In a recent announcement by the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) on January 22, 2024, significant alterations to the eligibility criteria for post-graduation work permits have been confirmed. These changes impact international graduates of college programs delivered through a public-private curriculum licensing arrangement.
Effective from May 15, 2024, the policy revision indicates that international students completing such programs will no longer qualify for a post-graduation work permit, contrary to the previously slated date of September 1, 2024. Consequently, individuals embarking on this type of program on or after May 15, 2024, will find themselves ineligible for a post-graduation work permit upon graduation.
While this change restricts access to the post-graduation work permit, it does not entirely preclude graduates from seeking alternative work permits upon completion of their studies. For instance, graduates may still apply for a work permit backed by an employer’s approved labor market impact assessment, particularly for occupations facing labor shortages in Canada.
The IRCC emphasizes the importance of consulting the list of designated learning institutions available on their website to ascertain whether an institution’s graduates remain eligible for a post-graduation work permit. Additionally, the IRCC pledges ongoing collaboration with provinces and territories to identify programs impacted by this adjustment, with regular updates to the designated list as new information becomes available.
This announcement marks a pivotal shift in the landscape for international students pursuing college education in Canada, prompting them to reconsider their post-graduation plans and explore alternative avenues for gaining work experience in the country.
