In a significant update for international students, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced a change in the eligibility criteria for Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWP). Starting November 1, 2024, graduates of college bachelor’s and master’s degree programs will no longer need to meet the field-of-study requirement to apply for a PGWP. This update aims to simplify the process for international students, particularly those completing college-level programs that grant bachelor’s or master’s degrees.
Previously, students had to graduate from programs in specific fields of study related to occupations in long-term shortage to qualify for a PGWP. However, with this new development, the restriction will no longer apply, providing more opportunities for international students to work in Canada after completing their studies. However, students will still need to prove proficiency in English or French, meeting Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) 7 in English or Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens (NCLC) 7 in French across all four language areas.
New eligibility criteria for PGWP applicants
This change applies to students who applied for a study permit after November 1, 2024, and are pursuing college-level bachelor’s or master’s degree programs. The update significantly alters the landscape for international students looking to gain valuable work experience in Canada after graduation. The removal of the field-of-study requirement ensures that a broader range of graduates will be eligible to apply for a PGWP, regardless of their program’s focus.
In addition to this, students will still need to demonstrate their language skills to meet the updated eligibility criteria. Graduates must achieve a minimum CLB 7 (or NCLC 7 for French) in each of the four language areas: speaking, listening, reading, and writing. This requirement ensures that international graduates are adequately prepared for the Canadian workplace environment.
Work in Canada after you graduate: Who can apply?
Clarification on applications submitted before November 2024
It is important to note that for applications submitted before November 1, 2024, the field-of-study requirement still applies. IRCC has clarified that these applicants are not subject to the new criteria and do not need to meet the field-of-study restriction. The department is working to update its website guidance accordingly to reflect this change.
Impact on international students and Canadian immigration
This update is expected to have a significant impact on international students, making it easier for them to transition from their studies to professional opportunities in Canada. By removing the field-of-study requirement, Canada’s immigration policies are becoming more inclusive, allowing students from a wider range of programs to contribute to the Canadian workforce.
As the new rule takes effect, international students and educational institutions in Canada will likely see an increase in applications for study permits, with students more confident in their post-graduation work opportunities.
