For many international students, the term ‘PGWP’ brings with it a mix of excitement and anticipation. The prospect of obtaining a Post-Graduation Work Permit and staying in Canada to gain valuable work experience is an enticing opportunity for many. However, it’s important to stay up-to-date on the latest changes and developments. In this article, we’ll explore the most recent updates to the PGWP program and eligibility requirements.
The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is a permit issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) that allows international students who have graduated from a designated learning institution in Canada to gain valuable work experience by working for a Canadian employer. The PGWP is an attractive option for many international students, as it provides a pathway to permanent residency and helps to establish a career in Canada.
To be eligible for a PGWP, you must have graduated from a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada. The list of eligible DLIs is maintained by the IRCC, and it can be found on the IRCC website.
It’s important to verify that the institution you’re planning to attend is on this list, as this will ensure that you’re eligible for the PGWP upon graduation. In addition to being a graduate of an eligible program at a DLI, you may also be interested to know that the Canadian government has identified five priority fields of study for the PGWP program which are:
- STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics)
- Agriculture and Agri-Food
- Healthcare
- Trade
- Transport
Graduates in these fields may have an advantage when applying for a PGWP.
The Canadian government recently announced new changes to the PGWP program, which came into effect on November 1st, 2024. These changes affect students who apply for a PGWP on or after this date. For more information on the new eligibility requirements and priority fields visit the IRCC website.
https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/study-canada/work/after-graduation/eligibility.html#wb–auto-5
In addition to the information provided by the IRCC, some institutions have released their own lists of programs that are eligible for the PGWP. These lists can be found on the websites of individual universities and colleges. We recommend visiting the website of the institution you’re interested in to find out if your program is eligible for the PGWP.
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We’ll keep you informed on all the latest developments so you can make the best decisions about your education and career.