A distance learning initiative implemented by Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) during the COVID-19 pandemic is being extended until December 31, 2023. Post-graduation work Permits (PGWPs) will be available to students who have completed less than 50% of their eligible studies outside of Canada until the end of December 2023.
The time spent studying online outside of Canada was not counted toward PGWP eligibility before the pandemic, and all international students were required to complete no more than 50% of their studies online. For students who couldn’t travel during the pandemic, IRCC removed the online study restriction.
- Were enrolled in PGWP-eligible programs in progress in March 2020
- Began PGWP-eligible programs between March 2020 and August 31, 2022
Hence, individuals who commenced their international studies prior to August 31, 2022, can count the entirety of that period towards their eligibility for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). For students who initiated their studies between September 1, 2022, and December 31, 2023, only 50% of their time can be considered.
Irrespective of their study commencement date, as of September 1, 2023, all overseas students are no longer covered by the existing legislation and its current extension. Similarly, those who enrolled in programs after August 31, 2022, are also exempt from these regulations.
Apart from this, Canada’s Express Entry system is now tailored to provide a streamlined and efficient pathway for individuals with expertise in critical fields.
A review of labour market needs and extensive consultations with provincial and territorial partners, stakeholders, and the public helped determine the categories.
A complete list of eligible jobs for the new categories in 2023 is as below:
- French-language proficiency
- Healthcare occupations
- Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) occupations
- Trade occupations
- Transport occupations
- Agriculture and agri-food occupations