Stay In Canada After Graduation
Work in Canada temporarily after you graduate
To work in Canada after you graduate, you must apply for a work permit. The Post-Graduation Work Permit Program (PGWPP) allows students who have graduated from eligible Canadian designated learning institutions (DLIs) to obtain an open work permit to gain valuable Canadian work experience.
Not all programs offered at designated learning institutions (DLIs) are eligible
To learn more about the different types of credentials DLIs grant, contact the ministry of education of your province or territory.
If you graduated from a designated learning institution, and want to stay and work in Canada temporarily, you may be eligible to apply for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP).
This work experience can help you qualify for permanent residence in Canada.
Who can apply
Find out if you are eligible for a post-graduation work permit.
How to apply
Follow the steps to apply for the post-graduation work permit.
Other work permit options
You may be eligible for other types of work permits. Find out about other types of work permits that would allow you to work in Canada temporarily.
Immigrate to Canada
If you want to stay in Canada as a permanent resident after you graduate, there are a number of options. Each has its own requirements. The Come to Canada tool can help you explore your options to stay in Canada.
Express Entry
If you are an international student who recently graduated in Canada, you may be well-placed to apply for permanent residence if you:
- are familiar with Canadian society
- can take part in the Canadian economy
- have knowledge of English or French, and
- have the right work experience.
You may be eligible to apply to stay in Canada permanently under one of the immigration programs managed through the Express Entry system.
The Come to Canada tool is a good resource for those who want to explore their options to remain in Canada.
Note: We have updated the Express Entry system. You can now get extra credit for studying in Canada. This will make it easier for students to be invited to apply. Find out more about these changes and if they may affect you.