Extended work permit duration
The extension permits Indian students to apply for a three-year work permit following graduation, regardless of programme duration, provided they have completed master's degrees in Canada for at least eight months.
Eligibility of shorter programmes
The period of the work permit has been extended for students enrolled in shorter master's programmes who were not previously eligible for PGWPs. This will improve their post-graduation employment prospects.
More post-graduation opportunities
Increased work permit lengths encourage Indian students to view master's programmes as means of obtaining worthwhile work experience, which increases programme enrolments.
Boost in Permanent Residency chances
With more time to explore a variety of employment options, graduates can boost their professional growth and improve their prospects of being granted permanent residency in Canada. This is made possible by the longer work permission period.
These students won't be eligible
Indian students enrolling in diploma or certificate programmes will not be eligible for a PGWP after September 1, 2024, as these graduates would not be recognised as eligible candidates.
Work permit for spouses
The change affects Indian students' ambitions to bring their families to Canada by changing eligibility requirements and imposing new limitations on work permits granted to spouses of international students.
