PGWP Updates 2026: Complete Guide
Essential information on Post-Graduation Work Permit changes, new eligibility requirements, extension rules, and critical deadlines for international students
📋 Table of Contents
🔍 Overview & Changes
✅ Eligibility & Requirements
📋 Application Process
❓ Support & Resources
📊 PGWP at a Glance
🔄 Major PGWP Changes in 2026
🚨 Critical Information
April 30, 2026 is the final deadline to apply for the special 18-month PGWP extension. This is a one-time opportunity that will not be extended.
Changes Timeline
New Extension Program Launched
IRCC introduces 18-month PGWP extensions for eligible graduates whose permits expired between January 30, 2024 and December 31, 2025.
Language Requirements Added
New minimum language proficiency requirements (CLB 5) for certain PGWP extension applicants in specific NOC categories.
Field of Study Restrictions
Enhanced focus on STEM, healthcare, and skilled trades programs for extension eligibility.
Final Extension Deadline
Last chance to apply for the special 18-month PGWP extension. No applications accepted after this date.
✅ 2026 PGWP Eligibility Requirements
✅ Standard PGWP Requirements
- Completed a program at a designated learning institution (DLI)
- Program duration of at least 8 months
- Maintained full-time student status
- Applied within 180 days of program completion
- Valid study permit at time of application
⚠️ New Extension Requirements (2026)
- PGWP expired between January 30, 2024 – December 31, 2025
- Currently in Canada with valid temporary status
- Completed program in eligible field of study
- Meet language requirements (CLB 5 minimum for some NOCs)
- Apply by April 30, 2026 deadline
⏱️ PGWP Duration by Program Length
| Program Length | PGWP Duration (Standard) | Extension Available | Total Possible Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 months – 2 years | Same as program length | Up to 18 months | Up to 3.5 years |
| 2+ years | 3 years | Up to 18 months | Up to 4.5 years |
| Multiple programs | Based on total duration | Case-by-case basis | Varies |
📋 Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Document Preparation
- Official transcripts from your institution
- Completion letter or graduation certificate
- Language test results (if required for extension)
- Passport and immigration documents
- Previous PGWP (for extension applications)
Step 2: Online Application
- Create or access your IRCC online account
- Complete the IMM 5710 form accurately
- Upload all required documents in correct format
- Pay the application fees ($255)
- Submit biometrics request (if required)
🚨 Critical Deadlines
- Standard PGWP: Apply within 180 days of program completion
- Extension Applications: Must apply by April 30, 2026
- Biometrics: Complete within 30 days of request
- Additional Documents: Respond within specified timeframe
📄 Required Documents
- Passport (all pages including blank pages)
- Official transcripts from your educational institution
- Completion/graduation letter
- Previous PGWP (for extension applications only)
- Current immigration status documents
- Language test results (if applicable for your field)
- Digital photo (if biometrics are required)
- Proof of payment for application fees
🎓 Eligible Fields of Study for Extensions
| Category | Fields of Study | Language Requirement | Extension Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| Healthcare | Medicine, Nursing, Pharmacy, Dental, Veterinary | CLB 7 | 18 months |
| STEM | Engineering, Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics | CLB 5 | 18 months |
| Skilled Trades | Carpentry, Plumbing, Electrical, Welding | CLB 5 | 18 months |
| Agriculture | Agriculture, Food Science, Veterinary Medicine | CLB 5 | 18 months |
| Transport | Aviation, Maritime, Logistics, Transportation | CLB 5 | 18 months |
| Other Fields | Business, Arts, Social Sciences | CLB 7 | 12 months |
💰 Application Fees
| Service | Cost (CAD) | When Required |
|---|---|---|
| PGWP Application | $255 | All applications |
| Biometrics | $85 | First-time applicants or expired biometrics |
| Restoration of Status | $229 | If status expired before application |
| Total (Standard Extension) | $340 | Application + Biometrics |
💡 Payment Tips
Pay fees online through the IRCC portal using credit card or debit card. Keep receipt as proof of payment. Fees are non-refundable even if application is refused.
⏱️ Processing Times
*Processing times are updated weekly on the IRCC website and may vary based on application volume
⚡ Quick Eligibility Check
🔍 Are You Eligible for Extension?
Check all that apply to your situation:
- PGWP expired between January 30, 2024 – December 31, 2025
- Currently in Canada with valid temporary resident status
- Graduated from an eligible program (see fields of study)
- Can apply before April 30, 2026 deadline
- Meet language requirements for your field (if applicable)
If you checked all boxes, you may be eligible for the 18-month PGWP extension!
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can continue working under implied status if you applied for your PGWP extension before your current work permit expired and maintained valid temporary resident status in Canada.
You must restore your status first by applying for restoration within 90 days of losing status. You can apply for restoration and PGWP extension simultaneously, but additional fees ($229) apply.
It depends on your field of study and intended occupation. Healthcare and some other fields require CLB 7, while STEM and skilled trades require CLB 5. Check the eligible fields table for specific requirements.
No, you must be physically present in Canada to apply for the PGWP extension. This is a strict requirement for the 2026 extension program.
After April 30, 2026, no more applications for the special 18-month PGWP extension will be accepted. This is the final deadline set by IRCC for this program.
Generally, you can only receive one PGWP per level of study and one extension under the special 2026 program. However, if you complete a higher level of education, you may be eligible for a new PGWP.
Yes, work experience gained on PGWP extension counts toward Canadian Experience Class (CEC) and other immigration programs, provided you work in eligible NOC categories.
If your PGWP extension is refused, you must stop working immediately and may need to leave Canada unless you have another valid status. You can explore other work permit options or apply for permanent residence if eligible.
If your spouse has an open work permit based on your PGWP, they may continue working while your extension is being processed, provided they maintain valid status in Canada.
You can check your application status through your IRCC online account. Updates typically appear within 24-48 hours of any changes to your file. You’ll also receive email notifications for major updates.
👨⚖️ Professional Assistance
💼 When to Consider Professional Help
- Complex cases with multiple factors to consider
- Previous application refusals or immigration violations
- Uncertainty about eligibility or requirements
- Language barriers in understanding legal documents
- Time constraints and busy schedules
- Need for strategic advice on immigration planning
Types of Professional Assistance
- Licensed Immigration Consultants (RCIC): Regulated professionals who can represent you
- Immigration Lawyers: Legal experts for complex cases and appeals
- Designated Representatives: For specific circumstances
⚠️ Avoid Immigration Fraud
Only use licensed professionals. Verify credentials through the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC) or provincial law societies. Unlicensed consultants cannot legally represent you.
Need Help with Your PGWP Application?
Get expert assistance with your PGWP application from licensed immigration consultants. Free initial consultation available.
Get Free Consultation⚠️ Important Disclaimer
Immigration policies change frequently. Always verify current requirements on the official IRCC website before applying. This guide is based on information available as of August 2026 and should be used for informational purposes only. Individual circumstances may vary, and professional advice is recommended for complex cases.
