Changes made in Canada in PGWP for International Students

What is PGWP?

A post-graduation work permit (PGWP) is an unrestricted work permit issued to international students upon finishing their studies in Canada. PGWP holders have the freedom to work anywhere in Canada for any employer without any restrictions on the number of hours.

The duration of your PGWP is determined by factors such as the level and duration of your study program, as well as the expiration date of your passport, whichever comes first.

The changes implemented by the Canadian Government

The Government of Canada has applied changes to its post-graduation work permit (PGWP), starting on February 15, 2024. The changes are as follows:

• International students who have completed their Master’s, even under two years, will now qualify for a 3-year PGWP. (They still need to be eligible.)

• Also, starting on September 1, 2024, students who are enrolled in the Curriculum Licensing Agreement will no longer be eligible for PGWP.

• Special measures for distance learning and PGWP validity have been extended until August 31, 2024.

Are all international students eligible for a PGWP?

You could qualify for a PGWP if you completed your studies at a designated learning institution (DLI) and wish to remain in Canada temporarily for employment purposes. A DLI refers to a school authorized by a provincial or territorial government in Canada to accommodate international students.

However, graduating from a DLI does not automatically guarantee eligibility for a PGWP. It’s important to consult the DLI list to identify which schools offer eligible programs.

Who is eligible for a longer post-graduation work permit?

Graduates of programs lasting at least two years at designated learning institutions (DLIs) eligible for PGWP, as well as graduates of master’s degree programs shorter than 2 years, are eligible for a 3-year PGWP.

For the master’s degree program

While shorter programs (8 months or 900 hours) qualify master’s graduates for a 3-year PGWP, other programs also qualify at different lengths (e.g., diplomas at 1 year).

What is the processing time to get a PGWP?

There is a 180-day window during which you must apply for your PGWP for the date you finish your study program. Applicants can also work in Canada while waiting for their PGWP to be processed, given that they have submitted their application before their study permit has expired.