Canada Extends Work Permits for International Graduates

Canada announced that foreign nationals with recently expired or expiring PGWP will qualify for an additional or extended work permit to stay longer in Canada.

On March 17, 2023, the Canadian government announced that foreign nationals with recently expired or expiring PGWP will qualify for an additional or extended work permit to stay longer in Canada for up to 18 months. This initiative aims to help employers who are struggling to find and retain the workers they need during the economic recovery and growth period.

International graduates can acquire valuable Canadian work experience through the PGWP program, which grants them an open work permit.

Starting April 6, 2023, the new policy will allow PGWP holders who wish to stay longer to opt-in to a facilitative process to extend their work permit and allow Canada to retain high-skilled talent.

The 2022 PGWP facilitative measure and those whose PGWP has already expired in 2023 will both be allowed to apply for an extra 18-month work permit. IRCC will send messages to those who qualify for the extension and invite them to access their online IRCC Secure Account.

This initiative is also beneficial for international graduates who are looking to make Canada their home. International graduates are an essential source of future permanent residents, with tens of thousands successfully transitioning to permanent residence each year, including more than 157,000 in 2021 and nearly 95,000 in 2022.

The additional work experience gained through an extended PGWP can enhance their chances of qualifying for permanent residency.

It is worth noting that PGWPs are typically not extendable. Individuals holding such permits who wish to prolong their stay in Canada as a worker are generally required to apply for a different type of work permit once their PGWP expires. The new policy recognizes the importance of international graduates as a source of future permanent residents.

Apply for your Post-Graduation Work Permit here

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