Canada has long been a top choice for international students seeking quality education and career opportunities. To address labor shortages and boost economic growth, the Canadian government is changing the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligibility criteria.
These changes will take effect on November 1, 2024, aligning international education with Canada's labor market needs.
What is PGWP?
The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is vital for international students in Canada. It allows you to:
Gain Canadian work experience after graduation.
Work for any employer in any occupation.
Hold a permit valid for up to three years, depending on your study program.
Why is PGWP Important?
The PGWP is a bridge to permanent residency. It helps you qualify for immigration programs like Express Entry.
For many, it's a key reason to choose Canada for studies, offering a path to a career and long-term settlement i.e. immgrate to Canada.
What Hasn't Changed
You must meet general and location eligibility requirements.
Complete a program at a PGWP-eligible institution.
If you apply before November 1, 2024, current criteria apply.
Graduates from eligible flight schools follow current criteria.
New PGWP Eligibility Requirements
For Study Permit Applications Before November 1, 2024:
University Graduates (Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctoral):
Language: CLB 7 in English or NCLC 7 in French.
Other University Programs:
Language: CLB 7 in English or NCLC 7 in French.
College or Other Programs:
Language: CLB 5 in English or NCLC 5 in French.
For Study Permit Applications On or After November 1, 2024:
University Graduates (Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctoral):
Language: CLB 7 in English or NCLC 7 in French.
No field of study requirement.
Other University Programs:
Language: CLB 7 in English or NCLC 7 in French.
Must be in an eligible field of study.
College or Other Programs:
Language: CLB 5 in English or NCLC 5 in French.
Must be in an eligible field of study.
Language requirements
You must provide proof of language ability to meet the language requirements for the PGWP when you submit your application.
To measure your English or French levels, Canada uses
Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) for English
Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadien (NCLC) for French
Proof of language ability
You must demonstrate your skill in each of the following abilities:
reading
writing
listening
speaking
Your test results must be less than 2 years old when you submit your application. Canada accepts language test results from these tests:
Field of study requirement
If your study program has a field of study requirement, you must graduate from a program linked to certain occupations in long-term shortage. The fields of study are divided into 5 broad categories:
Agriculture and Agri-food 🌾
Healthcare 🏥
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) 🔬
Trade Occupations 🔧
Transportation 🚚
This new field requirement does not apply to if you were to graduate from a university bachelor’s degree, master’s degree or doctoral degree program or if you have submitted your study permit BEFORE Nov 1, 2024.
These sectors are not only crucial for PGWP eligibility but are also targeted for permanent residency under the Express Entry category-based selections, offering a clear pathway for international students to build long-term careers in Canada and excellent opportunities to apply for Canada PR.
Detailed Look at Eligible Study Programs:
Agriculture and Agri-food
Sustainable Agriculture
Food Science and Technology
Agribusiness Management
Precision Agriculture
Horticulture
Aquaculture
Healthcare
Nursing
Medical Laboratory Science
Health Informatics
Pharmacy
Physiotherapy
Mental Health and Addiction Studies
STEM
Data Science and Analytics
Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
Cybersecurity
Environmental Engineering
Biotechnology
Renewable Energy Systems
Trade
Welding Technology
Electrical Engineering Technician
Construction Management
HVAC Systems Technology
Plumbing and Pipefitting
Automotive Technology
Transportation
Logistics and Supply Chain Management
Aviation Technology
Marine Transportation
Railway Operations
Commercial Truck Driving
Please note that your study program must meet the CIP 2021 Code and CIP 2021 title provided on Canada’s official website.
Canada's Broader Immigration Strategy
The PGWP changes are part of Canada's comprehensive immigration strategy aimed at attracting and retaining global talent.
Canada aims to welcome over 500,000 new permanent residents annually by 2025, with a significant portion coming through economic immigration streams. This figure is announced on November 1 each year.
The Express Entry system, which manages applications for three federal skilled immigration programs, now includes category-based selection draws.
These draws prioritize candidates with specific work experience in sectors facing labor shortages, aligning perfectly with the new PGWP criteria.
Impact of PGWP Changes on International Students
If You Are Planning to Study in Canada:
College Programs
Adopt a strategic approach to program selection.
Research and choose programs aligned with Canada's labor shortage list for PGWP eligibility.
Expect increased competition for spots in eligible programs.
Apply early to improve your chances of admission.
University Programs (Degree, Master’s, PhD)
No new restrictions apply.
Offers more flexibility in post-graduation work options.
Stay Informed
Keep updated on which college programs qualify for PGWP, as this list may change.
Be proactive in planning your educational and career path in Canada.
Seek Consultation
Seek advice from educational institutions and immigration professionals to understand the impact on your situation and future opportunities.
If You Are Applying for PGWP On or After November 1, 2024:
Language Test
Prepare and take your language test.
Have test results ready when applying for your PGWP.
Stay Informed and Prepared 📚
Opportunity to Reassess
Use the new PGWP eligibility as a chance to reassess and strategize your path to working in Canada.
Navigating Changes
With the right information and support, you can successfully navigate these changes.
Staying informed and prepared is crucial for success.
Stay Updated
Achieving Your Canadian Dream
Your Canadian dream is within reach, and we're here to guide you.
Stay engaged and informed to make your dream come true.
Need Personal Guidance?
If you're feeling lost about your options to make Canada your home, contact us for a personalized Canadian Immigration Roadmap. 🍁
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