Increase In PGWP Refusals Due To Missing Language Test Results – What Graduates Need To Know

In recent months, there has been a significant rise in Post‑Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) refusals caused by missing language test results.

Why Are PGWP Applications Being Refused?

As of November 1, 2024, nearly all PGWP applicants must submit proof of English or French language proficiency as part of their application. The accepted tests include CELPIP‑General, IELTS General Training, TEF Canada, TCF Canada, and PTE Core, and results must be less than two years old at the time of submission.

However, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada's (IRCC) application portal does not currently provide a designated upload field for language test results. Rather, applicants are required to upload their results under the "Client Information" section. Many applicants remain unaware of this requirement, resulting in unintended omissions and refusals. IRCC formally acknowledged this system issue in December 2025, updating its Program Delivery Instructions to clarify where results should be uploaded.

Compounding the problem, IRCC's current processing times mean refusals are often issued many months after submission, typically after the 180‑day eligibility window to apply for a PGWP has already passed, making many graduates ineligible for reapplication. PGWP applicants must submit their application within 180 days of receiving written confirmation of graduation.

Options for Applicants Who Receive a PGWP Refusal

Despite the seriousness of the situation, affected graduates may still have viable options. The main paths to consider include:

1. Request Reconsideration

A reconsideration request can be submitted through IRCC's webform. While not guaranteed, some applicants have seen positive outcomes. The request should be factual and direct, and should include relevant supporting documentation, such as proof of the language test taken prior to submission of the application.

In some instances, after submitting a request for reconsideration, applicants may receive a request for the open work permit fee payment again, which is typically refunded upon refusal of the PGWP – indicating that the application is likely being reopened for reconsideration.

2. Judicial Review

Applicants should also be aware of their deadline for filing a Notice of Application for Leave and Judicial Review to challenge the decision in the Federal Court of Canada. For in-Canada applicants, this must be initiated within 15 days from the date of refusal.

The goal of the Judicial Review process is to have the refusal set aside and the application reopened for re-assessment. In many cases, our office pursues early settlement discussions with Department of Justice counsel representing IRCC to facilitate the reopening of the application without the need to proceed through the full Judicial Review process.

3. Submit a New Application

While the reconsideration request and Judicial Review processes are useful tools for challenging the decision to refuse the PGWP application, applicants must still ensure to maintain valid temporary status in Canada.

Some relevant considerations include:

• Restoration of status must be requested within 90 days of losing status.
• If still within 180 days of receiving written confirmation of graduation, an applicant may be eligible to submit a new PGWP application (with restoration, if needed).
• After 180 days, options become more limited. Some may consider applying for a Temporary Resident Permit to overcome the 180-day limitation, though this is generally a last resort.
• Others may wish to restore status as a visitor or explore different types of work permits depending on their circumstances.

As the most suitable option depends on your personal circumstances, it is recommended that you contact our office for a consultation, to allow us to assess your options.

Conclusion

If your PGWP application was refused due to missing language test results, you may still have options, but strict deadlines mean it is essential to get legal advice without delay. Our firm is actively assisting affected graduates with reconsideration requests, settlement negotiations, judicial review processes, and alternative applications. We are here to help you navigate your next steps. To discuss what these changes mean for you, please contact us for a consultation.

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.