Effective immediately, international students enrolled in master’s programs lasting less than two years now qualify for a three-year post-graduation work permit (PGWP).
Previously, PGWP duration was tied to the length of the study program. However, recognizing the potential of master’s students in Canada’s job market, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has expanded eligibility for these students to receive extended work permits.
While PGWP durations for students in programs other than master’s level will still align with program lengths, up to a maximum of three years, students enrolled in PGWP-eligible designated learning institutions (DLIs) – the only institutions authorized to accept international students in Canada – for programs lasting at least two years are also entitled to the extended three-year PGWP.
In the coming weeks, IRCC will also adjust rules for spousal work permits for international students at the undergraduate level. This change will restrict spousal work permit eligibility to only spouses of master’s and doctoral level students, with no impact on spousal open work permits for spouses or conjugal partners of Canadian citizens or permanent residents.
What are the PGWP eligibility criteria?
To qualify for a PGWP, international students must:
- Have completed a program of study lasting at least eight months at an eligible DLI;
- Have pursued a degree, diploma, or certificate program;
- Maintained full-time student status throughout each academic session, as evidenced on the PGWP application (with certain exceptions);
- Obtained a transcript and official confirmation from the DLI of meeting program requirements, both of which must accompany the PGWP application;
- Graduated from a public post-secondary institution, including colleges, trade schools, universities, and others as listed, or from a private institution authorized to award degrees under provincial law, provided the student was enrolled in a qualifying degree program as authorized by the province.
If you have any questions or need further guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
Book an Appointment with Sahil for any Immigration related Queries
Note: Starting September 2024, students enrolled in programs using a curriculum licensing framework will no longer be eligible for PGWP applications.