If you've finished your studies but your study permit hasn't expired yet, you can still travel outside Canada and re-enter on that same study permit, as long as it's within its validity window. Once you're back in Canada, you can then apply for your Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) — you don't need to obtain a separate work permit before re-entering.
Key points from the discussion:- Travel while your study permit is still valid. Re-entry on an unexpired study permit is fine even if your studies are already complete; the permit's expiry date is what matters, not your completion date.
- Apply for PGWP after you're back in Canada. There's no requirement to secure a work permit first — PGWP applications are typically made once your final marks/transcript are in, and this can happen after you return.
- Don't confuse the study permit with your travel visa. The study permit lets you study/stay in Canada; a separate stamped visa (TRV) in your passport (or a valid eTA for visa-exempt travelers) is what lets you board a flight and re-enter. Make sure whichever of these applies to you is still valid before you travel.
If your study permit is close to expiring, or you're unsure whether your TRV/eTA is still valid, it's worth double-checking both before booking travel to avoid being stuck outside Canada.