PGWP Document Checklist 2026: What to Submit After Graduation

After graduating in Canada, many students know they need a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) but are unsure which documents to prepare. This checklist gives you a practical starting point. Always follow the document list generated in your IRCC account because your requirements can differ.

PGWP Document Checklist: Quick Answer

• Valid passport
• Current study permit or proof of your status
• Official letter confirming program completion
• Official transcript or transcript downloaded from your school portal
• Language-test result if the rule applies to your program
• Proof of eligibility for your specific program, including field-of-study evidence if required

Start With Your School Documents

IRCC requires proof that you completed your program. Request your official completion letter as soon as it becomes available and keep your final transcript. Check that your name, program and completion date are correct.

Language Proof

For applications under the current rules, many graduates must prove language ability. University programs generally require CLB 7 in all four abilities; eligible college, polytechnic and non-university programs generally require CLB 5. IRCC accepts PTE Core, IELTS General Training and CELPIP-General for English. Read our PGWP PTE Core score guide before booking a test.

Check Your Dates Before Applying

You generally must apply within 180 days of confirmation that you completed your program. Your study permit must have been valid at some point during that 180-day period. Do not let your status expire while waiting for your school documents.

Field of Study and Program Eligibility

PGWP eligibility is not based only on graduating from a DLI. Depending on your program and the date of your study-permit application, a field-of-study rule may apply. Bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral graduates are exempt from that field-of-study requirement, but other students should verify their exact CIP code with IRCC and their school.

Before You Submit

1. Use IRCC’s official eligibility page.
2. Collect clear scans of each document.
3. Check expiry dates on your passport and status documents.
4. Upload language evidence if your program requires it, even if the portal labels the field optional.
5. Save copies of everything submitted and the payment confirmation.

Important

This article is educational, not legal advice. Read IRCC’s current PGWP eligibility rules and required-document guidance before applying.

Related guide: After submitting your application, use our PGWP processing time, status and work-while-waiting guide.