Starting November 1, 2024, Canada’s Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will implement new rules for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program. These changes introduce stricter eligibility criteria for applicants.
Key Updates to PGWP Eligibility Requirements
- New Language Proficiency Standards
- Field of Study Restrictions
- Proof of Language Proficiency
New Language Proficiency Standards
One of the main changes is the new language proficiency requirements, which vary depending on the type of degree or diploma:
| Program Type | English Requirement | French Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| University bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degrees | CLB 7 in all skills | NCLC 7 in all skills |
| Other university programs | CLB 7 in all skills | NCLC 7 in all skills |
| College programs and other types | CLB 5 in all skills | NCLC 5 in all skills |
Field of Study Restrictions for Certain PGWP Applicants
Another significant change is the introduction of the field of study requirements for certain graduates. University bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral graduates face no restrictions on their field of study. However, graduates from other university programs, as well as college graduates and those from other program types, must graduate from an eligible field of study.
Eligibility if you applied before November 1, 2024
| Graduate Category | Language Requirement |
|---|---|
| Bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree from a university | Minimum CLB 7 in English or NCLC 7 in French in all 4 areas |
| Other university programs | Minimum CLB 7 in English or NCLC 7 in French in all 4 areas |
| College programs or other programs not listed | Minimum CLB 5 in English or NCLC 5 in French in all 4 areas |
Eligibility if you apply on or after November 1, 2024
| Graduate Category | Language Requirement | Field of Study Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree from a university | Minimum CLB 7 in English or NCLC 7 in French in all 4 areas | No restrictions on field of study |
| Other university programs | Minimum CLB 7 in English or NCLC 7 in French in all 4 areas | Must graduate in an eligible field of study |
| College programs or other programs not listed | Minimum CLB 5 in English or NCLC 5 in French in all 4 areas | Must graduate in an eligible field of study |
If your study program has a field of study requirement, you must graduate from a program connected to occupations with long-term shortages. These fields are categorized into five broad groups:
- Agriculture and agri-food
- Healthcare
- Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM)
- Trade
- Transport
The Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) is used to categorize post-secondary education programs by field of study in Canada. You can find your CIP here.
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Proof of Language Proficiency
Applicants must provide language test results that are less than two years old at the time of PGWP application. Accepted tests include:
| English Tests | French Tests |
|---|---|
CELPIP: Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program
|
TEF Canada: Test d’évaluation de français |
IELTS: International English Language Testing System
|
TCF Canada: Test de connaissance du français |
PTE Core: Pearson Test of English
|
What Remains Unchanged
It’s important to note that some aspects of the PGWP program remain the same:
- General and physical location eligibility requirements still apply.
- Applicants must complete their study program at a PGWP-eligible designated learning institution.
- Applications submitted before November 1, 2024, will be assessed under the current eligibility criteria.
- Graduates from PGWP-eligible flight schools will continue to be assessed under the current criteria, even after November 1, 2024.
Impact on International Students and Canadian Immigration
The new rules signal a big change in how Canada wants to keep international talent. By adding language proficiency requirements and field of study restrictions, the government aims to make sure PGWP recipients are ready to join the Canadian workforce and help in areas with labour shortages. For future international students, these changes highlight the need for careful planning. When choosing their programs, students should consider these new rules to prepare for their careers in Canada.
Preparing for the New PGWP Requirements
As these changes come into effect, international students and graduates should take steps to meet the new criteria:
- Improve language skills well before applying for a PGWP.
- Select study programs that fit the eligible fields of study, especially for non-bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral programs.
- Stay updated on any new information or clarifications from IRCC about these changes.
Take Professional Help from Licensed Consultants
Navigating these new PGWP regulations can be complex. If you’re an international student or recent graduate looking to work in Canada, our team of experts is here to help. Led by Keshav Sharma, a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC), we offer comprehensive support and guidance through the PGWP application process.
Don’t let these changes catch you off guard. Contact us today to ensure your post-graduation plans in Canada remain on track.
