Work in Canada
IRCC Introduces New Criteria for Post-Graduation Work Permits 2024
In a recent announcement on January 22nd, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) introduced strategic changes aimed at maintaining a balanced rise of international students in 2024. These adjustments extend to the eligibility criteria for the coveted Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) 2024, to create a more controlled environment for international students.
IRCC’s Initiative: Post-Graduation Work Permit 2024
To harmonize with the evolving landscape, IRCC has updated the eligibility criteria for the PGWP, effective September 2024. A notable change is the exclusion of international students enrolled in study programs under curriculum licensing agreements from PGWP eligibility. These agreements involve private colleges licensed to deliver public college curricula, posing challenges in oversight and accountability.
This move is a strategic response to situations like Northern College’s revocation of 500 admission offers in October 2023, citing housing and job shortages for international students. By narrowing PGWP eligibility, IRCC aims to address such concerns and foster a more controlled environment for international students in Canada.
Extended Work Permits for Short Graduate Programs
In another significant development, IRCC has plans to grant graduates of master’s and other short graduate-level programs a 3-year work permit. This shift aims to rectify the current limitation, where PGWP duration is tied to the length of the study program. As master’s programs are generally shorter, this adjustment opens the gates for prolonged Canadian work experience.
International Students to Work On Campus While in Canada
- On-Campus Employment: Current regulations allow international students with a valid study permit to work on campus without needing an additional permit.
Key requirements include full-time enrollment and possession of a Social Insurance Number.
- Off-Campus Work Opportunities: Typically, international students can work off-campus without a separate permit during their studies. Conditions vary based on the lifting of the 20-hour rule, requiring a valid Canadian study permit in a designated learning institution.
- Work Requirements in Study Programs: Certain study programs, such as those with co-op or internships, may require a work permit for international students to fulfill these obligations.
- International Experience Canada 2024: This program enables international students aged 18 to 35, with a bilateral agreement between their country of origin and Canada, to travel and work for up to 1 year.
PGWP Eligibility Criteria 2024
To be eligible for a PGWP, international students must fulfill several criteria, including completing studies at an eligible Designated Learning Institution (DLI). The study program should lead to a degree, diploma, or certificate, with full-time student status maintained throughout each academic session. Additionally, graduates must provide transcripts and an official letter from the DLI confirming program completion.
According to November 2023 data from IRCC, 62,410 international student graduates successfully transitioned to permanent residency in Canada. This marked a significant increase from 52,740 individuals in 2022, showcasing the growing appeal of Canada as a destination for international students seeking permanent residency.
The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
The PGWP serves as an open work permit, allowing international graduates to work for any Canadian employer without the need for a job offer. While the standard validity is up to three years, the actual duration depends on the length of the completed study program. This work permit is instrumental in providing valuable Canadian work experience, a crucial factor when graduates pursue permanent resident status.
As proposed changes unfold, staying informed is crucial for PGWP students in Canada. These adjustments, designed to address specific challenges, highlight the importance of keeping abreast of immigration policies. In our next post, we’ll delve into insights into how these changes may shape the future of international education in Canada.
