August 15, 2025
What’s Next? Your Essential Guide After Getting a PGWP”
What to Do After Getting Your Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
Your Essential Guide to Navigating the Next Steps in Canada
Receiving your Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is a major milestone for international graduates in Canada. It validates your legal work status, opening doors for valuable Canadian work experience and future immigration opportunities. But what should you do next?
Here are four crucial steps you need to take after obtaining your PGWP to ensure a smooth transition from student to professional—and boost your pathway to permanent residency.
1. Understand Your Work Authorization and Renew Your SIN
Your PGWP becomes effective immediately once approved—no need to wait for the physical permit. Your online confirmation grants you the right to work legally in Canada.
However, your Social Insurance Number (SIN) must be updated to reflect your new work status. Since your previous SIN was tied to your study permit, you need to renew it to work legally.
- Where to Renew: Service Canada (in-person or online)
2. Apply for a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) if You Plan to Travel
A PGWP is a work permit but not a travel document. If you plan to leave Canada temporarily, ensure you have a valid Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to re-enter.
- Where to Apply: Online via the IRCC portal
3. Renew Your Health Insurance Coverage
Once you graduate and switch to a PGWP, your student health insurance coverage ends. It’s important to renew or apply for provincial health insurance, such as OHIP in Ontario or AHCIP in Alberta.
- Why: To maintain continuous health coverage while working
- Where: Your provincial health authority (e.g., OHIP, MSP, AHCIP)
- What You Need: PGWP, valid ID (passport), previous health card, and proof of address (if required)
- How to Apply: Visit your province’s official health authority website or office.
4. Build Canadian Work Experience and Prepare for Permanent Residency (PR)
Your PGWP is a critical stepping stone toward Canadian permanent residency. Many immigration pathways, such as the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) under Express Entry, require 1-2 years of skilled Canadian work experience.
- Gain Relevant Experience: Focus on jobs classified under the right National Occupational Classification (NOC) codes.
- Track Your Work: Keep records of work hours, employer reference letters, and pay stubs.
- Explore Immigration Pathways: Research federal and provincial nominee programs (PNPs) that prioritize candidates with Canadian work experience.
- Prepare Your Application: Gather language test results, educational credentials, and other required documents early.
Bonus Tips: Stay Compliant and Keep Your Information Updated
- Avoid unauthorized work or roles not permitted under your PGWP conditions (e.g., certain healthcare positions may require additional certifications).
- Keep all permits and documents valid and up to date to avoid complications.
Need Expert Help With Your PGWP and PR Journey?
Navigating the transition from a PGWP to permanent residency can be complex. At MyWorld Immigration, our experienced consultants guide you through every step—from renewing your SIN to exploring the best immigration programs tailored to your profile.
Contact us today for a personalized consultation and take confident steps toward your Canadian dream! Phone: +1-672-399-0000