Maple News reports that Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has released a key update regarding eligibility for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). Students who applied for a study permit before November 1, 2024, will not be subject to the new field of study requirements when applying for a PGWP—even if their PGWP application happens after that date.
Previously, IRCC had announced that exemptions from new rules would apply only to those who submitted their PGWP applications before November 1, 2024. However, updated official guidance now clarifies that the decisive factor is the date on which the study permit application was filed—not the PGWP application.
This change provides much-needed clarity and relief to international students who began preparing for their studies in Canada prior to November, particularly those attending college and vocational programs which are most affected by the new field of study criteria.
Importantly, all PGWP applicants—regardless of when they applied for their study permit—must meet enhanced language proficiency requirements. These include demonstrating English or French proficiency through an IRCC-approved language test. Results must meet a minimum of Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) or Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens (NCLC) levels, depending on the type of program completed.
The IRCC states that:
– University graduates at the bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral levels require CLB/NCLC level 7 proficiency in all four language skills (reading, writing, listening, and speaking).
– Graduates of other university-level programs also need CLB/NCLC level 7 in all four abilities.
– College and non-university program graduates must demonstrate at least CLB/NCLC level 5 in all categories.
Notably, university-level graduates (bachelor’s degree and higher) are exempt from the field of study requirement altogether, no matter their application timeline. Field-of-study restrictions only apply to college and non-university vocational training programs.
This clarification offers a smoother path for many international students planning their education and future careers in Canada. It also highlights the importance of staying up to date with evolving IRCC policies, especially as Canada continues to adjust its approach to immigration and labor market alignment.