1 Eligibility
3 years. For programs 8 months to 2 years, PGWP duration equals program length. Programs under 8 months don't qualify.
2 Duration by Program
Yes. As of, the work limit during term is 24 hours per week (up from 20). Full-time work is allowed during scheduled breaks.
3 Work Rights During Study
If you're on a PGWP from a Master's or PhD program, your spouse gets an open work permit. PG Diploma PGWP holders: spouse work rights are more limited in.
4 Spouse Work Rights
You can apply for a bridging open work permit if your PR application is in process. If not, you may need to leave Canada or find another work authorization.
5 How to Apply
For detailed information on this topic, contact our certified counsellors who can provide personalized guidance based on your specific profile, budget, and career goals.
6 PGWP → PR
For detailed information on this topic, contact our certified counsellors who can provide personalized guidance based on your specific profile, budget, and career goals.
| Program Length | PGWP Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Less than 8 months | ❌ Not eligible | Must be 8+ months |
| 8 months to 2 years | = Program length | 1-yr program = 1-yr PGWP |
| 2+ years | 3 years | Maximum PGWP duration |
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How long is PGWP for a 2-year program?
3 years. For programs 8 months to 2 years, PGWP duration equals program length. Programs under 8 months don't qualify.
Can I work 24 hours per week now?
Yes. As of, the work limit during term is 24 hours per week (up from 20). Full-time work is allowed during scheduled breaks.
Can my spouse work on PGWP?
If you're on a PGWP from a Master's or PhD program, your spouse gets an open work permit. PG Diploma PGWP holders: spouse work rights are more limited in.
What happens if PGWP expires before PR?
You can apply for a bridging open work permit if your PR application is in process. If not, you may need to leave Canada or find another work authorization.
8 Spouse & Family Rights — Complete Breakdown
| Your Program | Spouse Work Permit | Children Education | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Master's / PhD | Open work permit ✅ | Free public school ✅ | Best for families |
| PG Diploma (public DLI) | Limited — employer-specific | Free public school ✅ | Spouse needs LMIA job |
| PG Diploma (private) | ❌ No work permit | Depends on province | Most restrictive |
| Bachelor's degree | Open work permit ✅ | Free public school ✅ | Good option |
9 Earning Potential During & After PGWP
PGWP Application Checklist
- Apply within 180 days of receiving final transcript/completion letter
- Study permit must still be valid OR you must apply before it expires
- Program was full-time and at least 8 months long
- Institution is a designated learning institution (DLI)
- You maintained full-time status throughout (no unauthorized breaks)
- You have your final transcript or official completion letter
- Application fee: CAD $255 (₹17,340)
What Happens When PGWP Expires?
If PR application is in process: Apply for a Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP). This lets you keep working while IRCC processes your PR.
If PR not started: You must leave Canada or find another valid work authorization (employer-sponsored LMIA work permit).
Pro tip: Start your Express Entry profile within the first 6 months of PGWP work. Don't wait until year 3 — processing times can be unpredictable.
PGWP Extensions and Bridging Options
PGWP Extension (if eligible): In some cases, IRCC has offered 18-month PGWP extensions for workers in essential occupations. Check the IRCC website for current extension policies, as these have changed several times since 2023.
Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP): If your PGWP is expiring and your PR application is in process, you can apply for a BOWP. Requirements include: a valid Express Entry profile, an ITA already received, and a PR application submitted. Processing takes 4–8 weeks. This is your safety net — do not let your PGWP expire without applying.
Employer-Sponsored LMIA: If PR isn't happening fast enough, ask your employer to apply for an LMIA. This gives you a closed work permit tied to that employer, buys you 1–2 more years in Canada, and adds 50–200 CRS points for your Express Entry profile.
Province-wise Job Markets for PGWP Holders
Ontario: Toronto and Ottawa dominate in tech, finance, and healthcare. High competition but highest salaries. Average PGWP salary: CAD 58K.
British Columbia: Vancouver is strong for tech and film. Expensive housing but excellent quality of life. Average PGWP salary: CAD 55K.
Alberta: Calgary and Edmonton offer oil/energy sector jobs with the highest wages outside Toronto. Average PGWP salary: CAD 65K. No provincial sales tax — more take-home pay.
Manitoba: Winnipeg is affordable with strong manufacturing and healthcare sectors. Large Punjabi community. Average PGWP salary: CAD 48K but much lower living costs. Fastest PNP processing.
Saskatchewan: Regina and Saskatoon need workers in agriculture, mining, and healthcare. Average PGWP salary: CAD 50K. Very accessible SINP pathway.
