Canada Expands PGWP Eligibility: A Boost for Indian Students

Canada has recently removed the field-of-study requirement for Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligibility, making it easier for college graduates to stay and work in the country. This change aligns college policies with universities, simplifying the process for international students seeking employment after graduation.

Expanded Work Permit Access
This update benefits over 1.04 million international students—a 20% increase from the previous year. With approximately 70% of these students applying for work permits after graduation, the PGWP remains a vital pathway for retaining global talent.

Previously, in 2024, Canada had imposed restrictions requiring college graduates to be in specific fields to qualify for a PGWP. However, this restriction has now been lifted for those completing bachelor’s or master’s degrees, according to Larissa Bezo, CEO of the Canadian Bureau for International Education (CBIE).

New PGWP Eligibility Criteria
Graduates from any bachelor’s or master’s program can now apply for a PGWP, provided they meet the following language proficiency requirements:

• University graduates (bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral): CLB 7 or NCLC 7
• College program graduates: CLB 5 or NCLC 5

These requirements apply to PGWP applications submitted after November 1, 2024.

Impact on International Student Enrollment
While the new rules broaden opportunities, they also introduce additional restrictions. Students who applied for study permits after November 1, 2024, must meet new eligibility criteria. This has already led to a 60% drop in new international college enrollments in 2024, resulting in course cancellations and layoffs, particularly in Ontario.

Special Considerations and Exemptions

• Students who began their studies before November 1, 2024, are exempt from the old field-of-study restrictions.
• Flight school graduates retain PGWP eligibility without language or field restrictions.
• Programs under curriculum licensing agreements (post-May 15, 2024) are generally ineligible for PGWP.

Work Permit Duration
The length of a PGWP depends on the program completed:

• 8 months to 2 years: Work permit duration matches program length.
• 2 years or more: Eligible for a three-year work permit.
• Multiple eligible programs: May be combined under specific conditions.

What This Means for Indian Students
These reforms significantly enhance career opportunities for Indian students, who form a large portion of Canada’s international student population:

• More job flexibility: Graduates can now pursue careers in any field.
• Longer work permits: Master’s graduates are eligible for three-year work permits.
• Work while studying: Students can work 20 hours per week during academic terms and full-time during breaks.

By eliminating outdated restrictions, Canada is making it easier for skilled international graduates to integrate into its workforce—benefiting both students and the country.

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Dreaming of Studying or Working in Canada?
Sky Services is here to help you navigate the latest changes in Canada’s work permit and study policies. From PGWP applications to job placements, we provide end-to-end support to help you achieve your career goals in Canada. Contact us today to get started!