Post Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) – Latest Update by IRCC
With the recent guidelines and curbs laid down by IRCC one after the other (e.g., doubling of GIC, capping study visa etc.), the release on the news about PGWP has turned out to be slightly in contrast & welcoming. The big update is that – starting Feb 15th this year, students who graduate from Master’s Degree programs of less than 2 years (8 months minimum) can now become eligible for a 3-year PGWP. The purpose behind the earlier (bold) announcements was to be able to support sustainable population growth in the country and enhance system integrity, which would help in ensuring that international students have a positive experience in Canada.
Also, what needs to be kept in mind is –
- Each of the programs completed must be PGWP eligible & at least 8 months (or 900 hours for Quebec credentials) in length. Earlier, if the program was at least 8 months (or 900 hours for Quebec credentials), but less than 2 years – then a PGWP was offered up to the same length as the study program. For example, if it’s a 9-month program, then the work permit was given for up to 9 months. However, having the view that master’s aspirants supposedly outperform consistently in the Canadian labor market, thus IRCC has chosen to extend the eligibility to facilitate longer work permits.
- Furthermore, the PGWP length will depend on the level and duration of the curriculum, after taking into account the expiry date of the applicant’s passport (whichever comes earlier). In the rare scenario that the passport lapses before the PGWP, one must ensure that the passport validity gets extended, otherwise a notification will be sent to apply for an extension, so that the full length gets utilized.
- If your program is less than 8 months (or 900 hours for Quebec credentials). You aren’t eligible for a PGWP.
Prior to the 15th of this month, the length of an issued PGWP was correlated with the length of a program of study. However, in recognition that master’s students are placed to perform well in Canada’s labour market, Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has chosen to expand the eligibility for these students to receive longer work permits.
In line with the recent amendments as stated above, it is likely that Indian students who plan to go there for achieving higher academic credentials might notice a few changes. These might turn out to be of benefit to them in the longer run. They could range from –
- Extended Work Permit Duration
- Rise in Post-Graduation Opportunities
- Career Advancement
The government of Canada in its latest update, has said that if a student has graduated from a DLI (Designated Learning Institution) and has the desire to reside in their country for a finite period of time to work, then the person can be eligible for the same (with C$255 fee deposit & 101-day processing time). However, what they have clarified is that this does not apply automatically and those desirous should be aware of the conditions that apply. Thus, it is always recommended to Check the DLI list, who have been given this privilege.
Finally, there are a few exceptions that can fall into the category of PGWP. Broadly speaking, they can either be Accelerated programs, Distance learning, Leave from studies, School transfers, International study transfers, Flight school graduates or a few selected schools in Quebec, as well as Master’s degree graduate programs.
Note: IRCC has made this update after the major announcement about the topic pertaining to Student Visas / Permits (i.e. restricting the number to 3,60,000 per annum for the calendar years of 2024 & 2025), there seems to be a sigh of relief for few – which we believe is just the beginning. As we progress further, we are highly positive that the highest authority will come up with more such updates that will make things brighter and smooth for the forthcoming aspirants, who have their eyes set for none other than the maple nation of Canada.
