Maple News reports that Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is preparing to conduct the first comprehensive review of the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program in over a decade, as part of broader reforms to the International Student Program. These reforms aim to protect students, ensure program integrity, and better align immigration pathways with the needs of Canada’s evolving labour market.
The IRCC announced on October 27 that it will be implementing significant changes in the coming months. Among the new measures, Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) will be required to electronically confirm each applicant’s letter of acceptance directly with IRCC. This verification step is designed to help combat fraud by ensuring that only genuine letters are considered for study permit approvals.
By the fall semester of 2024, IRCC plans to introduce a new “recognized institution” framework. Under this model, DLIs that meet high standards of integrity and student support will benefit from faster processing times for study permit applications. The framework is intended to elevate educational quality and improve the experience for international students.
In conjunction with these changes, the IRCC will also be evaluating the eligibility criteria and structure of the PGWP. The review will focus on ensuring that the program supports Canada’s labour market demands, addresses regional shortages, and meets Francophone immigration objectives. These reforms may better connect international student graduates with long-term immigration opportunities and employment prospects in Canada.
The PGWP allows international graduates of eligible Canadian post-secondary institutions to work in Canada for up to three years, depending on the length of their academic program. Open and flexible, the permit lets graduates work for any employer and across various industries.
Canadian work experience gained through a PGWP is a major asset when applying for permanent residency. Many immigration pathways, including Express Entry, reward candidates who have studied and worked in Canada. Typically, PGWP holders need at least one year of experience in a skilled occupation (National Occupational Classification codes 0, A, or B) to qualify for permanent residency.
To be eligible for a PGWP, applicants must have completed a qualifying program at a recognized DLI and meet several requirements regarding program length and study status. Details of any updates to these criteria will emerge as IRCC completes its review.
The upcoming changes reflect Canada’s commitment to maintaining a high-quality, secure, and economically relevant international education system. As the country continues to welcome global talent, these adjustments aim to strengthen pathways from student life to permanent settlement.
Stay tuned as Maple News continues to provide updates on upcoming reforms to Canada’s international student and work permit programs.