As of February 15, 2024, the Government of Canada introduced significant changes to the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program, impacting the eligibility criteria and validity periods for international students wishing to work in Canada after completing their studies. These changes aim to attract and retain skilled graduates while ensuring the integrity of the immigration system. Here’s a comprehensive guide to understanding the updated PGWP program in Canada.
1. Eligibility Criteria:
Students who have completed a master’s degree program, even if it’s under two years in duration, now qualify for a three-year PGWP, provided they meet all other eligibility criteria. However, starting September 1, 2024, students enrolled in curriculum licensing agreement programs; also known as ‘Public Private Institution’ (PPP), will no longer be eligible for a PGWP. Prospective applicants need to review the designated learning institution (DLI) list to ensure their institution and program are eligible for the PGWP.
Campuses and Institutions Affected (Mainly Ontario)
- Algonquin College – CDI Campus in Mississauga and North York
- Cambrian College – Hanson campus, Brampton and North York
- Canadore College – Stanford campus in Mississauga, Scarborough, Brampton
- Fanshawe College – Ilac Campus in Toronto
- Fleming College – Toronto Campus with Trebas Institute Ontario
- Georgian College – Ilac Campus in Toronto
- Loyalist College – Toronto campus
- Lambton College – Mississauga and Toronto campuses
- Mohawk College – triOS campus in Mississauga
- Northern College at Pures – Toronto Campus
- Niagara College – Toronto School of Management (TSoM) Campus in Toronto
- St. Clair College at Acumen – Toronto, Mississauga, and Brampton
- Sheridan College at CCTT – Fort Erie Campus
- Sault College – triOS campus in Toronto and Brampton
- St. Lawrence – Alpha College Of Business & Technology Campus in Toronto
2. Duration and Validity:
The length of the PGWP depends on the level and duration of the study program, as well as the expiry date of the passport, whichever comes first. For master’s degree programs, graduates from programs of at least eight months in length (or 900 hours for Quebec credentials) are eligible for a three-year PGWP, regardless of the duration of the master’s program. However, this extension does not apply to certificate or diploma programs.
3. Application Process:
Applicants are permitted to work in Canada while awaiting the processing of their PGWP, provided they submitted their application before the expiration of their student permit. There’s a 180-day window within which applicants must apply for the PGWP from the date of completing their study program. Additionally, applicants can now apply for a PGWP from abroad if they leave Canada after completing their education.
4. Passport Expiry and PGWP Validity:
In cases where the passport expires before the PGWP, the permit issued will only be valid until the passport’s expiry date. Applicants will be notified if they need to extend their passport to obtain the full validity of the PGWP. Extensions for PGWP validity are typically granted if instructed by the authorities, requiring applicants to apply through paper submission.
In conclusion, the recent changes to Canada’s PGWP program signify the government’s commitment to attracting and retaining international talent. These updates provide enhanced opportunities for skilled graduates to gain valuable work experience in Canada. However, it’s crucial for applicants to carefully review eligibility criteria, stay informed about any further updates, and ensure compliance with all requirements throughout the application process.
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