Great news for international students about the extension of PGWP!
In today’s news from the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, a new update regarding international graduates has been announced. Post-Graduate Work Permits (PGWPs) that have recently expired or are about to expire may qualify for additional or extended work permits to continue working and gain additional experience for as long as 18 months. International graduates can obtain an open work permit through the PGWP Program to gain valuable work experience in Canada.
PGWP holders who wish to stay longer can participate in a facilitative process to extend their work permits starting April 6, 2023, allowing Canada to retain high-skilled talent. Foreign nationals eligible for the 2022 facilitation measure and whose PGWPs have already expired in 2023 can apply for an additional 18-month work permit. While awaiting the processing of their new work permit applications, those with expired work permits can restore their status, even after the 90-day restoration period has expired.
Other things candidates should know
- Beginning April 6, 2023, PGWP holders who qualify for the facilitative process will receive messages about accessing their online IRCC Secure Account to opt-in and update key personal data.
- As a result of the facilitative process used in 2022, some PGWP holders have had issues. Their implementation of a similar process is drawing on lessons learned from that one. The new policy allows eligible individuals under the 2022 initiative can apply for an open work permit and have their status restored. IRCC’s website will soon have instructions for applying.
If you want to learn more about Post-Graduate Work Permits (PGWP), please check the Canadian government’s official website!
Disclaimer: The information is obtained directly from the websites that appear in the source section. The information has been gathered as accurately as possible at the time of writing, but we cannot guarantee its accuracy or completeness. Please check their official website and digital channels for the most accurate and up-to-date information.