Canada has stated that changes have been made to the duration of PGWP post-graduation work permits, given that graduates who have been awarded a master's degree are excellent candidates for successful employment in the Canadian labour market and have the potential to transition to permanent residence, so that they have the opportunity to meet the Canadian work experience required to apply for permanent residence.
From 15 February 2024, those who graduate from a master's degree program of less than 2 years and meet all other PGWP eligibility criteria will be granted a post-study work visa for up to 3 years.
The length of the post-graduation work visa for courses other than a master's degree will continue to be consistent with the length of the course of study for a maximum of 3 years.
To put it simply, under the New Deal,The following qualifications can lead to a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) for up to 3 years
Graduates who have completed at least 2 years of study at a designated learning institution eligible for PGWP, as well as graduates of master's degree programs of less than 2 years in length, are eligible for a 3-year post-graduation work permit (PGWP).
Graduates of PPP programs will not be eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).
Some provinces allow public universities to license their programs to be offered by partner private institutions. In these cases, students actually attend a private institution but graduate with a diploma from a public university. Concerns have been raised about the quality of education provided by these institutions and the lack of adequate student support. The Ontario Comptroller also expressed concern about the lack of oversight of the quality of programs and student services at these institutions.
As a result, the IRCC has made changes that restrict graduates from these institutions from applying for PGWP post-graduation work permits.
International students who are currently enrolled will still be eligible for a PGWP post-graduation work permit if they meet the eligibility criteria for other programs. However, new students enrolled in such courses will not be eligible for a PGWP post-graduation work permit.