Canada has introduced significant changes to its Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) rules, making it easier for international students who graduate from college degree programs to obtain work permits. This revision removes previous restrictions and ensures a more equitable system between college and university graduates.
Until now, Canadian colleges were required to ensure that graduates from certain degree programs met a specific field-of-study requirement to qualify for a PGWP. This restriction, introduced in 2024, applied only to colleges, not universities, and was part of a wider effort by the government to regulate the international education sector more closely. However, the federal government has now eliminated this requirement, broadening access to PGWPs for graduates from both colleges and universities, provided they meet the necessary language proficiency criteria.
A fairer system for college graduates
The removal of the field-of-study restriction marks a significant policy shift. Previously, only graduates from specific programs at colleges could qualify for a PGWP, while university graduates faced no such limitation. Now, all students who complete a bachelor’s or master’s degree in Canada—whether from a college or university—are eligible to apply for a PGWP.
Larissa Bezo, CEO of the Canadian Bureau for International Education (CBIE), praised the decision, stating:
“Graduates of college degree programs will no longer be required to meet the PGWP field-of-study requirement.”
This move is expected to benefit Canadian colleges, which have long attracted a high number of international students, particularly in business and applied sciences. Colleges focus on providing students with industry-specific skills, making them valuable contributors to Canada’s workforce. The updated policy allows colleges to better compete with universities in recruiting international students, especially in key global markets that were affected by earlier immigration restrictions.
Impact on international students and the economy
The PGWP remains one of Canada’s most popular immigration pathways for international students, providing them with work experience after graduation. By making the rules more inclusive, the government aims to support international students in securing employment and contributing to the Canadian economy.
Many industries in Canada rely on skilled workers who come through the international student pathway. By easing PGWP restrictions, the government is also addressing labour shortages in various sectors, particularly in business, healthcare, and technology. This change strengthens Canada’s reputation as a top destination for higher education and skilled immigration.
New PGWP eligibility criteria
With the updated policy, students from all bachelor’s and master’s programs can now apply for a PGWP, provided they meet specific language proficiency requirements:
- University graduates (bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral): CLB 7 or NCLC 7
- College program graduates: CLB 5 or NCLC 5
These new language criteria apply to PGWP applications submitted after 1 November 2024.
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Special exemptions and considerations
Certain students are exempt from the new eligibility rules, including:
- Students who began their studies before 1 November 2024 – They will not be subject to any field-of-study restrictions.
- Flight school graduates – These students will continue to qualify for a PGWP without language or field-of-study restrictions.
- Graduates of programs with curriculum licensing agreements (after 15 May 2024) – Typically, these programs do not qualify for a PGWP.
Work permit duration based on program length
The length of a PGWP depends on the duration of the completed program:
- 8 months to 2 years → Work permit valid for the same length as the study program.
- 2 years or more → Eligible for a three-year work permit.
- Multiple shorter programs → The total duration of study may allow for exceptions.
Conclusion
The removal of the field-of-study requirement is a welcome change that provides greater opportunities for international students graduating from Canadian colleges. By allowing more graduates to qualify for PGWPs, Canada strengthens its ability to attract and retain global talent while addressing key labour shortages.
With these revised policies, international students can now pursue their education and career aspirations in Canada with greater certainty, making the country an even more attractive destination for higher education and employment.
