Maple News reports that Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has released updated guidelines that clarify how Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWPs) are issued to international students who complete more than one eligible study program in Canada.
Previously, it wasn’t clear how IRCC calculated PGWP duration for students who pursued multiple programs. The new guidance, effective from November 1, 2024, introduces more transparency and structure, especially for those engaging in what’s referred to as “program stacking.”
Program stacking occurs when a student completes two or more eligible programs from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). According to IRCC, students can now combine the duration of multiple PGWP-eligible programs—as long as each program is at least 8 months long and both are completed within two years of each other.
Under these new rules, international graduates may be eligible for a PGWP valid for up to three years, depending on the total length of the programs. This marks a significant shift, as it allows students more flexibility in planning their education and future work experience in Canada.
However, it’s important to note that both programs must meet PGWP eligibility requirements. If a student completes only one PGWP-eligible program alongside another that is not eligible, the work permit will be based solely on the PGWP-eligible program, regardless of the total duration of both programs.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
– Completing two PGWP-eligible programs qualifies you for a PGWP based on the combined duration.
– Completing one PGWP-eligible and one ineligible program? Only the eligible program counts toward your PGWP length.
This update provides much-needed clarity for international students planning to extend their stay and work in Canada after graduation. With the opportunity to benefit from stacked program durations, students may now feel more empowered to pursue multiple academic opportunities without compromising their future work eligibility.
As Canada continues to position itself as a top destination for global talent, particularly through its post-graduation work options, these changes further support international graduates in gaining Canadian work experience—a key pathway to permanent residency through various immigration streams.