Post-Graduation Work Permit Reform in 2024: What Was Proposed and What Ultimately Changed

Published: May 20, 2024

In spring 2024, the federal government was considering substantial changes to the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program. At that stage, many details remained proposals rather than final rules. The policy that later took effect was more targeted than some early predictions.

What was under discussion in May 2024

The central policy question was whether PGWP eligibility should be more closely connected to labour-market needs. Public discussion focused particularly on graduates of college and other non-degree programs, where a field-of-study requirement could be used to favour programs linked to occupations in shortage.

At the time, it was reasonable to distinguish between degree programs and non-degree programs, but it was not yet possible to state the final thresholds, eligible fields or transition rules with certainty. Students making decisions during a policy consultation should therefore separate confirmed law from forecasts.

What ultimately changed

For PGWP applications submitted on or after November 1, 2024, most applicants must provide approved English or French language results. Graduates of bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degree programs generally require CLB/NCLC 7 in all four abilities. Graduates of other college, polytechnic or non-university programs generally require CLB/NCLC 5.

A field-of-study requirement may also apply to graduates of certain non-degree programs when the underlying study permit application was submitted on or after November 1, 2024. Bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral graduates are not subject to that field-of-study requirement. The eligible field list has since been revised, which is another reason to verify the current list rather than rely on an older summary.

Practical lessons

• Check the date of the study permit application as well as the date of the PGWP application.
• Confirm that the institution and the specific program are PGWP-eligible; DLI status alone is not enough.
• Plan language testing early because results must be valid and meet the threshold in every ability.
• For a non-degree program, verify the current CIP code and field-of-study rules before committing significant tuition.

Historical policy commentary can explain how a reform developed, but eligibility must be assessed under the rules in force when the relevant application is submitted.

Official sources: IRCC — PGWP eligibility; IRCC — field-of-study requirement.