Canada has widened the range of study programs that qualify for Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWPs), enabling international graduates to remain in the country for up to three years.
The expansion, which took effect on Dec. 17 last year, includes new offerings in early childhood education and developmental service work, according to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), as reported by CIC News.
Under the revised policy, programs such as Montessori teacher education, child development, developmental services worker and child care provider are now eligible for PGWPs.
Larissa Bezo, President of the Canadian Bureau for International Education, told PIE News that early childhood care faces severe labor shortages across different regions.
Matthew McDonald, an immigration expert, described the change as a welcome development, noting the role international students can play in addressing Canada’s long-term labor market shortages in childcare.
IRCC plans to reduce the share of temporary residents from 6.5% of Canada’s total population to 5% by 2026. This year, the country will grant 437,000 student visas, a 10% decrease compared to last year’s figures.
Canada is one of the most popular destinations for international students, hosting over a million in 2023.
Source: https://search.app/pjghy5b2w9KWXfqB7
