Changing eligibility criteria for Post-Graduation Work Permits

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has revealed adjustments to the guidelines for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program, aimed at streamlining the process and reducing the number of international study permits in 2024. Key changes include:

• New Eligibility Rules: Starting September 2024, international students enrolled in programs under curriculum licensing agreements between private and public colleges will not qualify for PGWP. This measure addresses the concern of less oversight in such programs and aims to close potential loopholes in PGWP eligibility.
• Extended Work Permit for Graduates: Graduates from master’s and other short graduate-level programs will soon be eligible for a 3-year work permit, regardless of their program’s shorter duration. This adjustment is designed to provide graduates with more time to gain valuable Canadian work experience, facilitating their path to permanent residency.

PGWP Overview: The PGWP allows international graduates to work for any employer in Canada without a job offer. The permit’s duration typically matches the length of the study program, up to a maximum of three years. Eligibility for a PGWP requires completion of a qualifying program at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), among other criteria.

Permanent Residency Transition: The PGWP is beneficial for international graduates seeking Canadian work experience, a significant factor for those applying for permanent residency.

These updates by IRCC aim to enhance the integrity of the international student program and support a sustainable, beneficial experience for students in Canada.