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The Canadian government is considering modifications to the Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) program to better align with the needs of the job market. Under the proposed changes, only graduates in certain high-demand fields may be eligible for the PGWP.

Why the Changes?

1.Emphasis on the Job Market
The primary objective is to ensure that graduates possess the skills required for high-demand jobs in Canada.
2.Enhanced Utilization of the Program
Between 2018 and 2023, there was a 214% increase in the number of individuals utilizing the PGWP program. Enhancing the program’s focus will facilitate the management of this growth.
3.Potential Program Modifications
The government is in discussions with provinces regarding various approaches to modify the PGWP program.

Eligibility Based on Employment Opportunities

1.Current Rule: Currently, all graduates from Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) are eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), regardless of their field of study.
2.Proposed Change: Under the proposed revision, only graduates in fields facing job shortages would qualify for the PGWP. This implies that the permit may only be accessible to graduates in high-demand sectors such as technology, healthcare, and engineering.
3.Impact: This change would necessitate students to select their study programs more discerningly to ensure they meet the criteria for the PGWP.

Job Offer Requirement

1.Current Rule: International graduates are eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) without requiring a job offer. They can remain in Canada for up to three years to work in a position related to their studies.
2.Proposed Change: Graduates may need a job offer in a field facing labor shortages to extend their PGWP beyond the first year. This implies that after the initial year, students must secure employment in a high-demand field to maintain their work permit.
3.Impact: Graduates will be required to secure employment in high-demand sectors more promptly upon completing their studies.

Supporting Languages Across Provinces

1.Current Rule: Obtaining or extending a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) currently does not require language skills or provincial support.
2.Proposed Change: To extend a PGWP, graduates may be required to demonstrate proficiency in either English or French. Additionally, they may need endorsement or support from a province.
3.Impact: The implementation of these new rules may increase the difficulty of extending the PGWP, yet they would guarantee that only individuals thoroughly prepared to work in Canada are able to remain.

Implementation Timeline

1.Current Rule: Any graduate from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) under the current rules.
2.Proposed Change: The proposed changes may be implemented differently:

• They could apply only to new students enrolling after the changes are enacted.
• Alternatively, they could apply to all graduates, including those who have already completed their studies.

3.Impact: If the changes are applied only to new students, current students and recent graduates will not be immediately affected. This provides them with a transition period to adapt to the new rules.

Effect on Future Students

These changes may significantly impact students opting for programs in low-demand fields. To increase their chances of obtaining a visa and PGWP under the new regulations, experts recommend:

1. Emphasize Skill-Oriented Programs
Opt for programs aligned with Canada’s high-demand job sectors, such as sciences, IT, healthcare, engineering, and business specialties.
2. Investigate Job Market Dynamics
Keep abreast of emerging industries and sought-after skills in the job market.