New programs to PGWP-eligible fields of study
New programs to PGWP-eligible fields of study
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has recently expanded the fields of study eligible for Post Graduation Work Permits (PGWPs).
As of December 17, 2024, the PGWP-eligible fields of study include certain programs related to early childhood education and developmental service workers.
Prior to this change, IRCC listed fields of study requirements on October 4, 2024. They were divided into five broad categories, which mirrored the occupation-based Express Entry categories:
- Agriculture and agri-food;
- Healthcare;
- Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM);
- Trade; and
- Transport.
With this update, a sixth category has been added to the list: Education.
PGWP eligible programs are grouped and listed using the Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP), Canada’s system for categorizing instructional or educational programs.
What is the field of study requirement?
In September 2024, IRCC announced that international students need to graduate from a field of study linked to occupations in long-term shortage to be eligible for PGWPs.
These field of study requirements do not apply to university bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral graduates. They apply to international students graduating from college programs and from university vocational programs.
Students who applied for study permits before November 1, 2024, do not need to meet the field of study requirements.
But if they apply for a new study permit after this date (for example, due to changing schools and/or programs), the field of study requirement will apply.
This is one of many measures introduced by IRCC over 2024 that impacts international students looking to work in Canada after graduating.
The department also implemented a language requirement for PGWP eligibility, which varies depending on the level of study of international graduates.
What is a PGWP?
A PGWP is an open work permit that allows foreign nationals who have completed an eligible program of study at a designated learning institution (DLI) to work for most employers for most industries in Canada.
The duration of a PGWP depends on the length of the completed study program, and varies from eight months to three years.
By providing international student graduates with the opportunity to gain work experience, it can serve as a stepping stone toward permanent residency, as Canadian work experience can help them become eligible for the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), and can increase their score in the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS).