Canada has recently eased the way international students can remain and work post-graduation. From March 2025, the government of Canada dropped the field of study requirement from post-graduation work permits (PGWP).

This signifies that graduates of any Canadian master's or bachelor's degree course, either college or university, can apply for a PGWP provided they comply with the language requirements.

What's changing?

All students from any field of study are now eligible for a PGWP.

The students need to provide proof of English or French language skills, at a minimum Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) of 7 for university graduates and 5 for college graduates.

The changes apply to students who applied for a study permit after November 1, 2024, to pursue a college bachelor's or master's degree program.

Who's exempt?

Students who started studies before November 1, 2024: No limitations based on field of study apply.

Flight school graduates: Continue to be eligible for PGWP without condition.

Curriculum licensing agreement programs: Usually do not qualify for PGWP.

Work permit duration:

Programs 8 months to 2 years: Work permit valid for the same length as the program.

Programs 2 years or more: Student can seek a three-year work permit.

The changes have the goal of making Canada a more appealing country for international students, as well as confirming that students possess appropriate language skills in order to prosper in the Canadian job market.