligibility criteria for DLIs and fields of study are set by Ministerial Instructions, not the IRPR itself
How it works
Who is eligible for a PGWP?
To be eligible for a PGWP, the applicant must:
- Have graduated from an eligible DLI in Canada
- Have completed a program of at least 8 months in duration
- Hold a valid study permit (or have held one) at graduation
- Apply within 180 days of receiving the final marks/graduation document confirming completion
Field-of-study requirement (post-2024)
For college graduates (public college diploma programs), the program of study must be in a field associated with labour shortages. IRCC has designated fields including:
- Agriculture and agri-food
- Healthcare (nursing, PSW, paramedicine, dental hygiene, etc.)
- STEM (engineering technology, computer science, environmental science)
- Trades (electricians, plumbers, welders, carpenters)
- Transport (aviation, logistics)
College graduates in other fields (e.g., business, humanities, arts) may no longer be eligible for a PGWP under the post-2024 rules. Applicants should verify whether their specific program CIP code falls within the eligible field list.
For university graduates (bachelor's degree and above), no field-of-study restriction applies. University graduates from eligible DLIs in any field remain eligible for a PGWP.
Duration of the PGWP
The PGWP duration is:
- Equal to the length of the program of study, up to a maximum of 3 years
- For programs of less than 2 years: PGWP valid for the length of the program
- For programs of 2 years or more: PGWP valid for 3 years
A PGWP cannot be renewed. Once it expires, the graduate must obtain another type of work authorisation.
Pathway to permanent residence
PGWP holders who work in TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 occupations in Canada accumulate Canadian work experience qualifying for the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) and, through CEC, for Express Entry. The PGWP is explicitly designed as a bridge between study and permanent residence.