The duration of post-graduation work permits (PGWPs) for programs other than master’s degrees will remain aligned with the length of the study program, up to a maximum of 3 years.
To manage the influx of international students, Canada implemented several measures, including introducing an intake cap on new international study permit applications and other related changes. Canada has experienced a significant increase in the number of students arriving for study and employment opportunities, both post-graduation and otherwise.
“The recently announced reforms aim to promote sustainable population growth in Canada, enhance system integrity, and ensure a positive experience for international students in Canada,” states an official note on the Canadian government website regarding recent changes in immigration and student study permit applications.
On X (formerly Twitter), IRCC announced that changes to the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program (PGWPP) for graduates of master’s degree programs will take effect from February 15, 2024.
Changes in Post-graduation work permit (PGWP)
In response to the significant number of international students choosing Canada for their higher studies, the Canadian government has made changes to the length of the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). These changes aim to allow graduates of master’s degree programs to gain the required Canadian work experience for their permanent residence application, as stated on the official website.
Starting from February 15, 2024, candidates graduating from a master’s degree program lasting less than 2 years and meeting all other PGWP eligibility criteria will be eligible for a longer, 3-year post-graduation work permit.
For programs other than master’s degrees, the length of PGWPs will continue to align with the length of the study program, up to a maximum of 3 years, as mentioned on the official website.
After receiving concerns regarding the quality of education and inadequate student support in public-private partnership college programs, the Canadian government has decided to restrict Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWPs) for these institutions.
Eligibility:
Graduates of programs that are at least two years long at PGWP-eligible designated learning institutions qualify for a 3-year PGWP, as do graduates of master’s degree programs less than 2 years long.
International students currently enrolled in a public-private partnership college program will be eligible for the PGWP if they meet the other eligibility criteria. However, new students enrolling in such programs will not be eligible for the PGWP.
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