In a recent announcement on October 27th, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) unveiled forthcoming changes to enhance its International Student Program and safeguard against fraud. The changes prompted the necessary review of the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program.
The upcoming adjustments will compel Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) to directly verify each applicant’s letter of acceptance with IRCC. The update aims to ensure that study permits are granted solely based on authentic letters of acceptance.
By the fall semester of 2024, IRCC plans to implement a “recognized institution” framework, offering DLIs various benefits, including expedited processing of study permit applications.
IRCC disclosed plans for a comprehensive evaluation of the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) criteria in the coming months. The assessment will pave the way for reforms tailored to align with the country’s labor market needs, regional considerations, and Francophone immigration goals, marking the first review of the program in a decade.
Post-graduation Work Permit Prerequisite
Canada is known for its high-quality education system, and many international students choose to study in Canadian institutions for the quality of education and the diverse cultural experiences.
The study permit facilitates access to this education by allowing students to enroll in approved programs. It is an official document issued by the Government of Canada that allows foreign nationals to study at designated learning institutions (DLIs) in Canada.
The study permit processing is a crucial aspect of the Canadian immigration system, particularly for international students seeking to pursue education in the country.
Canada is inviting more international students and strengthening their programs to ensure the success of Study Permit Applicants while maintaining the quality of these newcomers. This ensures that the workforce in Canada contributes to improving the economy of the country.
With a valid study permit, international students are generally eligible to work part-time during their studies and full-time during scheduled breaks. This provides students with opportunities to gain valuable work experience, earn income, and offset some of their living expenses.
With that said, the study permit is a prerequisite for eligibility for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). The PGWP allows international graduates to work in Canada for a specified period after completing their studies.
This work experience can be valuable for those seeking to gain Canadian work experience and potentially apply for permanent residency.
What is the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)?
The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is a program in Canada that allows international students who have completed a program of study at a designated learning institution in Canada to work in the country for a specified period after graduation. The PGWP is an open work permit, which means that graduates can work for any employer in Canada and are not restricted to a specific job.
The PGWP is a vital avenue for international students completing eligible Canadian post-secondary programs, granting them the opportunity to work for any employer of their choice in Canada. Its validity extends up to three years, depending on the duration of the educational program.
One of the key advantages of the PGWP is its provision for international students to gain valuable professional work experience in Canada, a crucial asset for those aspiring to pursue Canadian immigration.
It is also important to note that various immigration pathways in Canada often favor applicants with a Canadian educational and work background. PGWP holders are to accumulate at least a year of work experience in specific occupational classifications to gain an advantage.
To qualify for a PGWP, international students must meet certain criteria, including completing studies at an eligible Designated Learning Institution (DLI) and maintaining full-time student status throughout the academic program.
Graduation from a recognized post-secondary institution and obtaining the necessary documentation from the DLI are also prerequisites.
PGWP holders are allowed to work full-time, part-time, or be self-employed. There are no restrictions on the type of employment, and the work experience gained during this period can be valuable for those who may later apply for permanent residency in Canada.
PGWP Impacts International Students’ Future in Canada
A 2022 Statistics Canada study highlighted a consistent increase in the number of PGWP holders in Canada. Over the years, the percentage of graduates holding a PGWP has risen, with a notable surge from 30% in the 2008 cohort to approximately 50% in 2013.
The data indicated a substantial growth in the total number of PGWP holders, surging from more than 10,000 in 2008 to over 64,000 in 2018. The attractiveness of the PGWP is attributed to its enabling international students to sustain themselves in Canada. Median earnings for PGWP holders have also seen a significant uptick from 2008 to 2018.
China and India emerged as prominent source countries, constituting 51% of PGWP holders in 2008 and expanding to 66% by 2018. At the close of 2022, over 286,000 international graduates were in Canada with a valid PGWP.
Additionally, tens of thousands of PGWP holders successfully transition to permanent residence each year, reaching a record high of over 157,000 in 2021.
In 2022, this transition remained substantial, with nearly 95,000 PGWP holders securing permanent residence, marking the second-highest total ever recorded.
These trends highlight the significance of PGWP as a pathway for international students to contribute to and integrate into Canada’s workforce and society.
How Can Enhance Visa Assist International Students with Their PGWP Applications?
Enhance Visa plays a crucial role in assisting international students with their Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) applications through various services and support.
For nearly thirty years, Enhance Visa has stood as a pillar in the immigration sector, embodying excellence and staying abreast of the latest industry trends. The company consistently adapts to shifts in the global immigration landscape, solidifying its reputation as a dependable partner for individuals navigating the intricacies of immigration processes.
Since its establishment in 1995, Enhance Visa has been a witness to and an active participant in the ever-changing dynamics of Canadian immigration policies. Playing a pivotal role, the company has assisted clients in comprehending and navigating the complex pathways to residency and citizenship in Canada.
This extensive experience highlights Enhance Visa’s expertise in the field, positioning it as well-prepared to guide individuals through the continuously evolving immigration policy landscape.
We provide expert guidance on PGWP eligibility criteria, ensuring that international students understand the requirements and prepare necessary documents accurately.
Our experts can keep clients informed about any changes in immigration policies, including updates on PGWP criteria or processing procedures, ensuring that students are aware of the latest developments.
Enhance Visa offers guidance on integrating into the Canadian job market through the company’s Professional Licensing Program (PLP). We provide information on industries, job search strategies, and networking opportunities to enhance the chances of PGWP holders finding employment.
Additionally, the company’s Professional Licensing Program (PLP) aligns with Canada’s shifting priorities and opportunities outlined in the plan.
Recognizing the significance of professional growth and understanding the challenges newcomers face, Enhance Visa’s PLP complements the Canadian government’s endeavors to streamline immigration processes and address workforce gaps in specific sectors.
Enhance Visa’s commitment to staying informed about the latest trends in the immigration landscape positions it as a valuable resource for individuals aspiring to establish themselves in Canada.
The company’s capacity to innovate and adapt over the years provides an added layer of assurance for those navigating the intricate pathways of Canadian immigration.
Combining Enhance Visa’s longevity, commitment to excellence, and adaptability makes it a strategic ally for individuals aspiring to build successful careers in Canada.
By offering a comprehensive guide that covers the entire PGWP application process and beyond, Enhance Visa can effectively support international students in realizing their goals of working in Canada after completing their studies.
You can trust that Enhance Visa will give it its all to assist its clients in finding success in Canada.
If you are interested in learning more about the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), you can always schedule an online appointment with us. Fill out our easy online application form or contact us at +63 917 555 9027.
