Canada aspirants and those who want to work after graduation, will have to note the new rules implemented by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) with effect from November 1.

Changes have been made to the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) rules for students going to Canada for studies.

After studying at a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada, graduates can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit, allowing them to stay and work in Canada temporarily.

Language requirements

Under the new PGWP rules, “Most PGWP applicants are required to meet minimum levels of language ability to be eligible for a PGWP. To measure your English or French levels, we use Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) for English and Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadien (NCLC) for French,” according to the IRCC website.

The applicants will also have to test results to find their CLB level by submitting Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Programme (CELPIP), IELTS, or PTE Core for English.

For French, the Test d’évaluation de français (TEF Canada) and Test de connaissance du français (TCF Canada) will be accepted.

Field requirements

IRCC has decided certain field of study requirements linked to certain occupations in long-term shortage. The fields of study are divided into 5 broad categories:

·      agriculture and agri-food

·      healthcare

·      science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM)

·      trade

·      transport

How to apply for PGWP?

As per IRCC, one can apply for a PGWP from inside Canada or from another country, as long as they’re eligible, i.e. up to 180 days after graduating.

General eligibility for PGWP

To apply for a PGWP, one must have completed a study programme at a DLI.

Maintain full-time student status in Canada during each semester of study programme.

Study part-time during final semester

Approved leaves from studies

Apply for PGWP within 180 days after graduation