IRCC Issues New Instructions to Prevent Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Refusals

The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is crucial for Canadian work experience and eventual permanent residence. In recent months, there has been a significant rise in the number of Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) applications getting rejected primarily due to missing supporting documents rather than any eligibility issues. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has given updated instructions regarding the methods to follow to avoid PGWP refusals. Prospective applicants must have an understanding of the new instructions for PGWP application Canada for getting a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) .

Why PGWP Applications Are Being Refused In 2025

The applicants have failed to provide:

• Proof of language proficiency test results, and
• Proof of eligible field of study requirement

Previously there was not a separate section for these documents, leading applicants to assume there was no need to upload these documents. IRCC has said that it is system limitations in the online application portal and has added a new section on how to apply for a PGWP.

IRCC PGWP Instructions on Document Submission

Where and How to Upload Documents in the IRCC Portal as per IRCC PGWP update 2025

IRCC has confirmed that the proof of language test results and eligible field of study is a must in the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) application. There will be no specific slot in the main document checklist of the online application portal. The applicant is to upload the documents in the Client Information Section of the applicant’s online account.

• Upload the language test results and eligible field of study documents in the “Client Information” section correctly.
• Combine multiple documents into a single PDF, since only one file can be uploaded and saved in the section.
• Compress the merged file to meet the size limits.

What to do if you have already applied without uploading the necessary documents

If you have already submitted the application without uploading the necessary documents, you can still rectify your mistake by submitting missing documents through the IRCC web form.

• Go to the IRCC web form and select “ask about or update your application.”
• Select the form, “add a document to your application.”
• Select the principal applicant and give your application number and Unique Client Identifier (UCI).
• Select, “I want to add the document(s) to support or complete my application.”
• Upload the required documents (multiple files can be uploaded as long as they do not exceed 3.5 MB in total).

Language Proficiency and Field of Study Requirements

As of 2024, as a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) applicant, you may be required to prove that you meet the Language Proficiency and Field of Study requirements by submitting the necessary documents.

Language Proficiency:

All PGWP applicants must submit valid English or French test results from an IRCC-designated testing organization. The required Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) depends on the level of study.

• College and University Bachelor’s; University Master’s; University Doctoral Programs -  CLB 7
• Other University Programs - CLB 7
• College or Non-University Programs - CLB 5

Field of Study:

Field of Study requirements have to be met by applicants whose programs are below a college bachelor’s degree.

• College and University Bachelor’s; University Master’s; University Doctoral Programs – Not Applicable
• Other University Programs: You need to have graduated from an eligible study field.
• College or Non-University Programs - Need to have graduated from an eligible study field.

To prove that your field of study is eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), you are to submit the official graduation letter from your Designated Learning Institution (DLI) confirming the program and its official Classification of Instructional Program (CIP) code.

How ImmiLaw Immigration Helps Prevent PGWP Refusals

ImmiLaw Immigration will help you with the entire process of PGWP application Canada. Our lawyers will provide professional legal support with the application process, meeting the IRCC rules and regulations.

• We stay updated on the IRCC policy changes, including IRCC PGWP instructions.
• Our team ensures that you get personal guidance on the documents to be submitted according to your eligibility.
• We check and ensure that the correct documents are uploaded in the right sections as per the IRCC rules.
• We stay updated with IRCC policy changes and updates.

Conclusion

Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) refusals mean loss of post-graduation work rights, impacting your scope of gaining valuable work experience, which will affect your long-term career aspirations and will affect your path towards a permanent residency in Canada. You can avoid PGWP refusals by knowing clearly what, where, and how to upload the supporting documents. 

Avoid PGWP refusal. Contact ImmiLaw for PGWP application Canada!

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