Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

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Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

Expert Guidance for International Students Applying for PGWP in Canada or From Outside Canada

Are you an international student in Canada looking to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) after completing your studies? Confused about IRCC’s compliance rules, the 150-day policy, or how to restore your status if it’s expired?

At Lakes Land Immigration, based in Winnipeg, Manitoba, we help students secure their PGWP quickly and legally, whether you’re in Canada, outside Canada, or facing complications like status loss or previous refusals.

📍 Search “PGWP consultant near me” or “post graduate work permit help Winnipeg” – and find Lakes Land Immigration ranked at the top on Google Maps.

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

The PGWP is an open work permit issued by IRCC to international students who graduate from eligible Canadian post-secondary institutions. It allows you to work in any field, for any employer in Canada.

It is a key step toward gaining Canadian work experience and applying for Permanent Residency (PR) through Express Entry or provincial nominee programs (PNPs).

PGWP Eligibility Criteria (2025)

To be eligible for a PGWP in Canada, you must meet the following requirements:

  1. Completed a full-time program of at least 8 months at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
  2. The program must lead to a degree, diploma, or certificate
  3. Maintained full-time student status during the program (exceptions apply)
  4. Applied within 180 days (formerly 150 days) after receiving official confirmation (transcript, completion letter)
  5. Graduated from a PGWP-eligible institution and program

Need help verifying your PGWP field of study eligibility? Lakes Land Immigration can assess your case for free.

Documents Required for PGWP Application

Here are the mandatory documents you’ll need to submit with your PGWP application:

  1. Letter of Completion from your college or university
  2. Final Transcript (official or unofficial)
  3. Valid Passport (must be valid for the entire work permit period)
  4. Proof of valid status or restoration if applicable
  5. Digital photo and biometrics (if not previously submitted)
  6. Payment receipt for PGWP application fee

We ensure all documents are submitted correctly to avoid delays or refusals.

How to Apply for PGWP – Inside and Outside Canada

PGWP Application in Canada (Online)

Most students apply online while inside Canada on a valid study permit or within the 180-day period after program completion.

  1. Create an IRCC account
  2. Upload documents
  3. Pay the $255 CAD fee ($155 for work permit + $100 open work permit holder fee)

Wait for IRCC decision (usually 2–5 months)

 

PGWP Application from Outside Canada

If you left Canada after completing your studies, you can still apply for PGWP from your home country as long as you meet eligibility and apply within 180 days of program completion.

Lakes Land Immigration provides remote application services for students from India, Nigeria, Philippines, UAE, and more.

Lost Status? Here's How to Restore and Apply for PGWP

If your study permit expired and you did not apply for PGWP in time, you may still be able to restore your status and get a work permit.

How We Help:

  1. Assess your IRCC deadlines and violation risk
  2. Submit a status restoration application
  3. Include Letter of Explanation with PGWP application
  4. Monitor IRCC processing and keep you compliant

Act fast—restoration must be done within 90 days of losing status.

PGWP Field of Study Eligibility – Are You Covered?

Not all programs or schools are PGWP-eligible. Your program and institution must be listed on IRCC’s Designated Learning Institution (DLI) list.

Some private colleges, online courses, or short programs may not qualify you.

PGWP-Eligible Fields of Study:

  1. Health Care & Nursing
  2. Engineering & IT
  3. Business & Accounting
  4. Construction & Skilled Trades
  5. Early Childhood Education
  6. Data Analytics, AI & Cybersecurity
  7. Hospitality & Culinary Arts

Want to switch to a PGWP-eligible program? We can help with study permit amendments and school transfers.

PGWP Application Checklist

Here’s what you’ll need:

✔ Letter of Completion
 ✔ Transcript
 ✔ Valid Passport
 ✔ IMM5710 Form
 ✔ Digital Photo
 ✔ Proof of Status / Restoration Application
 ✔ Statement of Purpose (if required)
 ✔ PGWP Fee Receipt

Lakes Land Immigration prepares a fully compliant application with IRCC’s latest guidelines.

Why Choose Lakes Land Immigration?

  1. Licensed Immigration Consultants
  2. 10+ years specializing in student and work permits
  3. Expertise in PGWP, Restoration, and IRCC Compliance
  4. Detailed review of PGWP eligibility by program and college
  5. Global service – Canada, India, Nigeria, Philippines, UAE & more
  6. 5-Star Google Reviews from happy students

 

 

Why Choose Us

Work with regulated Canadian immigration consultants (RCICs) who know the law and care about your case.

We tailor every application to your unique background, goals, and eligibility

No hidden steps or fees—just honest advice and regular updates throughout.

Years of experience and attention to detail mean higher approval chances.

From consultation to post-arrival, we’re with you every step of the journey.