On September 18, 2024, IRCC announced that Canada is implementing significant changes to its Post Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) and Study Permit. These PGWP changes impact international students and their post-study work options, as well as their eligibility to bring their families to Canada. Here’s what you need to know.
New Language Requirements for PGWP Applications
Starting from November 1, 2024, all applicants for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) must submit proof of language proficiency in English or French. The required Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) scores are:
- CLB 7 for university graduates
- CLB 5 for college graduates
This requirement marks a new direction in the PGWP process, ensuring that international students have the language skills needed for employment in Canada.
PGWP Changes Its Duration Based on Degree Level
The duration of your PGWP changes will also depend on the level of education you’ve completed. Here’s how it breaks down:
- Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral Graduates: Eligible for a maximum 3-year PGWP.
- Public College Graduates: Still eligible for a 3-year PGWP, but only if they have graduated from a program identified as addressing long-term labor shortages in Canada
Important Update: Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) Now Required for Master’s and PhD Students in Canada
Starting in the 2025-2026 academic year, there’s a significant change to the study permit application process for international students pursuing graduate studies in Canada. All international students applying for a study permit to pursue a Master’s or Doctoral (PhD) program will now be required to submit a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) along with their application. Previously, this requirement applied only to college and undergraduate university students.
This expansion of the PAL requirement to graduate-level programs is part of a broader effort to ensure the integrity of study permit applications and to manage the volume of study permits issued. The allocation of study permits will now include a reserved portion (approximately 12%) specifically for Master’s and PhD students.
What This Means for You:
- If you are planning to apply for a study permit to begin a Master’s or PhD program in Canada in the 2025-2026 academic year or later, you must obtain a PAL. Contact your chosen Designated Learning Institution (DLI) for specific instructions on how to obtain the letter.
- This change underscores the importance of starting your application process early. Securing a PAL may add time to your overall application timeline.
Stay Informed: Always check the official IRCC website for the most up-to-date information and requirements regarding study permits and the PAL process.
Limits on Spousal Open Work Permits (SOWP)
Changes are also coming to the Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP). Starting later this year, SOWPs will only be issued to spouses of:
- Master’s students whose programs are at least 16 months long.
- Foreign workers employed in managerial or professional occupations, or in sectors facing labor shortages.
This change is part of Canada’s effort to better align work permit issuance with the labor market needs and reduce the volume of temporary residents in Canada.
These PGWP changes will have a profound impact on international students considering Canada as a study destination. Particularly, those pursuing post-graduate education or applying for the Post-Graduation Work Permit will see the most effect. Hence, understanding these new requirements and planning accordingly will be crucial for those looking to study, work, and settle in Canada.
Stay informed to navigate the upcoming changes to the PGWP and study permit programs!
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Related Posts:
- Study Permits in Canada: How to Apply Step-by-Step
- Study in Canada with family: Who can come with you and what to do
- Study in Canada: Who needs an attestation letter?
