Canada is considering significant changes to its post-study work permit program, a move that could impact hundreds of thousands of international students hoping to build careers or settle in the country.
The proposal comes as the federal government reviews immigration levels and seeks to ease pressure on housing, healthcare, and the labour market.
Canada Government Reviewing Eligibility Rules
Sources familiar with the discussions say officials are examining stricter eligibility criteria for PGWPs, including limiting permits for certain college programs and tightening institutional requirements.
The potential reforms reflect concerns that some private institutions attract students with the promise of easy work pathways, contributing to overcrowding and exploitation.
International Students Could Face New Restrictions
In addition, there is an exclusion of non-accredited or lower-quality colleges. Moreover, stricter attendance and academic performance requirements are being enforced. At the same time, there is a noticeable shift toward prioritizing high-demand fields like healthcare and technology. However, student groups warn that such measures could disrupt academic plans and ultimately create uncertainty for those already enrolled.
The federal government has faced growing pressure over rising immigration numbers, with international student intake climbing sharply in recent years. Critics argue the PGWP system has become a backdoor route to permanent residency, while supporters say students fill major gaps in Canada’s workforce.
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