Post-Graduate Work Permit Eligibility Announced by IRCC

A brief overview of the Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) program

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) recently made a significant announcement regarding the Post Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) program, which allows international graduates to gain valuable work experience in Canada following their studies. This initiative not only facilitates the transition from education to employment but also enhances the diverse workforce within the Canadian labor market.

A recent announcement by IRCC

The IRCC has published an updated list of eligible programs that will qualify graduates for the PGWP.

Some international graduates applying for a PGWP after November 1 must now meet additional field of study requirements.

- Details of the announcement

In 2023, IRCC introduced occupation-based Express Entry categories (which correspond with national labor market needs).

• Agriculture and agri-food;

• Healthcare;

• Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).

• Trade; and

• Transport.

The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligible programs in these fields are classified according to the Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP), the system Canada uses to categorize and describe educational programs; similar to Canada's National Occupation Classification (NOC).

Discuss the PGWP program and study options in Canada

- List of eligible programs

This carefully curated list includes a range of courses from various recognized post-secondary institutions across Canada, thereby broadening the opportunities available to international students seeking to work in the country after completing their studies.

CIP 2021 Title	CIP 2021 Code	Field of Study Category
Agricultural business and management, general	1.0101	Agriculture and agri-food
Plant nursery operations and management	1.0606	Agriculture and agri-food
Animal Health	1.0903	Agriculture and agri-food
Agronomy and crop science	1.1102	Agriculture and agri-food
Special education and teaching, general	13.1001	Healthcare
Exercise physiology	26.0908	Healthcare
Physical therapy assistant	51.0806	Healthcare
Cytotechnology/cytotechnologist	51.1002	Healthcare
Computer programming/programmer, general	11.0201	STEM
Chemical engineering	14.0701	STEM
Engineering Mechanics	14.1101	STEM
Computer graphics	11.0803	STEM
Electrician	46.0302	Trade
Machine tool technology/machinist	48.0501	Trade
Plumbing technology/plumber	46.0503	Trade
Heavy equipment maintenance technology/technician	47.0302	Transport
Air traffic controller	49.0105	Transport
Truck and bus driver/commercial vehicle operator and instructor	49.0205	Transport
Flight Instructor	49.0108	Transport
Transportation and materials moving, other	49.9999	Transport

Possible effects of the PGWP on Canadian labor markets

For international students, the PGWP is a critical gateway to integrating into the Canadian economy. It allows graduates to work for up to three years, depending on their program duration, giving them ample opportunity to gain work experience, potentially leading to permanent residency opportunities. This is particularly pertinent in a labor market that increasingly values the skills and perspectives brought by individuals educated in diverse environments.

Encouragement for prospective international students to explore eligible programs

In conclusion, the IRCC’s announcement reflects a commitment to supporting international students' professional journeys in Canada. Prospective students are encouraged to explore the newly announced eligible programs and consider the benefits of obtaining a Post Graduate Work Permit as part of their academic and career advancement in Canada.