Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Canada 2026: Complete Guide for Filipino Students

If you are a Filipino student studying in Canada, the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is your bridge between graduation and permanent residence. It allows you to stay and work in Canada with an open work permit after completing your studies at an eligible Canadian institution.

But the rules have changed significantly. Starting November 1, 2024, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) introduced new language requirements and field of study restrictions that affect who qualifies for a PGWP. For 2026, IRCC has also frozen the list of eligible programs, meaning no fields of study will be added or removed this year.

This guide covers everything Filipino students need to know about the PGWP in 2026, including the updated eligibility rules, new language requirements, application process, processing times, and the pathways from PGWP to permanent residence.

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

A Post-Graduation Work Permit is an open work permit issued to international students who have graduated from an eligible designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada. Unlike employer-specific work permits, a PGWP allows you to work for any employer in Canada, in any occupation, for the duration of the permit.

The PGWP is a one-time opportunity. You can only receive one PGWP in your lifetime. This makes it critically important to understand the rules before you apply and to use the work experience you gain strategically toward permanent residence.

PGWP Eligibility Requirements (2026 Updated Rules)

The PGWP eligibility requirements changed substantially in late 2024. Whether the new rules apply to you depends on your lock-in date — the date you submitted your study permit application.

Basic Requirements (All Applicants)

Regardless of when you applied for your study permit, you must meet these baseline requirements:

1. Completed a program of at least 8 months in duration at a PGWP-eligible DLI
2. Maintained full-time student status in every academic semester (part-time in final semester is acceptable)
3. Received a letter or official notification confirming you completed your program and are eligible to receive your credential
4. Applied within 180 days of receiving your final marks or transcript
5. Had a valid study permit when you applied, or the study permit expired during the 180-day window

Who Is NOT Eligible

You cannot get a PGWP if:

• You have already received a PGWP in the past
• You studied English as a Second Language (ESL) or French as a Second Language (FSL) only
• You took general interest or self-improvement courses
• You received a Global Affairs Canada (GAC) scholarship that requires you to return to your home country
• You completed more than 50% of your program through distance learning (with limited exceptions)
• You graduated from a non-Canadian institution operating in Canada
• You attended a DLI that is not PGWP-eligible

New Requirements for Study Permits Submitted On or After November 1, 2024

If your study permit application was submitted on or after November 1, 2024, you must also meet two additional requirements:

1. Language proficiency requirement (see next section)
2. Field of study requirement (for non-degree programs — see below)

New Language Requirements (CLB 7 and CLB 5)

One of the biggest changes to the PGWP program is the introduction of mandatory language testing. Previously, there was no language requirement to get a PGWP. Now, if your study permit was submitted on or after November 1, 2024, you must prove your English or French proficiency.

Language Levels by Program Type

Program Type	Minimum Language Level	Field of Study Required?
Bachelor’s degree	CLB 7 (English) or NCLC 7 (French)	No
Master’s degree	CLB 7 (English) or NCLC 7 (French)	No
Doctoral degree (PhD)	CLB 7 (English) or NCLC 7 (French)	No
Other university programs	CLB 7 (English) or NCLC 7 (French)	Yes
College diploma or certificate	CLB 5 (English) or NCLC 5 (French)	Yes
Polytechnic programs	CLB 5 (English) or NCLC 5 (French)	Yes
Flight school graduates	Exempt	Exempt

What CLB 7 and CLB 5 Mean in Test Scores

You must achieve the minimum score in all four language skills (reading, writing, listening, speaking). Here is what CLB 7 and CLB 5 translate to on accepted tests:

Test	Skill	CLB 5 (College)	CLB 7 (University)
IELTS General	Listening	5.0	6.0
IELTS General	Reading	4.0	6.0
IELTS General	Writing	5.0	6.0
IELTS General	Speaking	5.0	6.0
CELPIP-General	All skills	5	7
PTE Core	Listening	39	50
PTE Core	Reading	33	50
PTE Core	Writing	51	59
PTE Core	Speaking	42	59

Field of Study Restrictions (2026 Frozen List)

The second major change is the field of study requirement. If your study permit was submitted on or after November 1, 2024, and you graduated from a non-degree program (diploma, certificate, post-graduate certificate), your program must be on IRCC’s list of eligible fields of study.

Who Needs to Meet the Field of Study Requirement?

• College diploma and certificate graduates — must be in an eligible field
• Post-graduate certificate/diploma graduates — must be in an eligible field
• Other university non-degree programs — must be in an eligible field

Who Is Exempt?

• Bachelor’s degree graduates — exempt from field of study requirement
• Master’s degree graduates — exempt
• Doctoral (PhD) graduates — exempt
• Study permit submitted before November 1, 2024 — exempt (grandfathered)

Eligible Fields of Study (Categories)

IRCC lists over 1,100 eligible programs organized by CIP (Classification of Instructional Programs) codes. These programs are concentrated in areas of long-term labour shortages in Canada:

Category	Example Programs
Healthcare	Nursing, medical laboratory, pharmacy technician, dental hygiene, paramedicine
STEM	Computer science, engineering technology, information technology, biotechnology
Skilled Trades	Electrical, plumbing, welding, carpentry, HVAC, automotive
Agriculture & Agri-food	Animal sciences, crop production, horticulture, food science
Education	Early childhood education, teacher education, special education
Social Services	Social work, community services, counselling
Transport & Infrastructure	Aviation, heavy equipment, logistics

Private College (Curriculum Licensing) Restrictions

Programs delivered by a private career college on behalf of a public institution (curriculum licensing arrangements) are no longer PGWP-eligible, except in limited grandfathered cases:

• Students who started on or before May 15, 2024 (same province as the public institution) may still qualify
• Students who started on or before January 31, 2023 (different province) may still qualify
• All other private college curriculum-licensing students are not eligible

PGWP Duration: How Long Is Your Work Permit?

The length of your PGWP depends on your program type and duration. There is a special rule for master’s degree graduates that makes the master’s pathway particularly attractive.

Program Type	Program Length	PGWP Duration
Master’s degree	8 months or more (any length)	3 years
Any eligible program	2 years or more	3 years
Any eligible program	8 months to less than 2 years	Same as program length
Any eligible program	Less than 8 months	Not eligible
Combined programs	Each 8+ months, total 2+ years	3 years

Important Notes on Duration

• Passport expiry limit: Your PGWP cannot extend beyond your passport’s expiry date. If your passport expires before your PGWP period ends, the permit will only be issued up to the passport expiry date. You can apply to extend later with a renewed passport.
• Distance learning deduction: For study permits submitted on or after September 1, 2024, time spent studying online outside Canada will be deducted from your PGWP duration.
• 50% in-class rule: You must complete at least 50% of your program in-person in Canada. Failing this means you are not eligible for a PGWP.

PGWP Application Process: Step-by-Step

The PGWP application must be submitted online through your IRCC online account. Paper applications are no longer accepted. Here is the step-by-step process:

Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility

Before applying, verify that:

• Your DLI is PGWP-eligible (check the DLI list)
• Your program meets the minimum 8-month duration
• You maintained full-time status throughout
• You are within 180 days of receiving your final marks
• You meet the language and field of study requirements (if applicable)

Step 2: Gather Your Documents

You will need the following documents:

• Completion letter from your DLI confirming you have met all program requirements
• Official transcripts showing all courses and final grades
• Valid passport (renew if expiring soon to maximize PGWP duration)
• Current study permit (copy)
• Language test results (if study permit submitted on or after November 1, 2024)
• Digital photo meeting IRCC specifications
• Proof of payment for application fees

Step 3: Apply Online

1. Log in to your IRCC online account
2. Select “Apply for a work permit”
3. Answer the eligibility questions
4. Upload all required documents
5. Pay the application fee ( CAD)
6. Pay biometrics fee if required ( CAD)
7. Submit the application

Step 4: Provide Biometrics (If Required)

If you have not already provided biometrics, you will receive a Biometrics Instruction Letter (BIL). You must visit a designated biometrics collection site within 30 days. In Canada, these are Service Canada locations.

Step 5: Wait for Processing

Processing times vary. While you wait, you can work under implied status (see below). Check your IRCC account regularly for updates or requests for additional documents.

Processing Times and Fees

Item	Cost (CAD)
Work permit processing fee
Open work permit holder fee
Total application fee
Biometrics fee (if required)
Total with biometrics

Processing time: PGWP applications submitted from inside Canada currently take approximately 80 to 180 days (3 to 6 months). Processing times can vary depending on the volume of applications and whether additional documents are requested. Check the IRCC processing times page for the most current estimates.

Working While Your PGWP Application Is Processing (Implied Status)

One of the most common questions Filipino students ask is: “Can I work while waiting for my PGWP?” The answer is yes, under the concept of implied status.

What Is Implied Status?

If you apply for a PGWP before your study permit expires, you are considered to have “implied status.” This means you can continue to work under the conditions of your study permit (including any co-op or off-campus work authorization) until a decision is made on your PGWP application.

After PGWP Expires: Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP)

If your PGWP is about to expire and you have a pending permanent residence application, you may be eligible for a Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP). This permit allows you to continue working while IRCC processes your PR application. You must have received an acknowledgement of receipt (AOR) for your PR application to be eligible for a BOWP.

PGWP to Permanent Residence: Your PR Pathways

The PGWP is not just a work permit — it is the foundation of your pathway to permanent residence. The Canadian work experience you gain on a PGWP is recognized by multiple immigration programs. Here are the most common pathways for Filipino graduates:

1. Canadian Experience Class (CEC) via Express Entry

The CEC is the most popular PR pathway for PGWP holders. Requirements:

• 1 year of skilled Canadian work experience (NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3) gained within the last 3 years
• Language proficiency: CLB 7 for NOC TEER 0/1, CLB 5 for NOC TEER 2/3
• No education requirement (your Canadian credential is a bonus for CRS points)
• Processing time: approximately 6 months

With a Canadian degree and Canadian work experience, Filipino graduates often score competitively in Express Entry draws. A Canadian credential adds up to 30 CRS points, and Canadian work experience adds up to 80 CRS points.

2. Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP)

Most provinces have PNP streams specifically designed for international graduates. A provincial nomination adds 600 CRS points to your Express Entry profile, virtually guaranteeing an invitation to apply.

Popular PNP streams for PGWP holders include:

• Ontario: OINP Masters Graduate Stream, OINP Human Capital Priorities
• British Columbia: BC PNP International Graduate Stream
• Alberta: AAIP Alberta Opportunity Stream
• Manitoba: MPNP International Education Stream
• Saskatchewan: SINP International Skilled Worker

3. Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)

If you have at least 1 year of continuous skilled work experience (not necessarily Canadian), you may also qualify under the FSWP through Express Entry. Canadian education and work experience earned during your PGWP will significantly boost your CRS score.

Strategic Tips for Filipino Students

• Start accumulating skilled work experience immediately after graduation. CEC requires only 1 year of experience.
• Choose employment in a NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 occupation to qualify for CEC.
• Keep your language test results current — you will need them for both the PGWP and Express Entry.
• Create your Express Entry profile early to receive CRS score estimates and monitor draw thresholds.
• Consider a PNP nomination for the 600-point CRS bonus if your general CRS score is below draw thresholds.

Common Mistakes and Reasons for PGWP Refusal

PGWP applications can be refused. Avoid these common mistakes:

1. Missing the 180-Day Deadline

You must apply within 180 days of receiving your final marks or completion letter. This is a hard deadline. If you miss it, you lose your PGWP eligibility permanently. Mark the date and set reminders.

2. Applying with an Expired Study Permit

Your study permit must have been valid at some point during the 180-day window after program completion. If it expired before you finished your program, you may have a problem. Apply as soon as possible after graduation to avoid complications.

3. Insufficient Language Test Scores

If you need CLB 7 but score CLB 6 in one band, your application will be refused. Take a practice test before your official exam and allow time for a retake if needed.

4. Graduating from an Ineligible Program

Not all DLIs are PGWP-eligible. Private colleges with curriculum licensing arrangements are particularly risky. Verify eligibility before enrolling, not after graduating.

5. Dropping to Part-Time Status

You must maintain full-time status in every semester except your final one. Dropping courses to fall below full-time can disqualify you. If you are struggling academically, speak to your institution’s international student advisor before reducing your course load.

6. Studying Too Much Online (Outside Canada)

If more than 50% of your program was completed through distance learning, you are not eligible. For study permits issued after September 1, 2024, time spent studying online outside Canada is deducted from your PGWP duration.

Tips for Filipino Students in Canada

As a law office that serves the Filipino-Canadian community, we understand the unique challenges and advantages Filipino students face in the Canadian immigration system. Here are our recommendations:

Choosing the Right Program

• Degree programs (bachelor’s, master’s) are the safest choice. They are exempt from field of study restrictions and only require CLB 7, which most Filipino students can achieve.
• If choosing a college diploma, verify your program’s CIP code is on the PGWP-eligible list before enrolling. Focus on healthcare, STEM, trades, or education programs.
• Avoid private colleges that deliver programs through curriculum licensing arrangements with public institutions — these are no longer PGWP-eligible.
• A master’s degree is the strongest pathway: even a short 8-month program gives you a 3-year PGWP, exemption from field of study rules, and higher CRS points for Express Entry.

While You Study

• Maintain full-time status every semester (except your last one)
• Work part-time to gain Canadian experience and build professional networks
• Prepare your language test early — do not wait until after graduation
• Keep all documents organized: transcripts, study permits, enrollment letters, completion letters
• Renew your passport well in advance of graduation to maximize your PGWP duration

After Graduation

• Apply for the PGWP as soon as possible after receiving your completion letter
• Target skilled occupations (NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3) for your first job to qualify for CEC
• Create your Express Entry profile once you have work experience to start receiving invitations
• Connect with the Filipino community — Filipino professional networks, community organizations, and Filipino-Canadian lawyers can provide valuable support and guidance

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I apply for a PGWP from outside Canada?

Generally, you should be in Canada when you apply. If you left Canada temporarily and your study was primarily in-person in Canada, you may still be eligible. However, if you completed more than 50% of your program outside Canada through distance learning, you are not eligible.

What if I did two shorter programs instead of one long program?

You can combine two programs to meet the 2-year threshold for a 3-year PGWP, provided each program is at least 8 months long, each is from a PGWP-eligible DLI, and you had a valid study permit for each program. The combined program length determines your PGWP duration.

Do the new language and field of study rules apply to me if I started studying before November 2024?

It depends on when you submitted your study permit application. If your study permit application was submitted before November 1, 2024, the new language and field of study requirements do not apply to you, even if you are graduating in 2026 or later.

I am in a business diploma program. Am I still eligible?

Most general business and management diploma programs are no longer PGWP-eligible for students whose study permits were submitted on or after November 1, 2024. Check your specific program’s CIP code against the IRCC eligible fields list. If you submitted your study permit before November 1, 2024, you are grandfathered and still eligible.

Can my spouse or common-law partner work while I am on a PGWP?

Your spouse or common-law partner may be eligible for an open work permit while you hold a valid PGWP, but eligibility depends on your NOC level and specific circumstances. Changes to spousal open work permit eligibility have occurred in recent years, so consult an immigration lawyer for current rules.

What happens if my PGWP application is refused?

If your PGWP application is refused, you cannot reapply (since you can only receive one PGWP). However, you may have other options depending on the reason for refusal, such as applying for a different type of work permit. It is critical to get professional legal advice immediately if your PGWP is refused.

Can I extend my PGWP?

Generally, PGWPs cannot be extended. However, some temporary measures have been introduced in past years allowing one-time extensions in specific circumstances. As of 2026, there is no general PGWP extension policy in place. If your PGWP is expiring, focus on transitioning to permanent residence or applying for a Bridging Open Work Permit if you have a pending PR application.

What is the difference between a PGWP and a regular open work permit?

A PGWP is a specific type of open work permit available only to graduates of eligible Canadian programs. Like other open work permits, it allows you to work for any employer. The key difference is that you can only get a PGWP once, it is tied to your educational program, and it has specific eligibility rules (program length, DLI eligibility, etc.).

How JCA Law Office Can Help

At JCA Law Office Professional Corporation, we specialize in serving the Filipino-Canadian community with immigration, family law, and legal services. Our team understands the unique needs of Filipino students navigating the Canadian immigration system.

We can help you with:

• PGWP application review and filing — ensuring your application is complete, accurate, and submitted on time
• Eligibility assessment — determining whether you meet the new language and field of study requirements
• PGWP refusal response — advising on your options if your application is refused
• Express Entry and PNP applications — transitioning from PGWP to permanent residence
• Bridging Open Work Permit — maintaining your work authorization while your PR application is processed
• Spousal work permit applications — helping your partner obtain work authorization

Related Resources

Official Government Resources:

• IRCC – About the Post-Graduation Work Permit
• IRCC – PGWP Eligibility Requirements
• IRCC – PGWP Field of Study Requirement
• IRCC – Check Processing Times

Last updated: February 2026. Immigration rules change frequently. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Contact JCA Law Office for advice specific to your situation.