Extended Post-Graduate Work Permits (PGWPs):

The Canadian government now allows graduates whose PGWPs have expired or are about to expire to apply for an 18-month extension. This additional time is designed to help international students gain valuable Canadian work experience, a crucial criterion for transitioning to Permanent Residency (PR) through programs like the Canadian Experience Class (CEC).

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Introduction of Occupation-Specific Immigration Streams:

Canada’s Express Entry system has introduced category-based draws targeting students with experience in high-demand sectors such as:

• Healthcare (e.g., nurses, medical technicians)
• IT and software development (e.g., data analysts, software engineers)
• Skilled trades (e.g., electricians, carpenters)

These changes open clear pathways for students trained in these fields.

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Increased Off-Campus Work Flexibility:

Temporary policy changes now allow full-time international students to work over the previous 20-hour weekly limit during the academic year. This policy is expected to last until December 31, 2024, and is aimed at addressing labor shortages in sectors like retail, food service, and hospitality.

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