IRCC Reveals New PGWP-Eligible Programs – Check If You Qualify!
IRCC expands PGWP-eligible programs to include education fields like early childhood and developmental services. Learn about new updates and requirements here.
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has recently expanded the fields of study eligible for Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWPs), providing new opportunities for international students in Canada. These updates reflect IRCC's commitment to addressing workforce needs while supporting international students' career growth.
Key Changes Effective December 17, 2024
IRCC has added new programs under the education category to the PGWP-eligible fields of study. Previously, the PGWP requirements, updated on October 4, 2024, included five broad categories aligned with occupation-based Express Entry classifications:
- Agriculture and Agri-food
- Healthcare
- Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)
- Trade
- Transport
With the latest update, a sixth category, Education, has been introduced. This addition aims to address shortages in roles such as early childhood educators and developmental service workers.
Newly Added PGWP-Eligible Programs
IRCC uses the Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) to identify eligible educational programs. Below are the newly eligible programs under the Education field, along with their corresponding CIP codes:
| Program Title | CIP Code |
|---|---|
| Developmental Services Worker | 19.0710 |
| Montessori Teacher Education | 13.1207 |
| Waldorf/Steiner Teacher Education | 13.1208 |
| Early Childhood Education and Teaching | 13.1210 |
| Teaching Assistants/Aide, General | 13.1501 |
| Child Development | 19.0706 |
| Child Care and Support Services Management | 19.0708 |
| Child Care Provider/Assistant | 19.0709 |
| Early Childhood and Family Studies | 19.0711 |
Field of Study Requirements
International students must graduate from a program linked to occupations in long-term shortage to qualify for PGWPs. These requirements do not apply to university bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral programs but focus on college and vocational programs.
- Exemptions: Students with study permits issued before November 1, 2024, are exempt from these requirements.
- New Applications: Students applying for study permits after this date must adhere to the updated field of study requirements.
These measures complement IRCC's broader strategy to align education pathways with Canada's labor market demands.
Additional Requirements for PGWPs
IRCC has also introduced language proficiency requirements for PGWP eligibility, tailored to the level of study completed.
What is a PGWP?
A Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is an open work permit enabling international graduates of eligible programs from designated learning institutions (DLIs) to work in Canada for most employers and industries.
- Duration: PGWPs are valid for 8 months to 3 years, depending on the length of the completed program.
- Pathway to Residency: PGWPs provide valuable Canadian work experience, enhancing eligibility for the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) and improving Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores for permanent residency applications.
Stay Informed
IRCC continues to implement policies that impact international students. For a complete overview of 2024 updates, consult official resources to ensure compliance and maximize opportunities.
This structured and engaging format ensures clarity while highlighting the significant updates to PGWP-eligible fields of study.
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