Starting November 1, 2024, Canada is introducing several important updates to the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Program. These changes are part of the government’s efforts to align international graduates’ skills with Canada’s long-term labor market needs.
Let’s explore these new requirements and how they may affect international students aiming to work in Canada after their studies.

Key Changes to the PGWP Eligibility
The new rules for the PGWP will require students to meet certain conditions depending on their field of study and language proficiency. This update primarily focuses on five sectors where labor shortages are prevalent:
- Healthcare
- Agriculture and Agri-Food
- Trade and Transport
- Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)
These fields have been selected based on Canada’s long-term shortage occupations, meaning students graduating in these areas will have a higher likelihood of obtaining a PGWP.
Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs)
To be eligible for a PGWP, the student must graduate from a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada. Not all DLIs offer programs that qualify for a PGWP, so it is important to confirm that the program you are enrolling in is eligible.
In addition, you must meet all requirements specific to your institution and program. This includes completing a full-time course that lasts at least eight months. Programs with a focus on the five critical fields mentioned above will be prioritized in the new system.
Language Requirements: Raising the Bar
A significant change that comes with the November 2024 update is the increased language proficiency requirements. All applicants will need to demonstrate competency in either English or French through the following recognized tests:
- Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP)
- International English Language Testing System (IELTS General Training)
- Pearson Test of English (PTE Core)
- Test d’évaluation de français (TEF Canada)
- Test de connaissance du français (TCF Canada)
For English speakers, the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) is the standard used, while for French speakers, the Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens (NCLC) applies. The minimum score requirements depend on the applicant’s level of education:
- University Graduates (Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctoral degrees): CLB 7 or NCLC 7 across all four skills (reading, writing, speaking, and listening).
- College Program Graduates: CLB 5 or NCLC 5 in all four skills.
This ensures that PGWP holders have the necessary language skills to integrate effectively into the Canadian workforce.
Language Test Validity
It is essential to note that language test results submitted must be no older than two years at the time of application. Applicants are advised to take these tests early, ensuring that they are up-to-date when they apply for their work permit.
Field of Study Requirements: Focusing on In-Demand Occupations
Under the new PGWP rules, international students must complete a program that aligns with specific fields experiencing labor shortages. The five major categories—healthcare, agriculture, trade and transport, and STEM—are at the core of Canada’s economic needs.
For instance, graduates of healthcare-related fields such as nursing, medical technology, or public health will have a higher chance of securing a work permit due to Canada’s ongoing healthcare worker shortage. Similarly, students from agricultural programs that focus on sustainable farming or food science will also be in high demand.
Graduates from these programs will find themselves in an advantageous position to transition from temporary residency to permanent residency through pathways like the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) or Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).
What Remains the Same: No Changes to General and Physical Location Requirements
Despite the updates, some aspects of the PGWP program will remain unchanged:
- General Requirements: Applicants must still meet the general requirements to apply for the PGWP, which include completing a study program at a DLI and applying for the permit within 180 days of receiving their final marks.
- Physical Location: The requirement for physical presence in Canada while completing studies remains the same. Online courses taken outside Canada do not qualify for the PGWP.
- Flight School Graduates: Students graduating from flight schools eligible for the PGWP are unaffected by these new rules. They will continue to qualify under the current guidelines, even if applying after November 1, 2024.
The Application Process: Key Dates and Deadlines
The introduction of these new rules brings some deadlines that students must be aware of:
- Before November 1, 2024: If you apply for a study permit before November 1, 2024, you will still need to meet the current PGWP eligibility rules. However, once November 1 arrives, you will be required to fulfill the new language and field of study requirements if applying for a work permit.
- After November 1, 2024: New applications will be subject to the updated criteria. It is critical to ensure you meet these requirements by choosing programs and institutions that align with the new rules.
Final Thoughts: Adapting to Canada’s PGWP Changes
The upcoming changes to the PGWP program emphasize Canada’s need to adapt its immigration policies to better serve its labor market needs. International students aiming to stay in Canada after graduation should plan ahead to meet the new language and educational requirements, particularly in fields where labor shortages are most severe.
By making these adjustments, Canada hopes to build a skilled workforce that aligns with its economic growth and innovation goals. Students must stay informed and adjust their study plans to ensure they are well-positioned to benefit from Canada’s post-graduation work opportunities.
Stay up-to-date on all the latest news regarding work permits, immigration processes, and visa sponsorship jobs by following relevant news sources and government announcements.