Starting November 1, 2024, new language proficiency standards will be required for those applying for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).
These changes are designed to enhance the ability of international graduates to integrate into the Canadian workforce by ensuring they have the language skills necessary to thrive in the country’s job market.
Many of these updates were first mentioned in June 2024, when it was reported that IRCC was planning eight significant changes to the PGWP program.
1) New Criteria for Language Proficiency
One of the most notable updates to the PGWP program is the addition of language proficiency requirements.
The Canadian government has introduced these requirements to ensure that graduates possess the language skills necessary for success in the workforce and for a smoother transition to permanent residency.
For university graduates, a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level of 7 will be required, while college graduates will need to achieve a CLB level of 5.
The goal of these language requirements is to improve graduates’ communication abilities, helping them better integrate into both the Canadian workplace and society.
This change will also facilitate easier qualification for immigration pathways, such as the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), which often includes language proficiency as a key selection factor.
2) Focusing on Sustained Labour Market Needs
In addition to the new language requirements, the updated PGWP rules also emphasize aligning the program with Canada’s labour market needs, as reported earlier in June when IRCC announced it was working on eight major changes to the PGWP.
International students graduating from programs related to fields experiencing long-term labour shortages will now be eligible for a PGWP lasting up to three years.
This strategic adjustment aims to ensure Canada’s immigration system more effectively addresses the country’s workforce needs. By giving priority to graduates from sectors facing ongoing labour shortages, the government hopes to tackle the country’s evolving economic challenges.
Key sectors in demand include healthcare, technology, engineering, and skilled trades—areas experiencing growth due to Canada’s aging population and expanding industries.
While IRCC has not yet released a specific list of occupations in long-term shortage for PGWP eligibility, they are focusing on the following sectors for Express Entry targeted draws, which also highlight labour shortages:
- 35 healthcare occupations
- 25 STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) occupations
- 10 trade occupations
- 10 transportation occupations
- 3 agriculture and agri-food occupations
3) Building on Previous Changes
The latest updates to the PGWP program will replace the changes made earlier in 2024.
Before, regulations introduced on February 15, 2024, allowed master’s program graduates to qualify for a three-year PGWP, regardless of the program’s duration.
This policy aimed to help master’s graduates transition smoothly into the Canadian workforce by giving them more time to gain valuable work experience and improve their chances of obtaining permanent residency.
However, with the new updates coming in November 2024, these students will need to meet specific language proficiency and field of study requirements to qualify for a PGWP.
The government aims to streamline the program further, ensuring that international graduates have both the necessary educational qualifications and language skills to succeed in Canada’s economy.
4) Long-Term Effects for International Students
The upcoming changes will make the PGWP program more selective, targeting graduates with specific skills and language proficiency that match Canada’s immigration and labour market needs.
International students will need to enhance their academic and language preparation before applying for a work permit.
Graduates who meet the updated criteria will gain valuable work experience in Canada and will have better chances of transitioning to permanent residency through the available immigration pathways for skilled workers.
How CLB Levels Affect PGWP Applicants
For international students aiming to apply for a PGWP, understanding the CLB requirements is crucial and attainable.
University graduates need to achieve a higher CLB level 7, demonstrating a strong command of English, which is vital for successful integration into Canada’s workforce.
In contrast, college graduates need to meet a lower CLB level 5, indicating a basic level of proficiency that remains suitable for certain sectors.
These new language requirements show that Canada is prioritizing skilled graduates who can more effectively contribute to the economy.
Students should now place a greater emphasis on language training alongside their academic studies.
