Choose a Canadian program for academic and career fit, not as a shortcut to permanent residence. Some graduates of eligible programs may qualify for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), but eligibility depends on the exact institution, campus, program, credential, language requirements, study-permit application date, and current IRCC rules. A study permit or PGWP does not guarantee employment, an Express Entry invitation, or permanent residence. Shemot Education Abroad helps families compare program fit, costs, and current requirements before applying.
The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is an open work permit available to some graduates of eligible programs. Eligibility depends on the institution, program, language requirements, field of study where applicable, and current IRCC rules. Permit length depends on your circumstances and cannot exceed passport validity. Check IRCC's current eligibility guidance before selecting a program.
Immigration eligibility depends on the program, qualification, occupation, work history, and current criteria. Compare the exact program and pathway requirements; neither a college diploma nor a university degree guarantees permanent residence.
Family members may be able to accompany you, but eligibility for a spouse's open work permit depends on the student's program and the rules in force when you apply. Check current IRCC guidance before making plans.
Compare provinces by program availability, cost, local support, and current provincial immigration criteria relevant to your profile. Program availability and nomination requirements can change; verify them with the province and IRCC.
Processing times vary with application volume and individual circumstances. Check IRCC's current estimate for your application location and apply with enough time before the program start date.
No. A school can be a DLI without every campus or program being PGWP-eligible. Check the exact institution, campus, program, credential, and CIP code where required. Requirements also depend on when you applied for your study permit, so verify the current IRCC DLI list and PGWP rules before enrolling.
Under current IRCC rules, graduates of bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees generally need CLB/NCLC 7 in all four language abilities and have no field-of-study requirement. Other university graduates generally need CLB/NCLC 7; college and other non-university graduates generally need CLB/NCLC 5. Some non-degree programs must also meet the eligible-field requirement, depending on the study-permit application date. Exemptions and program-specific rules apply; check IRCC for your case.
An eligible master's program that is at least 8 months long (or 900 hours for a Quebec program) may qualify for a three-year PGWP, even if the master's is shorter than two years, provided all other criteria are met. This master's rule does not apply to certificate or diploma programs, and passport validity can shorten a permit. Confirm current details with IRCC.
IRCC currently lists French-language proficiency, healthcare and social services, STEM, trades, education, transport, and selected physician, senior-manager, and researcher categories requiring Canadian work experience. Some occupation-based categories require at least 12 months of qualifying work experience in the past three years. Studying a related subject alone is not enough, and an invitation or permanent residence is not guaranteed.