Co-op Work | Practicum Work | Work After Graduation | Employment

Off-Campus Work Permit Program | Social Insurance Number Regulations

Applying for a Work Permit after graduation

International students are eligible to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit that is valid for up to three (3) years, depending on the duration of their academic program.

Highlight of the Post Graduation Work Permit

1. The permit is valid for up to a maximum of three (3) years, regardless of geographical location within Canada;
2. Students are not required to find a job related to their field of study;
3. Students do not need a job offer to apply for a post-graduation work permit;
4. The work permit is an "open" permit and not employer specific (which means that students do not need to change their work permit every time they change a job).

Application Information

International students who wish to apply for the Post-Graduation Work Permit must:

1. Possess a valid Study Permit;
2. Have graduated from an eligible program at a post-secondary institution OR have official notification that s/he has fulfilled the requirements for graduation;
3. Apply for the permit within 90 days of your last day of class in your final semester;
4. Have not previously been issued a work permit for post-graduation employment following any other course of study;
5. Submit signed copies of the appropriate forms along with supporting documentation ;
6. Submit a processing fee of $150.

Students must ensure they submit the following completed documentation to CIC:

1. Application to Change Conditions, Extend My Stay or Remain in Canada (IMM 1249)
2. Document Checklist (IMM 5583)
3. Use of Representative (IMM 5476) – optional
4. Photocopies of passport information pages
5. Photocopy of Study Permit
6. Original document stating the student has completed all of the requirements for graduation.  This may include:
1. A final transcript; or
2. A letter from the institution; or
3. A formal notification of graduation
7. Copy 2 of the receipt form or Internet receipt

The application package available on the CIC website.

Confirmation of Graduation

Students must submit their application for a Post-Graduation Work Permit within 90 days of receiving official notification that they have fulfilled the requirements to graduate.

CIC has updated the Guide (IMM 5580; version 04-2008), and Document Checklist (IMM 5583; version 04-2008) reflecting changes to the Post-Graduation Work Permit program announced on April 21, 2008.

Updated forms can be downloaded at: www.cic.gc.ca/english/information/applications/work-students.asp

While we attempt to stay up-to-date with new developments and policies governing the Post Graduation Work Permit, students are asked to consult the Citizenship and Immigration Canada website for full eligibility requirements, the instruction guide, the appropriate forms and processing times:

http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/study/work.asp

Revised: March 25, 2009