What’s next after getting a Canada Study Permit? Well, if you want to stay in Canada longer after graduating from your program or degree, you can get a post-graduate work permit. Read how you can apply for a Canada Post Graduate Work Permit for Filipinos.

A PGWP is an open work permit that allows you to apply for any job in Canada, and it’s not job-specific. Having good work experience will help you gain permanent residency through programs like Provincial Nomination Program, Federal Skilled Worker, or Canadian Experience Class. Check more details in this article.

Other Articles You can Read:

What Is A Post Graduate Work Permit?

As the name suggests, it’s a Work Permit for international students who have graduated from a Designated Learning Institution in Canada who wants to stay for work. Eventually, those who have a PGWP can convert it to a Resident Permit.

The PGWPs are Open Work Permits. You can work for any employer in Canada and any place you want without having a Labour Market Impact Assessment. This can range from 8 months to three years, depending on the duration of your study.

After a Filipino student permit holder graduates from their school, they can apply for a PGWP within 180 days after getting marks. Please note that not all schools have PGWP; if you want to know if the school you enrolled at is qualified, check here.

How to Apply for a Study Permit in the Philippines to Study in Canada 01.png

How To Be Eligible For A Canada Post Graduate Work Permit?

180 days have not yet passed after getting your final marks
This is your first time applying for a PGWP
You must complete a Study Program from a Designated Learning Institution
Studied for at least 8 months
Has a degree, diploma, or certificate after studying
Maintained full-time status as a student (except on your last semester as you may do this part-time or have approved leave)
Graduated from
- A public post-secondary school in Quebec
- A private post-secondary school in Quebec with the same rules as public schools
- A private secondary or post-secondary school in Quebec that offers qualifying programs of 900 hours or longer that leads to a DEP or ASP
- A Canadian private school that can award degrees (eg. Associate, Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctorate degree) - but only if you’re enrolled in a study program that leads to a degree authorized by the province
Your study permit is valid or has a valid visitor record

P.S. You can apply for PGWP outside Canada if your permit is no longer valid; you’ll need to restore your status for additional fees. However, it’s more cost-effective if you apply within Canada while your study permit is valid.

P.P.S. Some criteria do not make you eligible. You can check here.

Documents Required For Canada Post Graduate Work Permit Applicants

Here’s a document checklist for reference. Prepare these as you might need to upload these :

IMM 5710– Application for Change Conditions, Extend my Stay or Remain in Canada as a Worker
Passport – copies of your passport bio-page, latest Canada entry stamp, and other marked pages
Current Immigration Document – if you have one, may be your permit or visa
Final Transcript
A letter from the institution or formal notice of graduation
Work Permit Processing Fee – CAD 155
Open Work Permit Holder Fee – CAD 100

How To Apply For A Canada Post Graduate Work Permit For Filipinos

STEP 1: Gather the requirements asked, especially with the documents from the school.

STEP 2: Lodge your application online.

1. Sign in to your account here.

2. Apply online for a Post Graduate Work Permit.

3. Answer the questions asked.

STEP 3: Upload the documents required.

STEP 4: Once it’s done, you’ll need to validate it and have a barcode.

STEP 5: Pay your fees online via credit card (Visa, MasterCard, AmEx, JCB, China, Union Pay) or debit card (Visa, MasterCard, Interac).

STEP 6: Submit your application. Wait for further instructions (e.g., if there are additional documents you might need.) You can also check your status online.

STEP 7: After 35 days (normal processing time), you will receive a decision. Start working with a PGWP once you get it.

How Long Is A Canada Post Graduate Work Permit?

It will depend on how many months you have studied and your passport, whichever is shorter.

Less than 8 months – not eligible
More than 8 months but less than 2 years – the same length as your program (e.g., 1-year study = 1-year work permit)
2 years and above – may be up to 3 years

So if you are eligible for a PGWP for 3 years, but your passport expires in 2 years, you may be given only two years. You might want to renew it beforehand or wait for the notification of the immigration authorities.

Congratulations. With a Canada Post Graduate Work Permit, your dreams of being a Permanent Resident in Canada is a step closer! You can also bring your spouse or partner, too, and have him/her get an Open Work Permit. Good luck!

About the Writer

Hey, I’m Lyza! I once was a person who just imagined going to places “one day” but decided to pursue my dreams. My first travel abroad was in Japan, solo, last 2018, and I fell in love with the experience. I aim to visit 10 countries before turning 30 and 2 new places in the Philippines every year. Besides traveling, I love organizing trips, taking pictures, reading, and making new friends. Follow my adventures through my Instagram.