Graduates of master’s degree granting programs are excellent candidates to succeed in Canadian labour market and potentially transition to permanent residence. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced new significant changes to the length of the PGWP, so that international students have the opportunity to meet the required Canadian work experience in order to apply for permanent residence.
Starting on February 15, 2024, graduates of master’s degree program will be eligible for 3-year post-graduation work permit that is less than 2 years and who meet all other PGWP eligibility criteria.
The length of PGWP for programs other than master’s degrees will continue to align with the length of the study program, to a maximum of 3 years.
Who is eligible for a longer post-graduation work permit (PGWP)?
• Graduates of programs that are at least two years in length at PGWP-eligible designated learning institutions are eligible for a 3-year PGWP, as are graduates of master’s degree programs less than 2 years in length.