PGWP Fees on Canada Visa Portal: What You Need to Know

Did you know over 130,000 international graduates applied for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) in 2023? This permit is a golden ticket for students to gain Canadian work experience after completing their studies.

The Canada Visa Portal streamlines the process, but understanding the costs is crucial. Recent updates for 2024-2025 may affect your work permit eligibility and fee structure.

Before submitting your application, ensure you budget for all charges. Missing a payment could delay or even cancel your permit. Planning ahead saves time and stress.

What Is a Post-Graduation Work Permit?

The Post-Graduation Work Permit is a key opportunity for international students in Canada. It lets you gain valuable work experience after finishing your studies. Unlike employer-specific permits, this is an open work permit, meaning you can work for any Canadian employer.

Definition and Purpose

This permit is designed to help graduates transition into Canada’s workforce. You’re not tied to one job or employer, giving you flexibility to explore careers. It’s a stepping stone to permanent residency for many.

Who Can Apply?

To be eligible, you must meet these requirements:

• Hold a valid study permit when applying or have held one within the last 180 days.
• Complete a program at a designated learning institution (DLI).
• Apply within 180 days of receiving final grades.
• Exceptions exist for students who studied remotely during COVID-19.

Note: Programs shorter than 8 months or completed after November 2024 may not qualify. Always check the latest rules before applying.

2. Understanding PGWP Fees on the Canada Visa Portal

Planning your budget for a Canadian work permit starts with understanding the costs. The portal lists mandatory and optional charges, so reviewing them early avoids surprises.

Breakdown of Application Costs

The base processing fee is $255 CAD. This covers the review of your application form and supporting documents. Payment is non-refundable, even if your request is denied.

“Applicants must pay fees in full to avoid processing delays.” — IRCC Guidelines

Additional Fees to Consider

Biometrics are required for most candidates:

• $85 CAD per person
• $170 CAD for families applying together

Language tests vary by provider:

If your passport expires sooner than three years, you may need to renew it first. Otherwise, your permit’s duration could be shortened.

The portal accepts credit cards and some debit cards. Bank transfers aren’t permitted.

3. PGWP Eligibility Requirements

Your dream of working in Canada depends on meeting specific academic and language standards. The rules vary by program length, study status, and even your field of study. Review these criteria carefully to avoid delays.

Program Length and Study Permit Status

Your course must last at least 8 months to qualify. Shorter programs don’t meet the eligibility requirements. The permit’s duration matches your study length:

• 8 months–2 years: Permit matches program length (e.g., 1-year diploma = 1-year permit).
• 2+ years: Up to 3-year permit.

You must hold a valid study permit when applying or have held one within the last 180 days.

Full-Time Enrollment and Field of Study Rules

Canada now prioritizes certain fields like healthcare, STEM, and skilled trades. For programs started after November 2024, check your CIP code—only approved fields qualify. Examples from SAIT Polytechnic include:

• Aircraft Maintenance (CIP 47.0607)
• Cyber Security (CIP 11.1003)

You must complete 50%+ of your studies in person. Exceptions exist for final semesters where part-time enrollment is allowed.

Language Proficiency Requirements

Proof of English/French skills is mandatory. Minimum CLB scores depend on your credential:

• Diplomas/certificates: CLB 5
• Degrees (bachelor’s/master’s): CLB 7

“Test results must be valid at the time of application. Expired scores will reject your submission.” — IRCC

4. How to Apply for a PGWP

Missing one document could delay your permit. Avoid mistakes with this guide. The Canada Visa Portal streamlines submissions, but accuracy ensures faster approval.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Follow these steps to apply pgwp without errors:

1. Log in to the portal using GCKey or a Sign-In Partner.
2. Select “Apply for a Work Permit” and complete the eligibility quiz.
3. Fill the IMM5710 form—mandatory fields include passport details, study history, and employer info (if applicable).

Required Documents Checklist

Upload these files in PDF format (max 4MB each):

• Completion letter from your school (DLI number must be visible).
• Unofficial transcripts—essential if you apply before convocation.
• Passport bio page and all stamps.

Submitting Your Application Online

After uploading documents, pay the $255 fee. You’ll receive biometric instructions within 24 hours. Book appointments early—delays here add weeks to processing.

“Double-check your completion letter’s issue date. Mismatches with transcripts cause rejections.” — Vancouver Immigration Consultant

5. Recent Changes to PGWP Eligibility (2024-2025 Updates)

Starting November 2024, only select academic programs will qualify for work permits. The Canadian government has prioritized fields like healthcare and technology to address labor shortages. If you began studies before this date, transitional rules may protect your eligibility.

New Field of Study Requirements

After November 1, 2024, your program’s Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) code must appear on IRCC’s approved list. For example:

• SAIT’s Cyber Security (CIP 11.1003) remains eligible.
• NorQuest College’s new Machine Learning Analyst program meets 2025 criteria.

Hospitality and business graduates face stricter scrutiny. Verify your CIP code early—updates arrive June 25, 2025.

Transition Rules for Existing Students

If you enrolled before November 2024, you’re exempt from new requirements for three years. This grandfathering clause ensures fairness for current students. However, you must still meet earlier standards like full-time enrollment.

“Language proficiency proof becomes mandatory for all applications submitted after November 1, 2024.” —

For detailed guidance, review the updated language proficiency requirement thresholds.

6. How Long Is a PGWP Valid?

Knowing your work permit’s validity period helps plan your career in Canada. The duration depends on your study program’s length and passport expiry date. Always verify these details to avoid unexpected gaps in your status.

Duration Based on Program Length

Your permit’s time frame matches your completed program:

• 8 months–2 years: Permit matches study duration (e.g., 1-year diploma = 1-year permit).
• 2+ years: Up to three years of work authorization.

Short programs under 8 months don’t qualify. If your passport expires sooner, the permit will align with that date.

Extending or Renewing Your Permit

Renewals require a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) or job offer from an approved employer. Temporary policies sometimes allow extensions—check IRCC updates for exceptions.

“Always renew your passport early. A soon-to-expire document shortens your permit validity.” —

Changing employers mid-permit is allowed, but notify IRCC to maintain legal status. Plan ahead to maximize your days in Canada.

7. Working While Your PGWP Application Is Processing

Navigating work authorization during processing requires careful planning. If your study permit is valid when you submit your application, you may work full-time while waiting for approval. This “maintained status” privilege ends once you receive your graduation letter.

Interim Work Authorization Rules

You must stop working if your study permit expires before approval. Border crossings during processing risk refusal—consult IRCC before travel. Renew your Social Insurance Number (SIN) immediately after permit approval to avoid payroll issues.

Maintaining Legal Status in Canada

Expired permits or unauthorized work jeopardize your status. Key steps include:

• Tracking your application progress via the IRCC portal.
• Updating your address within 7 days of moving.
• Contacting IRCC at 1-888-242-2100 for status verification.

“Working without authorization may lead to removal orders. Always confirm eligibility before accepting employment.” —

8. Conclusion

Securing your future in work Canada starts with proper planning for your work permit. The base fees of $255 CAD and biometric costs must be paid upfront to avoid delays.

Before submitting your application, verify your program’s eligibility under the 2024-2025 rules. Schedule language tests early, as expired results can reject your PGWP request.

Make sure your passport is valid for at least three years. Renew it early to maximize your permit’s duration. For the latest updates, visit the Canada Visa Portal regularly.