Starting from November 1, 2024, Canada has announced new rules for international students aiming to get a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).
This change will impact students graduating from specific programs and fields, especially those aligned with Canada’s labor market needs, such as healthcare, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), and skilled trades.
Under the new rules, only students from recognized or approved programs in these key fields will be eligible to apply for a PGWP. Canada’s goal is to attract talent that can contribute directly to the country’s critical industries and support its economic growth.
Additionally, these students will need to meet a minimum language requirement in either English or French to qualify for the PGWP. This requirement will help ensure that international graduates have a strong command of the language needed for workplace communication and integration.
For students already studying in Canada or those who applied for a study permit before November 1, 2024, there is some relief. They won’t be affected by the new program restrictions but will still need to meet the updated language proficiency requirements when applying for their PGWP.
These changes reflect Canada’s focus on streamlining immigration policies to address labor shortages in high-demand sectors while ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for the Canadian job market.