Applying for a post-graduation work permit | Immigration and getting settled in Quebec

You can generally apply for a post-graduation work permit after you finish your studies. Although the process is relatively simple, it is important to fully understand the eligibility requirements, prepare the necessary documents, and submit your application by the deadline.

Eligibility

To obtain a PGWP, you must meet the following criteria:

Have studied full time and continuously in Canada.
Hold a diploma in an eligible field of study or a degree.

View the list of our eligible programs.
Take a language test to provide proof of your language skills.

The French Test Centre at the University of Montreal offers the TEF Canada as well as workshops to get prepared.

Also, be sure to meet the requirements outlined in your immigration documents.

To learn about all eligibility criteria and exceptions, visit the IRCC website.

Make sure that your study permit is valid

Check your spouse's eligibility

Gather the required documents

To apply for a PGWP, you will need to provide:

a proof of graduation letter (which also serves as proof of your eligible field of study)
your final transcripts
proof of your language skills.

To request your proof of graduation letter and transcripts, complete the online form. If your study permit is likely to expire before you receive these documents, contact Zone Info to find out what precautions to take.

Due to limitations in the IRCC system, proof of language proficiency must be uploaded to the “Client Information” section of your account. If you need to submit multiple documents in this section, combine them into a single file.

View the complete list of required documents

Check whether your biometrics are valid

Processing times

Applying within Canada

There is a fee for this application: see the list of fees.

Log in or create your MyCIC account by clicking “Canadian Interac Sign-In Partner” or “GCKey username and password.” Forgot your sign-in details? If you are having trouble logging in, check the help section on the loggin page or create a new account.
Click the link “Apply to come to Canada.”
Click "Visitor visa," “Study permit," and/or "Work permit."
Answer the system's questions. The answers are generally as follows:
- What would you like to do in Canada? Work
- Have you earned a degree from an eligible Canadian institution through a full-time program lasting at least eight months? Yes
- Do you have a written job offer? No
At the end of the questionnaire, you will need to upload the required documents. You must complete and submit Form IMM 5710, but you will not need to sign it.

HEC Montréal's designated learning institution number is O19359011058.

See the instruction guide

Applying from abroad

Before submitting your application

After submitting your application

While your application is being processed

After receiving your PGWP

Once you have obtained your post-graduation work permit:

Check your eligibility for the Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) for the duration of your permit's validity.
Apply for a Social Insurance Number (SIN) or renew it if necessary.
Renew your temporary resident visa to enter Canada if necessary.
Learn about your tax obligations.

Need advice or information about immigration?

It is not necessary to hire a lawyer or a consultant to get help.

If you have any questions:

Please contact us using the contact form.
Meet with a counselor for a quick consultation (5 to 10 min.) without an appointment:
- In person: Mondays and Thursdays, from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., at Zone Info in the Decelles building.
- Online (Zoom): Tuesdays and Fridays, from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
incoming [at] hec.ca (Contact the IASMS) if you are participating in an exchange program.

Applying for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP)