Canada has recently updated new regulation regarding its Post-Graduation Work Permit Program which is implemented from November 1, 2024. This program enables students who have studied in Canada to work in that country. All these changes are made in a bid to ensure the PGWP system is relevant to the Canadian labour market demands. Here’s a simple breakdown of the updated requirements:
Language Requirements
As mentioned in this article, even to gain access to the PGWP, new requirements for language test have now been introduced. This makes possible the sort of communication skills needed for Canadian jobs. CELPIP, IELTS or PTE would be valid for English; TEF Canada, TCF Canada, NCLC for French. These language test results may not be older than 24 months.
Course Requirements
The PGWP is now favourably positioned for students in disciplines under Martial arts’s worker shortage in Canada. These fields are agriculture, health care, science, technology engineering and math education (STEM), trades and transport. These areas have been prioritized in order to meet crucial needs for skills in sectors that are essential for Canada’s economy.
Application Process Changes
The PGWP application must also be filled online and the student does not need to be in the country to do this. Canada’s port of entry used to be the place where applicants could fill out their applications on site. For jobs that require a medical exam students may undertake the exam up to 90 days before applying for the PGWP.
Student Status Guidelines
However, if a student has allowed their study permit to expire before applying for the PGWP, they will be offered 90 days within which to reinstate their student status. Indeed, they need to accompany their application for the PGWP with the applicable fees during this period. However, they cannot start to work until they get their study and work permits which they apply from the immigration office.
Unchanged Criteria for PGWP
Nevertheless, the following are the aspect that has not significantly changed on the requirements of the PGWP. Candidates must still graduate from an approved learning institution in Canada to elate their qualification. These guidelines apply to all students who intend to work in Canada once they leave school.
These changes affect anyone that is planning to pursue their studies in Canada or those intending to study then work in Canada, having information regarding the changes of requirements will ease their transition.
