The Post Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) policy in Canada has been updated by the Government to support sustainable, long-term population growth and enhance the reliability of the system. This initiative aims to provide a positive experience for international students studying in Canada, as per the official website.
As announced on social media platform X by the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), starting February 15, 2024, changes will be implemented for graduates of master’s degree programs under the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program (PGWPP).
Under the revised policy, graduates of master’s degree programs in Canada, even if the program duration is less than two years, may now qualify for a three-year work permit upon graduation.
The adjustment in the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) duration is a response to the increasing number of international students choosing Canada for higher education. The objective is to offer graduates of master’s degree programs extended time to acquire the necessary work experience for permanent residency applications, as outlined on the official website.
Effective February 15, 2024, students completing master’s degree programs shorter than two years can apply for a three-year post-graduation work permit, provided they meet all other PGWP eligibility criteria.
To qualify for a PGWP in Canada, individuals must meet specific requirements, including completing programs of at least two years at designated learning institutions eligible for the PGWP, leading to a 3-year permit. Similarly, graduates of master’s degree programs lasting less than two years are now eligible for the extended 3-year PGWP. International students enrolled in public-private partnership college programs may also be eligible, subject to meeting additional criteria. However, candidates pursuing diploma or certificate programs are not eligible for the PGWP.
According to the official guidelines, individuals can apply for a 3-year PGWP even if their master’s program was under 2 years, provided they satisfy all other eligibility conditions, such as a minimum program duration of 8 months. This exemption does not apply to certificate or diploma programs.
Students currently enrolled in a PG program at a designated learning institute (DLI) in Canada are eligible to apply for the Post Graduate Work Permit. For detailed eligibility information, refer to the official website.