For international students pursuing their dreams in Canada, securing a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is a major step toward building a career and future here. And now, there’s big news—Canada has officially removed the field-of-study restrictions for graduates of college-level bachelor’s degree programs!
Previously, only university graduates with a bachelor’s degree were exempt from these restrictions, while those graduating from college-level bachelor’s programs had to meet additional criteria related to labor market demand. But as of March 2025, that’s changing!
At Altec Global, we break down what this policy shift means for international students and how you can make the most of it.
What’s Changing with PGWP Eligibility?
Under the previous rules that took effect on November 1, 2024, only graduates from high-demand fields were eligible for a PGWP. However, with this new policy update:
✅ College bachelor’s degree graduates no longer need to meet labor market demand requirements to qualify for a PGWP.
✅ University bachelor’s, master’s, and Ph.D. graduates remain unaffected—they were already exempt from these requirements.
✅ Other college, polytechnic, or non-university program graduates still need to meet the labor market demand criteria to be eligible for a PGWP.
✅ All PGWP applicants after November 1, 2024, must still meet new language proficiency requirements.
This change is a major win for international students completing bachelor’s degrees at colleges or polytechnic institutions across Canada!
What is a Bachelor’s Degree in Canada?
In Canada, a bachelor’s degree is awarded by recognized higher education institutions and typically requires three to four years to complete. The classification of a program as a bachelor’s degree depends on provincial education standards and regulations.
When assessing PGWP eligibility, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) considers both the type of degree and the institution awarding it. Additionally, the date of your first study permit application plays a role in determining which rules apply to you.
PGWP Requirements: What You Still Need to Know
Even with the relaxed field-of-study rules, PGWP applicants must still meet the language proficiency requirements introduced in November 2024:
University Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Ph.D. Graduates
English: CLB 7
French: NCLC 7
Other University Programs
English: CLB 7
French: NCLC 7
College, Polytechnic, or Non-University Programs
English: CLB 5
French: NCLC 5
Must meet designated labor market demand criteria
Flight School Graduates & PGWP Applicants Before Nov 1, 2024
Exempt from new language & labor market rules
The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) remains one of the best pathways to Canadian permanent residency for international students. By gaining valuable Canadian work experience through the PGWP, graduates can significantly boost their chances of qualifying for programs like Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).
What This Means for You
If you are studying in a college bachelor’s degree program, this policy update gives you more flexibility when applying for your PGWP. No longer having to meet labor market demand criteria makes it easier for many graduates to qualify for an open work permit in Canada.
However, if you are in a college diploma or certificate program, the labor market demand requirements still apply. That’s why it’s critical to choose the right program if you’re planning your future in Canada.
Why Choose Altec Global?
If you’re an international student looking to apply for a PGWP, or if you’re unsure whether you qualify under the new rules, our expert team at Altec Global is here to help!
At Altec Global, we understand the complexities of the Canadian immigration system and are dedicated to helping applicants overcome these obstacles. Whether you’re waiting for your PR application, navigating temporary residence delays, or seeking citizenship, our team is here to guide you through the process and help make your Canadian dream a reality.
Make your personalized guidance on getting the right strategy for immigrating to Canada.