Canada's post-graduate work permit, explained simply

Canada's post-graduate work permit is one of the reasons it's a popular destination for students thinking beyond graduation day. Here's what it actually covers.

What it is

The permit allows eligible international graduates to work in Canada for a period tied to the length of their study programme, without needing a specific job offer lined up first.

Who qualifies

Eligibility depends on your programme's length and the institution you studied at — not every school or course qualifies, so this is worth confirming before you enrol, not after.

How it compares to other destinations

Where some countries require a job offer before you can stay, or cap post-study work at a fixed short period regardless of your degree length, Canada's permit scales with how long you studied, up to a maximum duration.

Plan the paperwork early

Applications need to be submitted within a specific window after your studies end. Missing that window can mean losing eligibility entirely, so this is one deadline worth calendaring the moment you know your graduation date.