Canada Prolongs Work Permit Validity In Immigration Overhaul

In a significant policy adjustment, the Canadian government has modified the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Program, bringing relief to individuals aspiring to settle in the country, particularly those who have completed master’s degree programs for international students.

The Department of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conveyed through its social media platform, formerly Twitter, that starting from February 15th this year, graduates of master’s degree programs will now be eligible for a three-year PGWP, even if their program duration was less than two years.

Read more: Canada Approves PTE Core For Immigration Routes

This alteration in policy underscores Canada’s acknowledgment of the potential contribution of master’s degree graduates to the country’s labor market and their likelihood to transition to permanent residency. The revised policy aims to afford these graduates an extended period to acquire valuable work experience, a pivotal factor often required for pursuing permanent residency in Canada.

As outlined on the official IRCC website, applicants are now able to apply for a three-year PGWP, irrespective of the duration of their master’s degree program.It is crucial to note that the extension of PGWP validity to three years is not exclusive to master’s degree graduates; it also applies to graduates of all other eligible programs. This policy shift underscores Canada’s commitment to attracting and retaining skilled international talent, further solidifying its standing as a preferred destination for higher education and career prospects.

However, it is essential to highlight that the IRCC has imposed restrictions on PG work permits for public-private partnership college programs due to concerns related to education quality and insufficient student support. Nonetheless, international students currently enrolled in these institutions remain eligible for a PGWP, provided they meet other program eligibility criteria.

These adjustments in policy come in the wake of Canada’s recent announcement regarding its international student policy, which involves a 35 percent reduction in their intake. The modifications to the PGWP program align with Canada’s ongoing efforts to refine its immigration policies and foster an environment that attracts and retains a diverse pool of skilled individuals from around the world.