Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has eliminated the field-of-study requirement for international students graduating with bachelor’s, master’s or doctoral degrees from Canadian colleges seeking Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWP). This change equalizes opportunities between college and university graduates, removing a restriction that had particularly impacted business program enrollments. The decision addresses concerns about discriminatory practices and acknowledges colleges’ vital role in providing specialized skills for Canada’s labour market, though rebuilding international recruitment momentum may take time. Removing field-of-study restrictions is expected to enhance Canada’s competitiveness in the global education market and provide international students with more flexible pathways to permanent residency.
IRCC removes study field requirement for international college graduate work permits
