If you are an international student who is completing your studies in Canada soon, you must have been paying attention to proposed changes to the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program. This permit allows you to work in Canada for up to three years after graduation, giving you valuable Canadian work experience. Last Friday, IRCC finally released details of the upcoming changes.
New Language Requirement
Regardless of your study permit application date, if you apply for your PGWP on or after November 1, 2024 except for graduates from a PGWP eligible flight school, you must meet the new language requirement in addition to the current eligibility requirements of the PGWP.
a) University program students: CLB/ NCLC 7 in all four areas
b) College program students: CLB/ NCLC 5 in all four areas
New Field of Study Requirement
IRCC is going to designate certain fields to solve long-term shortage of in-demand occupations. According to the recent announcement, the following five categories are the selected fields of study for the PGWP program:
a) Agriculture and agri-food
b) Healthcare
c) Science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM)
d) Trade
e) Transport
If you apply for your study permit on or after November 1, 2024, you may need to meet the new field of study requirement in addition to the new language requirement and the current eligibility requirements.
a) Students of a university bachelor’s degree, master’s degree or doctoral degree program: Not required
b) Students of other university program: Required
c) College program students: Required
Remember: These changes are designed to ensure that PGWP holders have the skills and experience needed to contribute to the Canadian economy. If you are planning to study in Canada that will lead to permanent residency, consult an expert so you don’t choose an ineligible program for a PGWP.
