Securing a Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) is a vital first step for overseas students hoping to start a future in Canada. This open work permit lets graduates obtain practical Canadian work experience, which helps qualify them for programs like the Canadian Experience Class. However, students who want to be qualified for a PGWP have to carefully select their program of study and university.
Choosing a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
PGWP eligibility first requires enrollment in a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). Schools, Colleges and Universities licensed by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to host foreign students are known as DLIs. Applying to a non-DLI will result in a study permit application being turned down. Students may check the official DLI list on the Government of Canada website to confirm whether a school is a DLI. This list shows institutions by province or territory, their DLI numbers and whether they have PGWP-eligible programs.
Guaranteeing Program eligibility
Not every DLI program meets PGWP eligibility criteria. IRCC has instituted field-of-study requirements for some levels of study as of November 1, 2024. Students enrolled in college-level courses abroad must ensure their field of study fits jobs in areas of long-term scarcity in Canada. These cover industries include trades, transportation, education, agriculture, healthcare, STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics), and also, these field-of-study requirements do not apply to university bachelor's, master's, and doctorate programs.
To be eligible for a PGWP, all recent graduates also have to satisfy particular language competency requirements in English or French. Before applying, students should verify the PGWP eligibility of their program as well as the DLI status of their university.
Steer clear of Common Pitfalls.
Students should be wary of colleges operating under curriculum licensing systems. These are private colleges offering courses through agreements with public universities. Graduates from these programs are not qualified for PGWPs per IRCC's 2024 policy changes, meant to guarantee the sustainability of Canada's immigration system. Therefore, before enrolment, it is absolutely necessary to confirm the type of institution and program.
In conclusion
Travelling the road to a PGWP calls for informed decision-making and careful preparation. International students can improve their chances of obtaining meaningful work experience and pursuing permanent residency by choosing a recognized DLI and enrolling in a PGWP-eligible program that fits Canada's labour market needs. A successful move from student to skilled worker in Canada depends on keeping IRCC policies and requirements current. Contact us at Croyez Immigration to know more about how you can get yourself an admission to a DLI with our expert guidance.