Canada PGWP Changes: All You Need To Know

Canada has announced new requirements for the Post Graduation Work Permit following an ongoing review of the immigration system related to international students.

The changes, which take effect November 1, are designed to better align the system will labour market needs and manage the volume of applications. New language requirements have also been introduced.

Canada has see a significant increase in the volume of international students since the Covid-19 pandemic. Now, the federal government is taking steps to stem that tide.

The main change is a limit on the field of study for applicants from universities who do not have a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctoral degree, and those from Canadian colleges.

There are now 966 fields of study are divided into five broad categories:

• agriculture and agri-food
• healthcare
• science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM)
• trade
• transport

A full list of the field of study is available here

Key PGWP Changes

• Field of Study Requirement: Graduates from certain programs must now complete an eligible field of study to qualify for the PGWP, specifically for college and some university programs.
• No Field of Study Requirement for Higher Degrees: Graduates with a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree from a university can qualify for the PGWP without additional field of study requirements.
• Language Proficiency: Candidates must meet language proficiency requirements of CLB 7/NCLC 7 for university degrees and CLB 5/NCLC 5 for college programs.
• Application Timing: Graduates who applied for a study permit before November 1, 2024, must still meet the new PGWP requirements if applying for a work permit on or after this date.

Why Has Canada Changed The PGWP Requirements?

1.       Aligning Education with Labor Market Needs

By introducing field of study requirements for some programs, Canada is ensuring that international graduates in eligible, high-demand sectors can more easily access work opportunities. This helps address skills shortages in critical industries and supports Canada’s long-term economic goals.

2.       Enhancing Economic Contribution

The new requirements are designed to ensure that international graduates are better prepared to integrate into Canada’s labor market. By focusing on certain fields of study, the government is encouraging graduates to acquire the skills and qualifications most needed by Canadian employers.

3.       Managing the Volume of PGWP Applicants

With a growing number of international students, Canada may be tightening PGWP eligibility to manage the number of applicants and ensure that the program benefits those who are most likely to contribute effectively to the economy.

4.       Improving Immigration Pathways

By refining the eligibility requirements, Canada ensures that international graduates have the best possible chance of transitioning to permanent residency through programs like Express Entry, which are aligned with labor market priorities.

What is the PGWP?

The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) allows international graduates of eligible Canadian institutions to work in Canada for up to three years after completing their studies, helping them gain valuable Canadian work experience.

Who qualifies for the PGWP?

To qualify, you must have completed a program of study at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada that is at least eight months long and leads to a degree, diploma, or certificate.

Full-time Student Status Requirement

You must have been a full-time student during each academic session of your program, with some exceptions like study breaks or authorized leaves.

Application Deadline

You must apply for the PGWP within 180 days of receiving your official transcript and letter confirming program completion from your educational institution.

Language and Field of Study Requirements

As of November 1, 2024, language requirements vary by education level, and some graduates must complete an eligible field of study to qualify for the PGWP.