What is PGWP Canada? Latest updates for 2024

Studying in Canada opens doors for international students to work post-graduation through the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program. This article provides detailed information about PGWP Canada and highlights critical policy changes in 2024.

What is PGWP Canada?

The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is a work permit for international students who graduate from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada. It allows students to work legally in Canada, helping them gain practical work experience for up to three years.

The duration of the PGWP depends on the level and length of the study program:

• College programs: Typically 1–3 years, depending on program length for five regulated fields.
• University programs: Up to three years for a four-year program, with no restrictions on fields of study.
• Master's programs: Up to three years, irrespective of the duration or field of study.

Changes in PGWP eligibility requirements for 2024

On September 18, 2024, Immigration Minister Marc Miller announced significant changes to PGWP policies, raising concerns among international students. Clarifications were provided by IRCC on October 4, 2024.

Key policy changes

Depending on the date of your Study Permit application:

a) Applications submitted before November 1, 2024:

• University graduates: English/French language proficiency of CLB/NCLC 7 in all skills.
• College graduates: English/French language proficiency of CLB/NCLC 5 in all skills.

b) Applications submitted on or after November 1, 2024:

• Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctoral university programs: CLB/NCLC 7 across all skills, with no field restrictions.
• Other university programs: CLB/NCLC 7 and restricted to eligible fields of study.
• College programs and non-listed university programs: CLB/NCLC 5, with field restrictions.

Language requirements

Language certificates must be issued within two years of application. Accepted tests include:

• CELPIP – General
• IELTS – General
• PTE – Core
• TEF Canada
• TCF Canada

Check the equivalence chart to convert scores to CLB levels.

Eligible fields of study for restricted programs

The following fields qualify under restricted programs:

1. Agriculture and Agri-food
2. Healthcare
3. Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)
4. Trade
5. Transportation

Detailed lists of eligible fields and CIP codes can be found on the official Canadian Government website.

Exemptions from new policies

Students currently enrolled or those who submitted a Study Permit application before November 1, 2024, will not be impacted by the new PGWP policies regarding work permit duration, qualification level, or fields of study. For example:

• Diploma/Advanced Diploma students: PGWP issuance will follow pre-existing rules.
• Study Permit renewals post-November 1, 2024, will not be subject to these changes.

IRCC confirmed that the new policies apply only to prospective students filing applications after the specified date.

Other unaffected cases include:

• Students who maintain eligibility through DLIs.
• Graduates from aviation programs, even if their PGWP application is filed after November 1, 2024.

Conclusion

Canada’s PGWP program offers a golden opportunity for international students to grow their careers and enhance settlement prospects. However, the 2024 policy changes demand thorough preparation, particularly regarding language proficiency and fields of study. Ensure you understand how these changes apply to your case to avoid unexpected challenges.