The Canadian government has provided international students with greater flexibility in pursuing their education and post-graduation work opportunities. In 2025, international students can still complete up to 100% of their studies online from outside Canada, a policy initially implemented during the global pandemic.
Time Studied Online and PGWP Eligibility
All time spent studying online from outside Canada between spring 2023 and August 31, 2025, will count towards the length of your PGWP. This applies even if you are completing two distinct programs, provided they meet eligibility criteria.
To qualify for a PGWP, you must have graduated from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada. The PGWP grants temporary permission to remain and work in Canada, and eligibility to apply for a Canadian work permit is contingent on meeting specific criteria outlined by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Eligibility to Complete Studies Fully Online
If you are completing two study programs, you can finish 100% of your studies online under the following conditions:
- The programmes were ongoing or commenced between March 2025 and summer 2025.
- Both study programs are offered by an eligible DLI and completed within two years.
- Each program meets all PGWP eligibility requirements and is at least eight months long.
Exclusions from PGWP Length Calculation
The following periods will not count towards the duration of a PGWP:
- Time spent studying outside Canada after August 31, 2025.
- Time spent studying before applying for a study permit.
Passport Expiry and its Impact on PGWP
If your passport expires before your PGWP’s full validity period, you will need to apply for an extension to ensure the PGWP covers the entire eligible period. This application must be submitted on paper.
Study Permit Expiry Before PGWP Application
If your study permit expires before you apply for a PGWP, you have up to 90 days after the permit’s expiration to:
- Apply for a PGWP.
- Restore your status as a student.
To restore your student status:
- Pay the required restoration fee online.
- Attach the receipt to your PGWP application.
Important Note: You cannot work until both your study permit and work permit applications have been approved. If you fail to apply within the 90-day window or if this period has passed, you will need to leave Canada.
Who Can Apply for a PGWP?
You can apply for a PGWP whether you are a Canadian resident or an international student from another country. However, you must meet the following requirements:
- Apply within 180 days of receiving your degree, diploma, transcript, or official letter from your institution.
- If your study permit expires before you receive your transcript or certificate, you may either:
- Apply for a visitor record to extend your stay in Canada.
- Leave Canada and apply for a PGWP from outside the country.
Processing Times for PGWP Applications
The processing time for a PGWP application is approximately 105 days for both online and paper-based submissions. However, this timeline can vary depending on:
- The type of application submitted.
- The completeness and accuracy of your documentation.
- Your responsiveness to any additional information requests or concerns from IRCC.
Conclusion
The PGWP is a valuable pathway for international students seeking to gain work experience in Canada after completing their studies. By adhering to the application guidelines, ensuring the timely submission of required documents, and maintaining compliance with Canadian immigration rules, you can maximizethe your chances of a successful PGWP application and enjoy the professional opportunities Canada has to offer.