If you’ve studied more than one program in Canada, you might qualify for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) with a longer validity—up to three years.
The Canadian government recently updated its rules on how the length of your PGWP is decided. This is great news for students who have completed multiple programs!
Let’s break it down in simple terms:
What is Program Stacking and Why It’s Important?
Program stacking means combining two or more eligible programs to get a longer PGWP. To do this, both programs must meet these conditions:
- Minimum Duration: Each program should be at least 8 months long.
- Completion Timeline: Both programs must be finished within 2 years of each other.
- Approved School: The programs must be completed at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) eligible for PGWP.
How the Duration of Your PGWP is Determined
Here’s how IRCC (Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada) decides how long your PGWP will last, depending on your study history:
| Situation | PGWP Duration |
|---|---|
| Completed 2 PGWP-eligible programs | PGWP will be based on the total length of both programs. |
| Completed a PGWP-eligible program and a non-eligible program | PGWP will be based only on the length of the eligible program. |
| Completed an eligible program first, then a non-eligible one | You must apply for a PGWP within 180 days of finishing the eligible program. |
What Makes a Program Eligible for a PGWP?
Not every program qualifies for a PGWP. To be eligible, your program must meet these basic requirements:
- Minimum Duration: It must be at least 8 months long.
- Degree or Certificate: The program should lead to a degree, diploma, or certificate.
- Program Type: It must be academic, vocational, or professional training.
- Approved School: It must be completed at a DLI in Canada, such as:
- A university, college, or trade school.
- A CEGEP (in Quebec).
- A private school in Quebec offering certain professional programs.
- A Canadian private school that awards degrees authorized by the province.
New PGWP Rules Based on When You Applied for a Study Permit
If you applied for your study permit after November 1, 2024, new rules apply. Here’s a summary:
For Study Permits Applied Before Nov. 1, 2024
| Level of Study | Language Requirement | Field of Study Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| University (Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctorate) | CLB 7 in all skills (English/French) | Not required |
| Other University Programs | CLB 7 in all skills (English/French) | Not required |
| College or Non-University Programs | CLB 5 in all skills (English/French) | Not required |
For Study Permits Applied After Nov. 1, 2024
| Level of Study | Language Requirement | Field of Study Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| University (Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctorate) | CLB 7 in all skills (English/French) | Not required |
| Other University Programs | CLB 7 in all skills (English/French) | Must graduate from an eligible field of study |
| College or Non-University Programs | CLB 5 in all skills (English/French) | Must graduate from an eligible field of study |
FAQs
- Can I apply for a PGWP if I completed my program online due to COVID-19?
Yes, IRCC has temporary policies allowing online studies to count toward PGWP eligibility, but it’s best to check current guidelines before applying. - What is the maximum length of a PGWP?
The maximum length of a PGWP is three years, regardless of how many programs you’ve stacked. - What happens if my study program is less than 8 months?
Unfortunately, programs shorter than 8 months are not eligible for a PGWP. - Can I combine two programs to get a longer PGWP?
Yes, as long as both programs are PGWP-eligible, at least 8 months long, and completed within two years of each other. - How long do I have to apply for a PGWP after completing my program?
You must apply for a PGWP within 180 days of receiving your final marks or confirmation of program completion.
Need Help?
📌 If you believe your VISA application should be showcased in the most favorable light when submitting to immigration, feel free to book our services.
📌 To book an appointment with Kubeir – Licensed Canadian Immigration Consultant, click the “Book Appointment”
📲 You may also reach us at this number for all immigration-related services:
- (+𝟭) 𝟰𝟯𝟳-𝟳𝟳𝟳-𝟯𝟳𝟳𝟳 (Canada)
- +971 45 26 4646 (Dubai)
Disclaimer: This is for informational purposes only and not legal advice. Always consult experts like us or the official IRCC website for up-to-date details.