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New Changes to Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Eligibility Requirements: What You Need to Know



The Government of Canada has announced several changes to the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligibility criteria, effective November 1, 2024. These updates aim to better align the program with labor market needs and immigration goals. If you are an international student planning to apply for a PGWP, it’s essential to understand these new requirements to ensure you are eligible. This blog post outlines the key changes and what you need to keep in mind before submitting your application.

What Hasn’t Changed

The core eligibility requirements for the PGWP remain the same. To be eligible, you must:

  1. Complete a study program at a PGWP-eligible designated learning institution.

  2. Meet the general and physical location eligibility requirements.

  3. Apply for the PGWP before the expiration of your study permit.

If you apply for a PGWP before November 1, 2024, you only need to meet the current eligibility criteria. The new changes will not apply to you if you submit your study permit application before this date or if you are a graduate from a PGWP-eligible flight school.

What Has Changed

For applications submitted on or after November 1, 2024, new eligibility requirements will apply:

  1. Language Requirements All PGWP applicants must provide proof of their language proficiency. You will need to demonstrate your skills in four areas—reading, writing, listening, and speaking—by taking an approved language test. The accepted tests include:

    • For English: CELPIP (General), IELTS (General Training), or PTE (Core).

    • For French: TEF Canada or TCF Canada.

    Your language test results must be less than 2 years old when you submit your PGWP application. The language level requirements are based on the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) for English and the Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadien (NCLC) for French.

  2. Field of Study Requirements To qualify for a PGWP, you must graduate from a study program in a field linked to certain occupations in long-term shortage. These fields are divided into five categories:

    • Agriculture and Agri-Food

    • Healthcare

    • Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)

    • Trades

    • Transport

    This change ensures that PGWP holders have the skills needed to fill gaps in Canada’s labor market.

  3. Proof of Language Ability When applying, you must provide your test results, which assess your proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. The following language tests are accepted for PGWP eligibility:

    • For English: CELPIP-General, IELTS General Training, PTE Core.

    • For French: TEF Canada, TCF Canada.

Preparing for the Changes

If you are planning to apply for a PGWP after November 1, 2024, it is important to:

  • Take an approved language test in advance to ensure your results are ready when you submit your application.

  • Check if your program aligns with the designated fields of study required for PGWP eligibility.

  • Stay informed about any further changes or updates from Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

For more information and the latest updates, visit the official IRCC website at this link: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/study-canada/work/after-graduation/eligibility/study-requirements.html

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These new eligibility criteria are aimed at ensuring that PGWP holders can effectively contribute to Canada’s economy and meet labor market needs. Be sure to review the requirements carefully to ensure your application is successful.

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