International Students and the Post Graduate Work Permit Program (PGWPP)

This study investigates the impacts of Canada's PGWPP on the employment outcomes of international students and how their integration into the Canadian labour market could be improved. The following research question is addressed in this paper: "What effect does PGWPP have on the employment outcomes of international students, and how can their integration in the workforce be enhanced? A qualitative methodology was adopted based on in-depth interviews with international graduates and critical stakeholders, including employers and university representatives. The descriptive analysis of the survey data that shows trends in awareness and utilization of PGWPP was also used. Participants were chosen by a purposive sampling strategy to ensure a broad representation across demographic variations, fields of study, and employment experiences. Findings showed that while PGWPP facilitates entry into the workforce for many graduates, systemic barriers around credential recognition, limited networking opportunities, and employer biases remain vital challenges. Participants identified a need for better career services, employer education, and program process streamlining. This research underlines the need for targeted policy interventions and increased institutional support if the program is to realize its full potential. It contributes to scholarship and practice by providing actionable insights to policymakers, educational institutions, and employers on how best to ensure fair and prosperous integration of international graduates into the Canadian labour market.