Please note this article is a quick refresher of PGWP application requirements , ineligiblities and also regarding latest changes / modification added to PGWP application. For the details understading, please check IRCC website.

General eligibility

•         completed a study program at a DLI
•         maintained full-time status as a student in Canada during each semester of your study program (exceptions: studying part-time during your final semester, taking an approved leave from studies)
•         apply for PGWP within 180 days after you graduate
•         study permit was valid at some point during the 180 days after you graduated.

 

Extra requirement starting from Nov 01, 2024: 

ü  Need to have a language test score of CLB 7 in each L/R/W/S if graduated with a bachelor’s degree, master’s degree or doctoral degree from a university

ü  Need to have a language test score of CLB 5 in each L/R/W/S if graduated from a college program or other non-university program

ü  The field of study requirement* is there for some programs except university graduates with a bachelor’s degree, master’s degree or doctoral degree.

*STEM, Agri, Education, Health Care, Trade, Transport

 

Who is not eligible for PGWP

•         already received a PGWP
•         studied English or French as a second language
•         took general interest or self-improvement courses
•         received funding or a scholarship from GAC that requires you to return to your home country after graduation
•         completed over 50% of your study program through distance learning (online courses, e-learning or correspondence)
•         completed a study program at a non-Canadian institution located in Canada
•         completed a course or program of study at a DLI that is not PGWP-eligible

 

Common refusal grounds for PGWP

•         Not Meeting Program Requirements
•         Failure to Maintain Full-Time Student Status
•         Timing of Application (did not apply with 180 days)
•         Incomplete or missing documentation
•         Previous PGWP Refusal (particularly if the prior refusal was due to eligibility requirements)
•         Violation of Immigration Rules (working without authorization or overstaying)
•         The study permit was not valid at some point during the 180 days after you graduated.
•         Field of study requirement: did not meet pre-requisite

 

Source: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/study-canada/work/after-graduation/eligibility.html

 

My other articles related to PGWP

• Can I work after 180 days if my PGWP application’s decision is still pending? Evidence and pro-tips included.
• Fake PGWP extension. Refusal and order to leave immediately. (with evidence).
• What are the common mistakes that students make which cause them PGWP refusal?
• I did not get my full validity of PGWP due to passport expiry. Can I extend it? Pro tips.
• Can I combine two programs for PGWP application in Canada? Yes / No.
• Can I study outside of Canada online while I am on PGWP / Work permit?

 

Disclaimer: None of the above statements are legal advice and are not meant to be the same for everyone. You must check the latest policy from the IRCC website before applying. Everything is stated clearly on the official website, still if you don't understand something, you can seek legal advice.

I am NOT assuring you that every information / opinion mentioned above is 100% true and updated, therefore, liability goes to you to verify if you are acting upon any of those.  

If you notice any error / mistake, please feel free to reach out to me by email: [email protected]. And I will be more than happy to cross check and modify as/if necessary.