A Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
refusal is often caused by avoidable eligibility gaps or missing evidence.
Since IRCC assesses PGWP applications strictly against regulatory requirements,
the best way to prevent refusal is to confirm eligibility early and submit a
complete, well-organized application package that matches the rules.
1. Confirm Your Program Is
PGWP-Eligible Before You Apply
Not every program at a designated learning
institution is PGWP-eligible. Eligibility depends on the type of credential,
program length, and (for some applicants) whether the program meets the field
of study requirement. Always confirm your credential type and whether your
program is eligible before submitting the PGWP application.
2. Maintain Full-Time Status and
Document Any Exceptions
A common refusal issue is not meeting the
full-time study requirement. In general, you must remain full-time throughout
your program, with limited exceptions (such as part-time status in the final
academic session or authorized leave in certain cases). If you had a leave,
gap, or reduced course load, include official school documentation confirming
it was authorized and explain it clearly in a short letter.
3. Apply Within the Deadline and
Protect Your Status
IRCC can refuse a PGWP if you do not meet
the general requirements, such as completing a PGWP-eligible program of at
least 8 months, maintaining full-time status (part-time is generally allowed
only in the final semester), applying within 180 days of program completion,
and having a study permit that was valid at some point during the 180 days
after graduation and before you applied.
4. Meet the Language Requirement and
Upload Proof Correctly
For applications submitted on or after
November 1, 2024, most graduates must include valid language test results (an
exception applies for certain flight school graduates). Minimum levels must be
met in all four skills (reading, writing, listening, speaking). If you miss the
required score in even one skill, it can lead to refusal. Use an approved test
and confirm your results meet the required CLB/NCLC level for your credential
type. Just as important, upload the test report correctly as part of your application
to avoid an incomplete submission. In some cases, the online checklist may not
clearly prompt for language proof. Ensure your language test report is included
in the application, commonly under “Client Information.”
5. Confirm Field of Study
Requirements If They Apply to You
If your study permit application was
submitted on or after November 1, 2024, some non-degree programs require that
your program falls within an eligible field of study identified by CIP coding.
If this applies, confirm your program’s CIP code and ensure it is eligible at
the time you apply. Include school documents that clearly identify the program
and support the classification.
A strong PGWP application is built on
verified eligibility, consistent school records, accurate timelines, and
complete documentation submitted correctly the first time.
If you want to avoid a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
refusal, it’s essential to confirm program eligibility, maintain full-time
status, meet deadlines, comply with language requirements, and ensure all
documentation is complete and accurate.
A&M Canadian Immigration Law Corporation provides
expert guidance for PGWP applications. Our team verifies program eligibility,
reviews study status and timelines, ensures language proof is properly
submitted, checks field-of-study compliance, and helps organize a complete,
well-documented application package.
If you want to strengthen your PGWP application and minimize
the risk of refusal,
