Immiboards ― Canada introduced a new public policy allowing holders of expired or expiring Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) to apply for a new work permit.
Former international students in Canada with an expired or expiring Post Graduate Work Permit will have a one-time opportunity to apply for new open work permit with a duration of 18 months.
As quoted in the Government press release, one of the main reasons for creating this policy is the disruption caused due to the current pandemic.
This has impacted the chances of international students in obtaining the work experience they need to apply for permanent residence.
This change will allow former international students to remain in Canada, continue to seek employment and build their future in Canada.
The policy change is a unique one-time opportunity in the history of Canada’s immigration program. Applications will be open from January 27, 2021, until July 27, 2021.
To apply under this policy, a candidate must meet the following criteria:
- have a Post Graduate Work Permit that expired on or after January 30, 2020 or a Post Graduate Work Permit that expires in 4 months or less from the date they apply.
- Candidates must still be in Canada.
- Candidates must have a valid temporary status or be applying to restore it.
IRCC will add details of new work permit PGWP on applying to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada’s website on January 27, 2021.
International Students contribute $21 billion annually to Canada’s economy. According to Government data, more than 58,000 graduates successfully applied to immigrate permanently in 2019.
Between Jan and Dec 2020, nearly half of nearly 61,000 PGWP holders have already become permanent residents or have an application in processing as per Government data.
Attracting skilled immigrants is a vital part of Canada’s recovery plans. This policy will help fill critical gaps in healthcare, technology and more, as per the Government of Canada press release.
