February 24th, 2024 at 03:43 am

Canada Announce New Changes to PGWP Starting from Feb 15, 2024

Starting on February 15, 2024, the Canada Post-Graduation Work Permit Program (PGWP) will undergo some major new modifications that you should be aware of. The value that master’s degree holders may bring to the Canadian labor market is being acknowledged by the government of Canada. Thus, the PGWP adjustments for 2024 are as follows:

When these reforms take effect, it will be even better for these grads because it will be a critical time for overseas students hoping to study and work in Canada.

Changes to the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program (PGWP)

According to these revised rules, students who have finished a master’s degree will still be qualified for a 3-year PGWP as of February 15, 2024, even if the program lasted two years or fewer. The government intends to encourage more seamless transitions into the Canadian Workforce and improve the chances of gaining permanent resident status in the nation by increasing the PGWP term for Master’s graduates.

This audacious decision demonstrates Canada’s dedication to luring and keeping outstanding talent from around the world, acknowledging the priceless abilities and knowledge that holders of master’s degrees bring to the table.

The establishment of this post-graduate work permit program offers a world of fascinating alternatives for prospective international students. It provides an extended runway to explore career options and get priceless professional experience in the Canadian setting.

Eligibility for Public-Private Partnership College Programs

The IRCC has put limits on PGWP for certain public-private partnership College cooperation programs in response to worries about the standard of instruction and student support at these establishments. Beginning on September 1, 2024, students enrolled in curriculum licensing agreement programs will no longer be able to access PGWP.

While newly enrolled international students in certain programs are not eligible for post-graduation work permits, currently enrolled international students are still eligible for a PGWP. The purpose of this regulation is to increase the likelihood that students will receive a quality education and succeed in their careers in the future.

There are now many more opportunities for overseas students who wish to study and work in Canada thanks to modifications made to the post-graduation work visa program. These adjustments ensure that the program operates well, promotes positive growth in Canada, and facilitates students’ employment opportunities following graduation.

It is essential to be knowledgeable and adhere to the updated qualifying requirements to optimize prospects for scholastic and career accomplishment in Canada.

Changes to Open Work Permit Eligibility for Spouses

Updates are also being made on who is eligible for a work visa in Canada if they are the spouse, partner, or parent of an international student studying there. Soon, the only people eligible for a work permit will be the partners of graduate or professional degree candidates.

This means that their partner can still obtain a work permit if the student is enrolled in a higher level program, such as a master’s or doctorate, but if the student is enrolled in a lower level program, such as a bachelor’s or college diploma, their partner will only be eligible for a work permit after this open work permit eligibility update is made.

This is done to ensure that the student’s educational background corresponds with the employment opportunities available to their partner. Ensuring equity and providing equal opportunities to all individuals depending on their educational aspirations is paramount.

Cap and Provincial Attestation Letter

One notable modification to the regulations is the imposition of an annual ceiling on the number of new international students admitted to study in Canada. This cap will be around 360,000 permitted study permits in 2024, a 35% decrease from 2023.

With effect from January 22, 2024, the majority of newly admitted overseas students to colleges and universities must submit their applications with a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) from the province or territory in which they plan to study. This letter confirms that the relevant province or territory has granted the student permission to study in Canada.

This adjustment has been made to ensure that immigration procedures are followed and that Canada’s population is growing sustainably. It is recommended that prospective students become acquainted with the requirements for acquiring a PAL to expedite the application procedure for a study permit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who May Apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) in Canada?

Graduates from qualifying post-secondary educational institutions in Canada who completed a study program lasting at least eight months were eligible for the PGWP, providing they also fulfilled all other program requirements. However, Canada has changed the PGWP, thus starting on September 1, 2024, students enrolled in public-private partnership college programs will no longer be eligible for PGWP.

For what duration is the PGWP valid?

The length of the finished study program determines how long the post-graduation work permit (PGWP) is valid for.

What updates have been made to the PGWP Job?

With effect from February 15, 2024, the PGWP has recently undergone revisions that increase the work permit period for master’s degree program graduates to three years, regardless of the length of their study program.

Are there any limitations on eligibility for the PGWP?

Yes, depending on the level of the student program, limits may apply to graduates of public-private partnership College programs, some applicants for study permits, and the eligibility of a spouse for a work permit.