Canada has allowed granting a 3-year post-graduation work permit (PGWP) to international students graduating from a master’s degree programmes, the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) said on Saturday.

“Effective February 15, 2024, changes to the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program (PGWPP) for graduates of master’s degree programmes will come into force,” an X post by the IRCC read.

According to the IRCC, the measure was taken as graduates of master’s degree programmes were excellent candidates to succeed in Canada’s labour market and potentially transition to permanent residence.

Those studying in master’s programmes that are less than two years in length are eligible for a 3-year PGWP.

It is pertinent to mention that foreign students, currently enrolled in a public-private partnership college programme, will be eligible for PGWP on meeting the other eligibility criteria.

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However, new students who enrol in such programmes will not be deemed eligible for PGWP.

Graduates of programmes that are at least two years in length at PGWP-eligible designated learning institutions are eligible for a 3-year PGWP, as are graduates of master’s degree programmes less than 2 years in length.