Canada’s work permit rule changes pose challenges for Indian students
Updated: Dec 13th, 2024
The Canadian government has once again revised its student visa policies. Now, individuals applying for a Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) will need to secure a job matching their qualifications after graduation to be eligible for the permit.
The move is expected to impact 23% of students from Gujarat and India who are studying or pursuing postgraduate courses in Canada, according to reports.
A growing concern lingers against Indian students that if they complete their postgraduate studies and their skills no longer align with the jobs listed on the occupation demand list, they may face significant difficulties in obtaining work permits.
An immigration expert, Pankaj Patel said that students will now need to carefully choose courses relevant to sectors with high demand for skilled workers.
“This policy eliminates the certainty of securing a job post-graduation. Students who spend a fortune on postgraduate education might find that their qualifications are not aligned with market demands, leaving them jobless and ineligible for work permits. However, students pursuing PhD programmes will have opportunities, provided they meet the new criteria,” he added.
Australia has been implementing a similar policy since 2011. As a result, international students who aim to transition to permanent residency status often face a waiting period of 7 to 8 years.
Similarly, students studying in Canada might now have to wait over 8 years to achieve permanent residency.
Indian students in dilemma
Due to these new regulations, students aspiring to study in Canada to settle permanently will be compelled to choose courses in sectors with a demand for skilled workers.
This effectively ends the long-standing practice of enrolling in diploma or specific postgraduate courses solely to obtain work permits.
Students will need to select courses that help develop skills aligned with labour market demands.
The policy will also impact Canadian colleges, which heavily rely on international students for revenue. These institutions will need to start offering courses aligned with the occupation demand list.
Colleges that previously earned substantial income by enrolling students in guaranteed post-graduate courses are now likely to face reduced earnings and must adjust their offerings accordingly.
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