The Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has recently updated the eligibility criteria for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), introducing new guidelines that will affect international graduates starting November 1.
These changes include specific field of study requirements for certain programs, as well as language proficiency standards.
New Field of Study Requirements for PGWP
Starting November 1, international graduates in Canada must meet new field of study requirements to qualify for a Post-Graduation Work Permit. The eligible fields mirror the occupation-based categories introduced in Canada’s Express Entry system, focusing on national labour market needs.
The eligible fields include:
- Agriculture and Agri-Food
- Healthcare
- STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics)
- Trade
- Transport
PGWP-eligible programs are categorized under the Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP), which is similar to the National Occupation Classification (NOC) for jobs in Canada.
Here are some examples of eligible programs by field:
CIP 2021 Title | CIP 2021 Code | Field of Study Category |
---|---|---|
Agricultural business and management, general | 01.0101 | Agriculture and agri-food |
Animal/livestock husbandry and production | 01.0302 | Agriculture and agri-food |
Plant nursery operations and management | 01.0606 | Agriculture and agri-food |
Animal health | 01.0903 | Agriculture and agri-food |
Agronomy and crop science | 01.1102 | Agriculture and agri-food |
Special education and teaching, general | 13.1001 | Healthcare |
Exercise physiology | 26.0908 | Healthcare |
Physical therapy assistant | 51.0806 | Healthcare |
Polysomnography | 51.0917 | Healthcare |
Cytotechnology/cytotechnologist | 51.1002 | Healthcare |
Computer programming/programmer, general | 11.0201 | STEM |
Chemical engineering | 14.0701 | STEM |
Engineering mechanics | 14.1101 | STEM |
Water, wetlands and marine resources management | 03.0205 | STEM |
Computer graphics | 11.0803 | STEM |
Electrician | 46.0302 | Trade |
Heating, air conditioning, ventilation and refrigeration maintenance technology/technician | 47.0201 | Trade |
Machine tool technology/machinist | 48.0501 | Trade |
Insulator | 46.0414 | Trade |
Plumbing technology/plumber | 46.0503 | Trade |
Heavy equipment maintenance technology/technician | 47.0302 | Transport |
Air traffic controller | 49.0105 | Transport |
Truck and bus driver/commercial vehicle operator and instructor | 49.0205 | Transport |
Engineering Mechanics | 49.0108 | Transport |
Transportation and materials moving, other | 49.9999 | Transport |
For a more comprehensive list, applicants can visit IRCC’s official webpage.
Must Read: Canada Ends Port of Entry Applications for Post-Graduation Work Permits
How to Find Your CIP Code
To determine your CIP code, follow these steps:
- Visit Statistics Canada’s CIP 2021 webpage.
- Search for your program title using keywords or browse through the study categories.
- Once you find the relevant sub-category, click through to view more specific program options.
- The final page will detail instructional programs, including examples and exclusions, helping you identify the correct CIP code.
Language Requirements for PGWP
In addition to the field of study requirements, IRCC has introduced language proficiency requirements for PGWP applicants. These requirements vary depending on the level of study:
- University bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree: CLB 7 (English) or NCLC 7 (French) in all four language areas.
- Other university programs: CLB 7 (English) or NCLC 7 (French) in all four language areas, but the field of study must be eligible.
- College programs: CLB 5 (English) or NCLC 5 (French) in all four language areas, with eligibility based on field of study.
These changes apply to graduates applying for a PGWP after November 1, 2024. Those applying before this date are exempt from the field of study requirements but must still meet the language criteria.
Also Read: 5 Ways for International Students to Stay in Canada After Graduation
What is the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)?
The PGWP is a work permit that allows international graduates from eligible Canadian institutions to gain valuable work experience in Canada. It is an open work permit, meaning graduates can work for any employer in Canada.
The length of the PGWP depends on the duration of the graduate’s study program, with permits typically lasting between eight months and three years.
Gaining Canadian work experience through a PGWP can also help international graduates qualify for permanent residence under Canada’s Express Entry system.
Conclusion
The recent changes to PGWP eligibility emphasize the importance of aligning education with labour market demands and language proficiency. For international graduates, staying updated on these requirements is crucial for securing work opportunities and contributing to Canada’s growing economy.
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