Ten Common Pitfalls That Could Derail Your Post-Graduation Work Permit Application
Graduating from a Canadian post-secondary institution opens up the opportunity to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) — a flexible, open work permit that allows international graduates to work for most employers in Canada and lays a clear pathway toward permanent residence. However, recent regulatory changes and evolving eligibility criteria have underscored how even seemingly minor missteps can result in refusal. Planning ahead and understanding the rules is essential.
Below are the ten most significant factors that applicants should watch out for when preparing their PGWP application.
1. Enrolling in an Ineligible Study Program
Not all study programs qualify for a PGWP. Starting in 2024, non-degree programs must be listed under eligible Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) codes. Graduates of programs not on the list will be ineligible, regardless of their other credentials or study permit status.
2. Failing to Maintain Full-Time Student Status
To qualify for a PGWP, you must remain a full-time student in Canada during every term of your program — except for the final term. Switching to part-time study (outside the final term) can invalidate your eligibility.
3. Working Without Proper Authorization
Working beyond the conditions of your study permit — for instance, more than permitted hours, or while your status is not valid — can compromise your eligibility and lead to refusal of your PGWP.
4. Completing Your Program While Outside Canada
The temporary online-study flexibility introduced during the pandemic no longer applies for students who began their programs on or after September 1, 2024. Completing a program entirely outside Canada now may disqualify you from a PGWP.
5. Failing to Take the Required Language Test
As of November 1, 2024, language proficiency in either English or French is required:
- For non-degree programs: Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 5
- For bachelor’s, master’s or doctoral programs: CLB 7
Failing to submit valid language test results within the required timeframe will likely result in a refusal.
6. Applying Late for the PGWP
You must submit your PGWP application within 180 days after getting official proof of program completion (e.g., transcript, letter from institution). Late submissions are high-risk for rejection.
7. Submitting an Incomplete Application
Missing key documents — such as confirmation of program completion, proof of full-time enrolment, language test results, proof of eligible field of study, or a valid medical exam where required — can lead to delays or outright refusal.
8. Passport Expiry or Short Remaining Validity
A PGWP cannot extend beyond your passport’s expiry date. If your passport expires soon, you may receive a shorter work permit period or must renew your passport first — failing to do so risks losing your maintained status.
9. Failing to Demonstrate Genuine Temporary Resident Intent
Although Canada allows “dual intent” (temporary status while planning permanent residence), you still need to show that you will respect the terms of your PGWP. Lack of evidence of genuine intent can lead to refusal.
10. Being Inadmissible to Canada
Inadmissibility can result from issues such as: misrepresentation; criminal history; medical concerns; financial insufficiency; or inadmissible family members. Any violation of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA) could deny eligibility for a PGWP.
How to Ensure Your PGWP Application Succeeds
- Verify your study program’s eligibility (especially for non-degree programs) and check the CIP-code list.
- Maintain full-time student status at your Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada.
- Adhere strictly to work-permit conditions while studying.
- Complete your program in Canada if you started after September 1, 2024.
- Take a valid English or French language test soon after finishing your program.
- Submit your PGWP application within 180 days of receiving your completion letter or transcript.
- Renew your passport in time so it covers the full PGWP period you are eligible for.
- Gather documentation to show you will comply with permit conditions and intend to follow the program’s rules.
- Ensure you remain admissible and avoid any misrepresentation or competition with IRPA.
- Consider consulting with an immigration professional to audit your application before submission.
For a consultation about Immigration options, reach out to the CAD IMMIGRATION today!
