Maple News reports that international students graduating from master’s or PhD programs in Canada now have an improved pathway to Canadian permanent residence (PR) thanks to a newly updated work permit policy.
Effective February 15, 2024, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) implemented a significant change to the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program. Under this policy, international students who complete a master’s degree at a Canadian Designated Learning Institution (DLI) are now eligible for a three-year PGWP — regardless of whether the program lasts fewer than two years.
Previously, PGWP durations depended strictly on the length of the study program. A one-year master’s program, for example, would only result in a one-year work permit. This limited the amount of Canadian work experience graduates could gain, directly impacting their ability to qualify for PR through programs like Express Entry.
The expansion of the three-year PGWP for all master’s graduates allows international students to accumulate more work experience within Canada — a valuable asset when applying for permanent residence. Many immigration pathways prioritize candidates with Canadian work experience, offering them additional points under systems like the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) in Express Entry.
According to Maple News, single candidates with Canadian work experience can gain at least 80 extra CRS points, greatly enhancing their chances of receiving an invitation to apply for PR. Those applying with a spouse or common-law partner may see different point allocations, but Canadian experience remains a major advantage.
This policy shift is part of a broader strategy by the Canadian government to refine the international student system. Originally announced on January 22, 2024, alongside other reforms, the updated PGWP rules aim to retain top talent trained in Canada by providing a more reliable transition from study to work to PR.
Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) — the only schools authorized to host international students — will be critical players in this transition, as only graduates from these institutions will be eligible for the extended PGWP.
The move is seen as a positive development for both students and policymakers, helping to align academic pathways with immigration goals. By enabling master’s and PhD graduates to stay and work longer, Canada strengthens its position as a global destination for high-caliber international talent.