Top 10 PGWP Mistakes International Students Must Avoid

10 Common PGWP Mistakes That Can Jeopardize Your Post-Graduation Work Permit Application

Graduating from a Canadian college or university is a huge milestone—but if you’re an international student, it’s just one step on your journey. For many, the next goal is to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which lets you gain Canadian work experience and potentially transition to permanent residency down the road.

But here’s the thing: PGWP applications can be surprisingly tricky. Even small errors or misunderstandings can lead to refusals. And with recent policy changes, it’s more important than ever to stay informed and plan ahead.

Let’s walk through the most common missteps international graduates make when applying for a PGWP—and how you can avoid them.

Key Highlights

• Choose a PGWP-eligible program: Not every Canadian program qualifies—check the latest IRCC-approved list.
• Maintain full-time student status: You must study full-time every semester, except your final one.
• Apply within 180 days: Late submissions are a common reason for refusal.
• New language test requirement: Starting November 1, 2024, you must submit valid English or French test scores.
• Ensure your passport is valid: Your PGWP can’t be issued past your passport’s expiry date.
• Be mindful of working rules: Unauthorized work can lead to disqualification.

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

The PGWP is an open work permit available to international students who graduate from eligible Canadian post-secondary institutions. It lets you work full-time for virtually any employer in Canada and is valid for up to three years, depending on the length of your study program.

It’s a valuable opportunity—not just for gaining experience but also for paving the way to permanent residency through programs like Express Entry or Manitoba’s PNP.

Top 10 PGWP Mistakes That Could Lead to Refusal

1. Choosing an Ineligible Study Program

Not every academic program makes you eligible for a PGWP. As of 2024, if you’re not in a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral program, your program must be on IRCC’s approved list of Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) codes.

IRCC has recently updated this list—adding 119 fields and removing 178, although the removals won’t take effect until 2026. If your program isn’t on the approved list, you may be ineligible for a PGWP, even if you graduate from a designated learning institution (DLI).

Tip: Always verify the CIP code of your program before applying. You can do this through Statistics Canada’s CIP database.

2. Not Maintaining Full-Time Student Status

You must be enrolled full-time for every semester of your program (except the final one) to qualify for a PGWP. Even one part-time semester early in your studies could jeopardize your eligibility.

Tip: Double-check with your school what qualifies as full-time and make sure you don’t accidentally drop below the required course load.

3. Working Without Authorization

International students are allowed to work off-campus up to 24 hours per week under current rules—but only if your study permit says so. Working more hours or without proper authorization is considered a violation of your permit conditions.

Tip: If you’re unsure about your work rights or what’s listed on your permit, speak to your school’s international student office before taking any job.

4. Completing Your Program from Outside Canada

During the pandemic, Canada allowed students to count online studies toward their PGWP. But as of September 1, 2024, that flexibility ends for new students. You must now complete your studies in Canada to be eligible.

5. Not Taking a Language Test

Starting November 1, 2024, international graduates must provide proof of English or French language proficiency. This is a new requirement, and many students won’t be aware of it.

The minimum required scores are:

• CLB 5 for most college diploma programs
• CLB 7 for bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral programs

Accepted English tests: CELPIP, IELTS (General Training), PTE Core.

Accepted French tests: TEF Canada, TCF Canada.

Tip: Make sure your language test scores are less than two years old when you submit your application.

6. Applying Too Late

You must submit your PGWP application within 180 days of receiving written confirmation that you’ve completed your program. Miss that window, and you’re out of luck.

Tip: Keep a close eye on your school’s communication and request your transcript or completion letter as soon as possible.

7. Submitting an Incomplete Application

PGWP applications must be submitted online (unless you qualify for special exceptions), and you’ll need to include:

• Proof of graduation (degree, transcript, or official letter)
• Confirmation of full-time student status
• Language test results
• Proof of eligible program field
• Medical exam (if required)

Tip: Review your application thoroughly before submitting. Missing documents can lead to delays or outright refusals.

8. Having an Expired or Soon-to-Expire Passport

Your PGWP can’t be issued for longer than your passport is valid. If your passport expires soon, your work permit will be shorter—and you’ll need to reapply later to get the full duration.

Tip: Renew your passport before submitting your PGWP application to avoid unnecessary paperwork and complications.

9. Not Proving Temporary Resident Intent

Even if you plan to apply for permanent residence later, you still need to show immigration officers that you intend to leave Canada when your temporary status expires. This is known as “dual intent.”

Tip: Include a letter of explanation and documents showing ties to your home country, like family, property, or a return ticket.

10. Inadmissibility to Canada

Students can be deemed inadmissible for various reasons, including:

• Medical issues
• Financial instability
• Criminal records
• Security concerns
• Misrepresentation or administrative violations

Even having a family member who is inadmissible can impact your case.

Tip: If you think you might have an issue, it’s wise to speak with an immigration consultant or lawyer before applying.

Who’s Eligible for a PGWP?

Here’s a quick checklist to confirm your eligibility:

• You graduated from a PGWP-eligible program at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
• Your program was at least 8 months long (or 900 hours for Quebec)
• You maintained full-time status in every semester (except possibly the last)
• You’re applying within 180 days of completing your program
• Your study permit was valid during the 180-day window

Final Thoughts

Applying for a PGWP is a big step—and one that deserves careful attention. With new rules and stricter requirements, it’s more important than ever to understand the process and ensure you meet all the criteria.

If you’re unsure about your eligibility or just want an extra pair of eyes on your application, don’t hesitate to reach out for help.

Ready to take the next step? Schedule a free consultation to get expert guidance on your PGWP application and post-graduation options in Canada.

And while you’re here, check out our guide on how to apply for permanent residency after your PGWP—because your Canadian journey doesn’t have to end after graduation!