A new 'Post-Graduation Work Permit' (PGWP) rule has now come into effect for students going to study in Canada. The new rules have come into effect from November 1, under which the (PGWP) program will see some changes. After studying in Canada, foreign students get a work permit to work, which is seen under (PGWP). The changes made under Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) have changed the conditions regarding PGWP.
The emphasis will now be on the highest language before announcing the PGWP. Also, it will be seen which subject the students have studied. This change has been made so that Canada's post-study work visa system is in line with the needs of the labor market there. However, the slightly older eligibility criteria for availing PGWP has not been changed. Let's understand in detail what changes have been made regarding PGWP and what will remain the same.
What changes have taken place regarding the language?
At the time of applying for PGWP the applicant has to prove his/her strong grasp of the language. The Government of Canada wants foreign students to have the communication skills necessary for employment. The certificate to prove language proficiency should not be more than two years old. Proficiency in the English language can be proven through CELPIP, IELTS or PTE scores. IRCC TEF Canada, TCF Canada and NCLC scores are required for French.
What are the conditions attached to the course?
Earlier PGWP was available on studying most of the courses. But now in view of the shortage of workers, it will be easier for students studying in a few specialized fields to get PGWP. It will be easy for students studying fields like Agriculture and Agri-Foods, Healthcare Sciences, Technology, Engineering, Maths, Trade and Transport to get PGWP. The Government of Canada did this so as to overcome the ongoing loss of workers in this sector.
What has changed in the application process and processing conditions?
The application submission process from IRCC has also been changed. Under the new rule, the PGWP application will have to be submitted online. Now the application form will not have to be submitted at the port of entry. Medical examination will be mandatory for working in that field. They will get an option to opt for an upfront medical exam before 90 days of applying for PGWP.
What are the guidelines regarding student status?
If a student's study permit is completed under PGWP, students will have to apply separately for a work permit. And for that too an English Language Proficiency Certificate of up to two years has to be presented. If the student visa expires before the work permit, the student will have 90 days to apply. However, for this both PGWP application and fee have to be submitted.
What has not changed regarding PGWP?
Although many things have changed regarding PGWP, few important terms have remained unchanged. General eligibility and physical location criteria still apply. A student has to study in a designated learning institution to obtain PGWP. This rule applies to all students. In that case, if you are also studying in Canada, you should also know about these rules.
Image Credit: (Divya-Bhaskar): Images/graphics belong to (Divya-Bhaskar).
