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New Eligibility Requirements for Post-Graduation Work Permits

Post graduate work permit – Eligibility

Canada has always been a top destination for international students looking to pursue higher education and gain valuable work experience through the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program (PGWP). With recent changes coming into effect on November 1, 2024, students will now face updated eligibility requirements that will impact their applications. In this blog post, we break down the key changes, helping you prepare for your study permit or PGWP application under the new guidelines.

Key Changes to PGWP Eligibility After November 1, 2024

Language Requirements: New for Study Permit Applicants

Starting November 1, 2024, proof of language ability will be a mandatory requirement when submitting your PGWP application. The Canadian government has outlined specific benchmarks to assess English or French language skills.

For English, students must meet the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB), while for French, the Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadien (NCLC) will be used.

You will need to demonstrate your proficiency in four essential areas:

  • Reading
  • Writing
  • Listening
  • Speaking

Your language test results must be less than two years old at the time of submission. Accepted language tests include:

  • CELPIP-General: Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program
  • IELTS General Training: International English Language Testing System
  • PTE Core: Pearson Test of English Core Option
  • TEF Canada: Test d’évaluation de français
  • TCF Canada: Test de connaissance du français

These tests are crucial for proving your ability to thrive in Canada’s English or French-speaking environments, making this a critical step in your application process.

If you submitted your study permit application before November 1, 2024, and are applying for a PGWP on or after November 1, 2024, you must meet the new language requirement that applies to your situation

  • If you graduated with a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree from a university:
  • Must demonstrate English or French language skills with a minimum level of CLB 7 (English) or NCLC 7 (French) in all 4 language areas (reading, writing, listening, speaking).
  • If you graduated from any other university program:
  • Must prove English or French language skills with a minimum level of CLB 7 (English) or NCLC 7 (French) in all 4 language areas.
  • If you graduated from a college program or any other non-university program:
  • Must show English or French proficiency with a minimum level of CLB 5 (English) or NCLC 5 (French) in all 4 language areas.
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  • If you submit your study permit application on or after November 1, 2024, you must meet the new requirements for PGWP eligibility.

  • If you graduated from a university bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree program:

    • Language requirement: Must demonstrate English or French language skills with a minimum level of CLB 7 (English) or NCLC 7 (French) in all 4 language areas (reading, writing, listening, speaking).
    • Field of study requirement: All fields of study are eligible; no additional field of study requirement.

  • If you graduated from any other university program:

    • Language requirement: Must demonstrate English or French language skills with a minimum level of CLB 7 (English) or NCLC 7 (French) in all 4 language areas.
    • Field of study requirement: Must graduate in an eligible field of study.

  • If you graduated from a college program or any other non-university program:

    • Language requirement: Must prove English or French skills with a minimum level of CLB 5 (English) or NCLC 5 (French) in all 4 language areas.
    • Field of study requirement: Must graduate in an eligible field of study.

Field of Study Requirements: Addressing Canada’s Labour Shortages

Another significant change in the PGWP requirements is the introduction of a field of study requirement for certain programs. If your program of study is in a field linked to occupations facing long-term shortages in Canada, you may be eligible for streamlined processing.

The new field of study requirement applies to five major categories:

  1. Agriculture and Agri-Food

  2. Healthcare

  3. Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)

  4. Trades

  5. Transport

These categories reflect areas where Canada is experiencing labor shortages and actively seeks skilled graduates to fill critical roles. By focusing on these fields, you not only enhance your chances of securing a PGWP but also contribute to Canada’s long-term economic growth.

What If You Submitted Your Study Permit Before November 1, 2024?

If you applied for a study permit before the November 1, 2024 deadline, these new eligibility requirements do not apply to you. However, it is always beneficial to stay updated on immigration policies as they may impact your future status in Canada.

Preparing for the Changes

To ensure a smooth PGWP application process, here are some tips:

  • Take your language test early: Whether it’s CELPIP, IELTS, or one of the French tests, ensure your results are within the two-year validity period.
  • Research your field of study: Make sure your program aligns with one of the five in-demand fields to maximize your chances of securing a PGWP.
  • Consult with an immigration expert: Immigration policies are complex, and speaking to a consultant can help you navigate the new requirements.