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2024 Latest Update: Canada Discontinued Work Permit for PG Students (PGWP)

2024-04-08 | by admin

In a significant development concerning international students pursuing their post-graduation studies in Canada, the Canadian government has recently announced the discontinuation of the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program. This decision has stirred discussions and raised concerns among prospective and current students, as well as educational institutions. 
In this article, we delve into the details of this latest update, its implications, and what it means for international students aspiring to build their careers in Canada.

Overview Of (PGWP) Program

Before diving into the recent changes, let's understand what the PGWP program entailed. The PGWP program allowed international students who have graduated from eligible Canadian institutions to obtain an open work permit, allowing them to gain valuable Canadian work experience. This work experience could then potentially lead to permanent residency in Canada under various immigration pathways.

Latest Update: Discontinuation of PGWP Program

As of the beginning of 2024, the Canadian government has decided to discontinue the PGWP program. This decision comes as a surprise to many, considering the program's role in attracting and retaining international talent in Canada. The discontinuation of the program is likely to have far-reaching implications for international students, educational institutions, and Canada's overall immigration landscape.

Implications of Discontinuing the PGWP Program

The discontinuation of the PGWP program is expected to have several significant implications:
  • Impact on International Students

International students who were planning to pursue their post-graduation studies in Canada to leverage the PGWP program to gain work experience and potentially settle in Canada may need to reassess their plans.
  • Effect on Educational Institutions

Canadian educational institutions, particularly universities and colleges, may experience a decline in international student enrollment. The PGWP program served as a significant incentive for international students to choose Canada as their study destination.
  • Changes in Immigration Trends


The discontinuation of the PGWP program could lead to shifts in immigration trends, with fewer international graduates choosing to remain in Canada after completing their studies.

Alternative Options for International Students


Despite the discontinuation of the PGWP program, there are still alternative pathways available for international students who wish to study and work in Canada:
  • Student Direct Stream (SDS)

The SDS program expedites the visa application process for international students from select countries, allowing them to study and work in Canada more efficiently.
  • Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)

Many Canadian provinces offer PNPs that provide pathways to permanent residency for international graduates who meet certain criteria, such as having a job offer in the province.
  • Express Entry System

International graduates with Canadian work experience may still be eligible to apply for permanent residency through the Express Entry System, which ranks candidates based on factors such as age, education, work experience, and language proficiency.

The Bottom Line 

The discontinuation of the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program marks a significant shift in Canada's approach to international student immigration. While this decision may present challenges for international students and educational institutions, there are still alternative pathways available for those wishing to study and work in Canada. 
As the immigration landscape continues to evolve, prospective students and stakeholders need to stay informed and explore their options accordingly.