Canada to Propose Changes to Post Graduation Work Permit Eligibility
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Canada is considering significant changes to the Post Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program, which allows international students to work in Canada after completing an eligible program at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
According to the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) Deputy Minister Transition Binder 2024, the country aims to align PGWP issuance with labor market needs by January 2025.
Key Highlights of the PGWP Eligibility Changes:
- Target Implementation: Changes proposed to take effect in January 2025.
- Goal: Align PGWP issuance with labor market demands.
- Focus: Facilitate work permits for graduates entering in-demand occupations; reduce permits for other fields.
- Method: Map job titles to educational programs using Canada’s National Occupation Classification (NOC) and Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) systems.
How has IRCC Planned to Implement these Changes?
While exact implementation strategies remain under discussion, an internal survey document from IRCC offers some insight. The IRCC and Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) have synchronized the NOC and CIP systems to link specific job titles with relevant educational programs.
For instance, the "carpenter" NOC is connected to programs like construction trades, carpentry, and woodworking/general.
Rationale Behind the Proposed Change
The primary goal of these changes is to better align labour market needs by facilitating work permits for students entering in-demand occupations and reducing permits for graduates from other programs. The PGWP program, last updated in 2008, saw a 214% increase in work permits issued between 2018 and 2023, indicating a significant rise in demand.
The broader context includes recent IRCC announcements on temporary residence levels, including a cap on international students introduced in January 2024. This move aims to prioritize permanent residents and citizens for jobs and alleviate stress on social systems like healthcare and housing.
Mapping the Immigration Implications
Gaining Canadian work experience through the PGWP is crucial for international graduates building eligibility for permanent residence (PR) programs. Many federal and provincial economic PR programs require at least a year of relevant work experience. The proposed PGWP changes could significantly impact international graduates' pathways to PR, even affecting those currently studying in Canada.
Also Read: Different Ways to Get PR in Canada After Study: From Student To Resident
The proposed changes to the PGWP program, set to be finalized by January 2025, are expected to reshape the landscape for international students and the Canadian labour market, potentially influencing immigration patterns and the overall economy.
Discover Your Options to Study in Canada
For those considering studying in Canada, staying updated on these changes is essential. Understanding how these adjustments might impact your work and immigration prospects, hence seeking guidance from consultants like GetGIS is crucial for making informed decisions about your education and future career in Canada.
