Canada PGWP 2024: All You Need to Know About New Changes
If you are an international student planning to study in Canada, a Post-Graduation Work Permit or PGWP is the best option for you. It lets you stay in the country and work after completing your graduation, which enables you to have work experience and increases your opportunity to get permanent residency. The Canadian government has made a few significant changes to the PGWP in 2024, aiming to better match this program with the needs of Canada's labour market. Here's everything you need to know about changes in the PGWP, PGWP eligibility, PGWP requirements, and how such changes may shape your future in Canada.
About Canada PGWP 2024
The PGWP Canada program is generally for those individuals who have graduated from accredited Canadian educational institutions. The period of the work permit is determined by the length of the program you completed, and it can be valid for up to three years. It is an open work visa, which means that you can work for any employer in Canada and swap jobs without getting additional permits.
A pathway to permanent residency in Canada is through the PGWP, as work experience under this permit can help make graduates eligible for immigration programs such as the Canadian Experience Class by way of the Express Entry system. Thousands of international students start their careers every year using the PGWP.
Also Read:- How to Extend Your Canada Visa: What You Need to Know?
Requirements of PGWP
To be eligible to apply for the PGWP in 2024, you will be required to meet certain criteria. These are as follows:
Graduate from a designated learning institution (DLI): The program that you have completed must be from a school or institution that is recognized by the government of Canada as a DLI.
Duration of the study program: The program must be at least eight months long and conclude with a degree, diploma, or certificate.
Study full-time: You must have studied full-time in each term of study. There are some exceptions if you studied part-time in your final term.
Application deadline: You must request the PGWP within 180 days (about six months) of receiving your final transcript or graduation confirmation.
Another requirement is to possess a valid study permit at the application time, or have been issued a valid study permit within 180 days before the submission of the application.
Canada PGWP Changes
The PGWP program has undergone significant major changes in 2024. The updates have emphasized the labour market demands about ensuring that the PGWP is aligned with the economic needs of Canada. Below are the highlights:
Field-related Eligibility:
One of the most crucial changes is that the PGWP will be more closely tied to the field of study in which a student was admitted. While all DLI students were previously eligible, the changes that will take effect in 2024 will require students to enrol in programs that line up with sectors where Canada has recognized long-term labour shortages. This move is to attract more graduates whose skills are increasingly in high demand, either in healthcare, technology, or engineering.
Language Eligibility:
Beginning from November 1, 2024, language requirements for all PGWP applicants will be established. To be eligible for the PGWP, international students must have a minimum level of competence in one of Canada's two official languages, English or French. The changes are made to ensure that overseas students are prepared to enter the Canadian labour field, as well as to improve graduates' capacity to communicate in one of the country's two official languages.
Study Permit Caps:
The introduction of a limit on the number of study permits issued annually in Canada will have an impact on the number of study permit holders who eventually become PGWP holders. This reduction will try to control the international student inflow and ensure they can be employed in industries in need of their experience, although not directly related to PGWP.
Conclusion
All these changes in the PGWP 2024 in Canada are intended to fit the expectations of the Canadian labour market. The approach is expected to increase the relevancy of the program for sectors that face a scarcity of workforce. Such changes should therefore not be overlooked by students who are planning to pursue higher education in Canada, as well as, making the right decisions for their career in Canada. So as long as students are fully aware of the changes and the subjects they opt to complete their degrees in are in demand in the Canadian labour market, the PGWP remains a useful stepping stone to permanent residence and a lucrative job in Canada.
Make sure you read up on possible changes to the PGWP or other immigration rules before moving to Canada.
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