Canadian Immigration News

Post-Graduation Work Permit Holders Can Apply for New Open Work Permits

1.75 minute read
"Canada has introduced a new policy that will allow international graduates to apply for a 1-time open work permit if their Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is about to expire.The PGWP is issued to international students who have completed their study programs for 3 years. A PGWP cannot be renewed or extended.However, the government body of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will accept applications of international graduates who wish to obtain a new work permit."
Written by My Visa Source Team
Published on:  Apr 13, 2021
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Canada has introduced a new policy that will allow international graduates to apply for a 1time open work permit if their Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is about to expire.

The PGWP is issued to international students who have completed their study programs for 3 years. A PGWP cannot be renewed or extended.

However, the government body of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will accept applications from international graduates who wish to obtain a new work permit.

What are the Requirements for Obtaining a New Open Work Permit?

They will be required to meet the following requirements:

  • Have a PGWP that expired on or after January 30, 2020, or have a valid PGWP that will expire in 4 months from the date of application
  • Be currently residing in Canada
  • Have a valid status as a temporary resident or be on implied status
  • Have a valid passport

The IRCC will accept applications for this work permit until July 27, 2021.

This change has been implemented due to the Covid-19 pandemic that impacted many recent international graduates due to a shortage of jobs in the labor market.

Many international graduates were unable to secure job offers, were laid off or had their working hours greatly reduced.

International graduates require Canadian work experience to be eligible for permanent residence in Canada.

How Does Gaining Work Experience in Canada Help International Graduates?

Canadian work experience makes international graduates eligible for several federal and provincial immigration programs such as:

This new policy is expected to address the growing concern of international students who wish to transition to permanent residence in Canada.

The IRCC places a significant emphasis on the importance of retaining international students since they make up an important part of the labor market.

International students help to fill the labor market shortages in areas such as healthcare, information technology, agriculture, and more.

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