In January 2024, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced that, effective September 1, 2024, international students who begin a study program that is part of a curriculum licensing arrangement will no longer be eligible for a postgraduation work permit upon graduation. This is intended “in order to better align the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program.”
On March 22, 2024, the date of this change was brought forward so that international students who begin a study program on or after May 15, 2024 that is part of a curriculum licensing arrangement will no longer be eligible for a postgraduation work permit upon graduation.
Background
Under curriculum licensing agreements, students physically attend a private college that has been licensed to deliver the curriculum of an associated public college. These programs have seen significant growth in attracting international students in recent years, though they have less oversight than public colleges and they act as a loophole with regards to post-graduation work permit eligibility.
Erickson Insights and Analysis
Erickson Immigration Group will continue to monitor developments and share updates as more news is available. Please contact your employer or EIG attorney if you have questions about anything we’re reporting above or case-specific questions.