IRCC Introduces New Rules And Eligibility Criteria for Post-Graduation Work Permit

IRCC has announced new eligibility requirements for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), effective November 1, 2024. International graduates will need to meet specific field of study and language criteria to qualify. Discover the updated guidelines and eligible fields for PGWPs in Canada.
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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:

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  • 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 TitleCIP 2021 CodeField of Study Category
Agricultural business and management, general01.0101Agriculture and agri-food
Animal/livestock husbandry and production01.0302Agriculture and agri-food
Plant nursery operations and management01.0606Agriculture and agri-food
Animal health01.0903Agriculture and agri-food
Agronomy and crop science01.1102Agriculture and agri-food
Special education and teaching, general13.1001Healthcare
Exercise physiology26.0908Healthcare
Physical therapy assistant51.0806Healthcare
Polysomnography51.0917Healthcare
Cytotechnology/cytotechnologist51.1002Healthcare
Computer programming/programmer, general11.0201STEM
Chemical engineering14.0701STEM
Engineering mechanics14.1101STEM
Water, wetlands and marine resources management03.0205STEM
Computer graphics11.0803STEM
Electrician46.0302Trade
Heating, air conditioning, ventilation and refrigeration maintenance technology/technician47.0201Trade
Machine tool technology/machinist48.0501Trade
Insulator46.0414Trade
Plumbing technology/plumber46.0503Trade
Heavy equipment maintenance technology/technician47.0302Transport
Air traffic controller49.0105Transport
Truck and bus driver/commercial vehicle operator and instructor49.0205Transport
Engineering Mechanics49.0108Transport
Transportation and materials moving, other49.9999Transport

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

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How to Find Your CIP Code

To determine your CIP code, follow these steps:

  1. Visit Statistics Canada’s CIP 2021 webpage.
  2. Search for your program title using keywords or browse through the study categories.
  3. Once you find the relevant sub-category, click through to view more specific program options.
  4. 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

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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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Editorial Team
Editorial Team

Editorial Team: A dynamic group of experienced authors dedicated to delivering the latest in travel news and insights. Explore the world through their collective expertise.

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