Introduction:
Attention all international students pursuing master’s degrees in Canada! We have some fantastic news to share. As of today, Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has expanded the eligibility criteria for post-graduation work permits (PGWP). Master’s students enrolled in programs less than two years in length are now eligible for a three-year work permit. This update recognizes the potential of master’s students in Canada’s labor market and offers them extended opportunities to gain valuable work experience. In this blog post, we will delve into the details of the new policy and discuss its implications for international students.
Expanded Eligibility for Master’s Students:
Previously, the duration of a PGWP was determined by the length of the study program. However, with the recent policy change, master’s students can now enjoy a three-year work permit regardless of the program’s length. This update reflects the confidence in the skills and abilities of master’s graduates to contribute to Canada’s workforce. It also aligns with the objective of attracting and retaining top international talent in the country.
Impact on Other Programs:
For students enrolled in programs other than master’s degrees, the length of the PGWP will still correspond to the duration of their study program, up to a maximum of three years. This means that undergraduate students, for example, will continue to be eligible for work permits corresponding to the length of their program.
Spousal Work Permit Changes:
In addition to the PGWP update, IRCC is also making changes to spousal work permits for international students. Under the new rules, only spouses of master’s and doctoral students will be eligible to apply for a spousal work permit. This change aims to align the spousal work permit policy with the focus on higher-level education and research. It’s important to note that these changes will not affect spousal open work permits for the spouses or conjugal partners of Canadian citizens or permanent residents.
PGWP Eligibility Criteria:
To be eligible for a PGWP, international students must meet certain criteria:
Completion of studies: The student must have completed a program of study that is at least eight months long at an eligible Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
Degree, diploma, or certificate: The program of study should lead to the issuance of a degree, diploma, or certificate.
Full-time student status: The student must have maintained full-time student status during each academic session of the program.
Transcript and confirmation letter: The student must provide a transcript and an official letter from the DLI confirming program completion.
Eligible educational institutions: The program must be completed at a public post-secondary institution, private post-secondary institution (in Quebec), or a Canadian private school authorized to award degrees.
Note: Starting September 2024, students attending programs utilizing a curriculum licensing framework will no longer be eligible to apply for a PGWP.
Conclusion:
The recent expansion of post-graduation work permit eligibility for master’s students in Canada is a game-changer for international students seeking to enhance their career prospects. This policy recognizes the value and potential of master’s graduates in the Canadian labor market. As an international student pursuing a master’s degree, you now have the opportunity to gain three years of valuable work experience in Canada. Be sure to stay updated with the latest information from IRCC and consult with your educational institution’s international student services to make the most of this exciting opportunity.