Foreign nationals who study in Quebec are not required to have a valid Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) when submitting a PGWP application. As the PGWP is an open work permit and Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) exempt, a valid CAQ or study permit is not required at the time of PGWP issuance.

If foreign nationals are applying for a PGWP and their study permit has expired, they are permitted to apply for a restoration of status as a student without a CAQ and apply for the PGWP at the same time, as the CAQ is not required for the PGWP.