New Work Permit Options for International Graduates in Canada

November 28, 2024

Ishita Soni

Work Permit Options for Graduates Without PGWP Eligibility

For recent graduates who may no longer be eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) or those with expiring PGWPs, there are several alternative work permit options available in Canada. Below are some of the key pathways you can explore to maintain legal work status in Canada.

Alternate Work Permits for Graduates Without PGWP

If your PGWP has expired or you’re no longer eligible for it, there are other ways to continue working in Canada. Some alternatives include:

• Free-Trade Agreement Work Permits: Available for nationals from countries with a trade agreement with Canada.
• International Experience Canada (IEC): For young people from countries with bilateral agreements with Canada.
• Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP): Employer-specific work permits that require a Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
• Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP): For those with a job offer from an employer in Canada’s Atlantic provinces.
• Provincial Nominee Program (PNP): For individuals nominated by Canadian provinces.
• Spousal Open Work Permits: For spouses of students or those applying for family sponsorship.

Spousal Open Work Permits: New Criteria and Eligibility

There are two types of spousal open work permits:

• Post-secondary Studies: If your spouse is enrolled in a qualifying Canadian post-secondary program (such as a master’s or PhD), you may be eligible for a spousal work permit.
• Family Sponsorship: If your spouse is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident and has sponsored you for permanent residence, you can apply for an open work permit while awaiting the decision on your application.

Key Updates to PGWP Eligibility for International Graduates

The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is an important pathway for international students to stay and work in Canada after their studies. However, starting November 1, 2024, there will be notable changes:

• Field of Study Restrictions: College and vocational program graduates will only qualify for a PGWP if their field of study aligns with Canada’s labor market needs. University bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD graduates will not face these restrictions.
• Language Requirements: New language benchmarks have been introduced. University graduates must now have a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) score of 7, while college graduates will need a CLB score of 5 to be eligible for a PGWP.

Working After Studies (Before PGWP Expiry)

If you’ve completed your studies and applied for a work permit before your study permit expires, you can start working immediately while waiting for the decision. You must have valid status in Canada during the application process.

Conclusion

While recent changes may leave some international graduates ineligible for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), there are still various work permit options available. These include free trade agreement-based permits, International Experience Canada (IEC), Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP), and programs like the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) and Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). Additionally, spousal work permits can offer opportunities for those in specific situations. It’s important for graduates to explore these alternative pathways to maintain legal work status in Canada.

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