PGWP for International Students in Canada

As of November 1, 2024, the eligibility criteria for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) have changed. The two most significant updates are:

1. College students in programs not linked to occupations in long-term shortage are no longer eligible for a PGWP.

2. New language proficiency requirements now apply to all applicants.

If you are an international student planning to stay and work in Canada after graduation, understanding these changes is crucial.

What is a PGWP?

The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is a temporary work permit available to international students who graduate from eligible institutions in Canada. It provides an opportunity to gain Canadian work experience, which can improve the chances of obtaining permanent residency.

PGWP Duration

The length of a PGWP depends on the program completed:

• Master’s Degree (8 months or longer, or 900 hours for Quebec programs): Eligible for a 3-year PGWP.

• Other programs:

  • 8 months to less than 2 years: PGWP duration matches the length of the study program.

  • 2 years or longer: Eligible for a 3-year PGWP.

• Multiple programs: The PGWP may be issued for a duration of up to three years, based on the total length of all completed programs.

Accelerated Programs

If a student completes a program in less time than its standard duration, they may still be eligible for a PGWP for the full length of the program.
For example, if a one-year program is completed in eight months, the graduate may still qualify for a one-year PGWP.

Eligibility Requirements

To apply for a PGWP, applicants must meet the following conditions:

• Completed a program at a PGWP-eligible Designated Learning Institution (DLI) that was at least 8 months long (or 900 hours for Quebec programs).

• Maintained full-time student status in Canada throughout the study program.

• Applied for a PGWP within 180 days of receiving confirmation of program completion.

New Field of Study Requirement (Effective November 1, 2024)

For some study programs, eligibility for a PGWP will now depend on the field of study. Graduates must have completed a program that aligns with occupations in long-term shortage, which fall into the following six categories:

• Agriculture and Agri-Food

• Education

• Health Care

• Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)

• Trades

• Transport

Exemptions from the Field of Study Requirement

Students in the following categories do not need to meet the field of study requirement:

• Graduates of a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree program.

• Graduates from a PGWP-eligible flight school.

• Students who started their program, changed programs, or applied for a PGWP before November 1, 2024.

Who is Not Eligible for a PGWP?

A PGWP application will not be approved if the applicant:

• Completed a program delivered through a public-private partnership (effective November 1, 2024).

• Studied English or French as a second language (ESL/FSL).

• Has already received a PGWP in the past (a PGWP can only be issued once).

• Completed more than 50% of their program through distance learning.

• Received funding or a scholarship that requires them to return to their home country after graduation.

• Completed a program at a non-Canadian institution, even if the institution has a campus in Canada.

Language Proficiency Requirements

Applicants must meet minimum language proficiency levels in English or French:

• University graduates (bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degrees): CLB 7 (English) or NCLC 7 (French) in all four language skills.

• Graduates from colleges, polytechnics, or non-university programs: CLB 5 (English) or NCLC 5 (French) in all four language skills.

Key Takeaways

With the new PGWP rules taking effect in November 2024, students must ensure they choose eligible programs and meet language requirements if they plan to stay and work in Canada after graduation. Those already studying should verify whether these changes impact their eligibility.

Planning ahead and staying informed is crucial for those considering a PGWP application