New changes to the PGWP take effect on November 1, 2024

The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program in Canada is a vital opportunity for international students seeking work experience after their studies. Recently, important changes were announced that will reshape the eligibility criteria for this program. Set to take effect on November 1, 2024, these changes aim to clarify which programs qualify for the PGWP and ensure that only students with specific qualifications benefit from it.

On September 18, officials disclosed the upcoming modifications, but the complete details of eligible study programs were not initially provided. However, the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has now released a comprehensive list of study programs that will be eligible for the PGWP starting November 1. This move intends to streamline the application process and make it more efficient for prospective international students.

What Remains the Same?

Despite the new changes, many of the core eligibility requirements for the PGWP will stay the same. Here are the main points that will not change:

1. Designated Learning Institution (DLI): Students must still complete their studies at a designated learning institution eligible for the PGWP.
2. Physical Presence: Students are required to be physically present in Canada for most of their program, a requirement that will continue to apply.
3. Existing Applications: If you apply for a PGWP before November 1, 2024, you will only need to meet the current criteria, meaning you won’t be affected by the new rules.
4. Flight School Graduates: Those graduating from PGWP-eligible flight schools are exempt from the new criteria, regardless of when they apply.

New Eligibility Requirements Effective November 1, 2024

For students planning to apply for the PGWP after the new rules come into effect, updated eligibility requirements will apply based on when they submitted their study permit applications.

1. Students Who Submitted Study Permit Applications Before November 1, 2024:
   • University Graduates: Must prove language proficiency, achieving a minimum of Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) 7 in reading, writing, listening, and speaking for English or French.
   • Other University Programs: Same language requirement as above.
   • College Programs: Must demonstrate a minimum of CLB 5 in all areas for English or Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens (NCLC) 5 for French.
2. Students Who Submit Study Permit Applications On or After November 1, 2024:
   • University Graduates: CLB 7 in all language skills for both English and French.
   • Other University Programs: CLB 7 language requirement, and graduation from a program in a high-demand field in Canada is necessary.
   • College Graduates: CLB 5 for language, with a requirement to graduate from an eligible field of study tied to occupations facing long-term shortages.

Language Testing Requirements

A significant change is the necessity for students to demonstrate language proficiency through specific tests. These must be completed within two years of applying for the PGWP. Accepted tests include the CELPIP, IELTS (General Training option), and PTE Core.

Eligible Fields of Study Post-November 1, 2024

The new PGWP guidelines introduce specific fields of study linked to occupations that are experiencing long-term shortages in Canada. Programs in areas such as healthcare, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), trade, transportation, and agriculture will qualify for the PGWP.

Examples of eligible programs include:

• Agriculture and Agri-Food: General Agriculture, Agricultural Business, Agronomy, Animal Health.
• Healthcare: Veterinary Sciences, Disability Studies, Nutrition Sciences, Special Education.
• STEM: Molecular Genetics, Computer Science, Exercise Physiology.
• Trade: Meat Cutting, Plant Nursery Operations.
• Transport: Aircraft Pilot, Heavy Equipment Operation.

These fields offer numerous opportunities, and students are encouraged to check their specific program’s CIP code to confirm eligibility.

Preparing for the Changes

As these updates unfold, international students aiming to work in Canada after graduation should familiarize themselves with the new requirements and ensure their programs align with the updated criteria. Consulting with educational institutions or immigration advisors will be beneficial to navigate these changes effectively.