IRCC Approves New Programs for PGWP- Eligibility

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has made significant updates to the eligibility criteria for Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWPs) as of December 17, 2024. These changes are brought to better match educational programs with the needs of the Canadian job market, particularly in sectors that are facing long-term shortages. Graduates now have even more opportunities to kickstart their careers in Canada.

Let us explore the implications of these changes, including the new fields of study eligible for PGWPs and the requirements that international students must meet to take advantage of this opportunity.

What you need to know about the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)?

PGWP is an open work permit for international graduates who have completed an eligible program of study at any Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada. With a PGWP, they can work for most employers across various industries.

The duration of a PGWP depends on the length of the study program completed, ranging from eight months to three years.

For instance, if a student completes a two-year program, they may receive a PGWP with three years validity. The work permit allows international graduates to gain valuable work experience, leading to obtaining permanent residency in Canada.

Canadian work experience can help graduates qualify for the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) and enhance their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores, making it easier to transition to permanent residency in Canada.

What New Opportunities Does the Expanded PGWP Eligibility Offer for Graduates?

Before the recent updates, IRCC outlined fields of study requirements on October 4, 2024. These requirements were divided into various categories matching the Express Entry occupations.

The five categories included:

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

With the latest update, Education is introduced as a new category for PGWP eligibility. The change highlights the importance of early childhood education and developmental service workers in meeting workforce needs in Canada. As a result, programs related to these fields are now eligible for PGWPs, giving graduates more opportunities to work in critical areas.

What are the Newly Eligible Programs that fall under PGWP Eligibility?

The newly eligible programs under the PGWP category include the following:

These eligible programs for PGWPs will enable graduates to gain valuable Canadian work experience in the education sector, which is essential for meeting workforce demands.

What are the New Field of Study Requirements?

To qualify for a PGWP, students must now graduate from programs that are linked to occupations in long-term shortage. This requirement applies explicitly to college and vocational university programs.

Here are the key points to consider :

• Exemptions: Graduates of bachelor's, master's, or doctoral programs are not subject to these new field of study requirements.
• Study Permit Applications: Students who applied for study permits before November 1, 2024, do not need to meet these new requirements.
• However, the field of study requirement will apply if they apply for a new study permit after November 2024, even if they change schools or programs.
• Language Proficiency Requirement: IRCC has also introduced a language proficiency requirement that varies based on the level of study. If it is for:

1. University Graduates (Bachelor's, Master's, Doctoral):
   Students must demonstrate a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) score of 7 in all four abilities: reading, writing, listening, and speaking.
2. College Graduates
   Students must achieve a CLB score of 5 in all four abilities.

Where can International Students find Information on Eligible Programs?

Students can use Canada's Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) system to categorize educational programs. The CIP provides detailed information about which programs qualify under the new eligibility criteria. Prospective students must consult this resource when selecting their fields of study to ensure they meet PGWP requirements upon graduation.

For assistance regarding program eligibility or to explore the CIP system further, feel free to contact ImmiLaw Global. Our team will guide you to find the right educational program that aligns with your career goals.

How can International Students Benefit from these Changes?

The expansion of PGWP-eligible fields provides international students with excellent opportunities to gain valuable work experience in Canada after completing their studies.

This experience can be instrumental in your journey toward permanent residency through pathways like the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). Additionally, having relevant work experience can enhance your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, increasing your chances of kickstarting your immigration to Canada.

The recent changes to PGWP eligibility reflect the federal government's commitment to supporting international students and addressing labour market needs in Canada. By understanding these new requirements and taking advantage of the expanded fields of study, international students can enhance their career prospects after their studies and contribute significantly to Canada's economy.

At ImmiLaw Global, we specialize in providing comprehensive support for various immigration pathways, including work permits, student visas, and permanent residency applications. Our team, consisting of experienced immigration lawyers and overseas study experts, is here to guide you through each step. Whether you want to study or work abroad, we are here to help you achieve your dreams with personalized guidance and expert advice. 

Feel free to contact us for your queries.

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