According to The Pie News, an international education organization, the Canadian government has sent letters to all provinces and territories to consult on changes to the post-graduation work permit (PGWP) program. The plan's objective is to "reduce the number of permits issued and adjust criteria based on labor market needs."

The total number of permits and specific priority sectors have not yet been announced. However, the government is considering whether to implement changes for all international students this year or only for new arrivals in subsequent academic years.

The PGWP allows international students to remain and work in Canada for nine months to three years, depending on their program of study. Many international students are currently working in Canada under this permit, hoping to accumulate sufficient years of experience and meet the conditions to apply for Permanent Residence (PR).

Khuon vien Dai hoc Waterloo, Canada. Anh: University of Waterloo Fanpage

If these proposed policies become reality and take effect immediately, they would significantly impact many international students. Students whose fields of study are not among those in demand or experiencing labor shortages could face restrictions on receiving a PGWP.

According to sources, last year Canada issued nearly 950,000 post-graduation work permits, a 266% increase over eight years.

Statistics from the Canadian Bureau for International Education (CBIE) indicate that Canada attracted over one million international students across all study levels by the end of 2023. A 2021 student survey revealed that over 70% intended to apply for a PGWP, and 60% planned to apply for PR afterwards.

Earl Blaney, a policy analyst, stated that changes to work permits for international students are necessary, but implementing them on a large and sudden scale would be "highly irresponsible."

He believes that without adequate justification, Canada's appeal to international students, especially those in sectors with high labor demand, will significantly decline.

According to the immigration specialist website Immigration Canada, healthcare remains a backbone of the country's labor market. Besides nursing, Canada urgently needs doctors, lab technicians, and personal support workers, particularly given its aging population.

Other sectors requiring personnel include: technology, skilled trades, logistics, and financial services.

By Khanh Linh (Compiled)