Most Recent Changes in Post – Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
Rapid changes in technology and education are visible in society today. With these rapid transitions from conventional methods to newer and more modern ones, there comes a dire need to change our policies accordingly. Factors such as the need of practical learning methodologies, relevant work experience as well as beneficial internships drive the requirement of these changes. Recently, the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has introduced new and much – required changes in their policies that govern the transition that public as well as private college students face from education to work. It is, however, to be kept in mind that as of now, these changes have been implemented for a period of two years (2024 – 2026), that will allow the IRCC to closely analyze the impact and effectiveness of these changes. The changes are discussed briefly as follows –
Attestation Letters
From January 22, 2024, students submitting their study permit applications to the IRCC are also required to submit an additional attestation letter from a province, to enhance the verification process as well as boost the federal – provincial government ties and connections.
Restrictions on Spouses’ Work Permits
According to these new changes, open work permits will solely be available to spouses of international students enrolled in master’s and doctorate programs. These benefits, however, will not be available to spouses of international students enrolled in undergraduate programs and other levels of study.
PGWP Eligibility
Post graduate students will now have the option of applying for a three – year work permit, allowing them to gain the beneficial work experience in their respective fields, which will cater to their preparedness when they eventually work in their specialized fields of jobs. Also, students studying in public – private license agreement colleges will no longer be eligible to apply for PGWP.
Language Proficiency
According to the latest announcement, students who aim to attain a PGWP may be required to take demonstrative tests to show their proficiency in English or French, to ensure effective communication.
In conclusion, all these changes brought about by the IRCC are aimed at better integration of foreign students into the Canadian society and to do away with any kind of barriers that might hinder or interfere with this alignment. This will also lead to closer working of different levels of the government, leading to departmental harmony.
At NPZ Law Group, our U.S. and Canadian lawyers seek to assist clients with regard to employment and family immigration issues. If you or your friends or family should have any questions about any aspect of U.S. and Canadian Immigration Law, please feel free to contact us at info@visaserve.com or you can call our office at 201-670-0006 (ext. 104). We look forward to being able to assist you.
