The Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced significant changes to post-graduate work permit (PGWP) eligibility for international students who extend their study permits after switching programs. Students in this situation will lose their ‘grandfathered’ status, meaning they must meet the new program requirements outlined in changes implemented in November 2023.
Policy Overview
In a webinar held on November 29, the IRCC clarified that students who change their program of study after their initial letter of acceptance must comply with the updated PGWP criteria. These changes align with the new list of 966 eligible programs introduced on November 1, based on Canada’s labor market needs.
Previously, students with study permits issued before the policy change were grandfathered under the old rules, even if their programs were not directly linked to eligible Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) codes. However, any extension of the study permit now voids this protection unless students transition to an eligible program.
Impact on Students
This policy shift has sparked criticism from education stakeholders. Larissa Strong, director of international at College of the Rockies, estimates the changes could affect up to 23% of students in smaller colleges.
“Changing your program of study should not have negative, life-altering consequences,” Strong emphasized. “This decision prioritizes labor market outcomes over the educational journey of students.”
Immigration lawyer Will Tao echoed these concerns, describing the policy as “short-sighted” and a “two-tiered approach” that fails to recognize the legitimate reasons students might change programs, such as pursuing better opportunities or aligning studies with career goals.
Uncertainty and Concerns
The lack of detailed implementation guidelines has left students and consultants in limbo. According to immigration consultant Bree Carney, the policy’s real impact won’t be evident until students begin applying for PGWPs under the new rules in 2025.
“Students are being forced to make life-altering decisions with limited guidance, leading to confusion and anxiety,” Carney said.
Ministerial Perspective
At the CBIE conference in November 2024, Immigration Minister Marc Miller defended the changes, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the integrity of Canada’s immigration system.
“My foremost concern is preventing fraud and ensuring that our international visa programs achieve their intended goals,” Miller stated.
Additional Criteria
In addition to program eligibility, students must now meet new language requirements for PGWP applications submitted on or after November 1, except for flight school graduates. University students pursuing bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD degrees remain unaffected, but all other programs must meet the revised criteria.
A Balancing Act
While some stakeholders appreciate the alignment between PGWP opportunities and labor market needs, many warn that the policy risks alienating students in an already volatile sector. The need for clear communication and consideration of the student journey is more urgent than ever.
As the sector navigates these changes, the broader implications for international education and Canada’s attractiveness as a study destination remain to be seen.