Canada’s work rules shift: Longer stays for master’s grads, Nigerian students hit by restrictions

Starting February 15, 2024, Canada implements changes to its Post-Graduation Work Program (PGWP), granting master’s degree holders a three-year permit if they meet eligibility criteria. 

However, from September 1, 2024, students in curriculum licensing agreement programs lose PGWP eligibility. Exceptional measures for distance learning and PGWP remain. PGWP allows international students to work anywhere in Canada for any employer post-graduation, depending on study level and passport expiry. 

Eligibility requires graduation from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) and willingness to temporarily work in Canada. 

This occurs amid reports of Canada barring foreigners, including Nigerians, from property ownership due to housing shortages from international student and migrant worker influx.