New PGWP-Eligible Fields Under Education
Canada Expands PGWP-Eligible Fields of Study
Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has recently announced significant updates to the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program. As of December 17, 2024, certain programs in early childhood education and developmental services will now be eligible for PGWPs. This marks an exciting development for international students seeking work opportunities in Canada after graduation.
Image 1: A young female student celebrating graduation from a Canadian university.
What’s New?
Previously, PGWP eligibility was tied to five broad categories of study:
Agriculture and Agri-Food
Healthcare
Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)
Trades
Transport
With the latest update, a sixth category, Education, has been added to the list. Programs within this category are now classified under Canada’s Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) system. Below is a list of the newly eligible programs, along with their corresponding CIP codes:
Table 1: PGWP-eligible fields of study in Early Childhoon Education and Developmental Service Workers.
Who Does This Affect?
The changes primarily impact international students enrolled in college and vocational university programs. However, there are a few key details to note:
Exemptions for Past Applications: Students who applied for a study permit before November 1, 2024, are not required to meet the updated field of study requirements.
Future Applications: Students applying for a new study permit after this date (e.g., due to changing schools or programs) must meet the updated requirements to qualify for a PGWP.
Exempt Programs: The field of study requirement does not apply to bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral programs.
Image 2: A student who is deeply engaged in a lecture setting in Canada.
Why It Matters
The PGWP is a highly sought-after open work permit that allows international graduates to gain work experience in Canada, paving the way for permanent residency. Work experience acquired under a PGWP can:
Help graduates qualify for the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) under Express Entry.
Boost their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, improving their chances of obtaining permanent residency.
Image 3: A fresh graduate entering the Canadian workplace interacting with a colleague.
Additional Updates in 2024
This is just one of several changes introduced by IRCC over the past year to enhance opportunities for international students. Other updates include a new language requirement for PGWP eligibility, which varies depending on the level of study.
What is a PGWP?
A PGWP is an open work permit issued to international students who have completed an eligible program of study at a designated learning institution (DLI). The permit’s duration depends on the length of the study program, ranging from eight months to three years. It provides international graduates with the opportunity to work for most employers in most industries across Canada, helping them gain valuable Canadian work experience.
Looking Ahead
This expansion of PGWP-eligible fields is a promising step for international students aspiring to build their careers in Canada. By including programs in early childhood education and developmental services, Canada continues to address labor shortages in critical sectors while supporting the aspirations of its international student community.
For more details on PGWP eligibility and other immigration updates, stay tuned or consult with an immigration professional.
Need Assistance? Schedule a free consultation with the Caerus Immigration Consulting Ltd. to explore your options for work permits and permanent residency in Canada.