Newfoundland to Implement Measures to Retain International Graduates

Newfoundland and Labrador announced a series of supports that will be implemented for international post-secondary graduates seeking employment in the province. The project is aimed at retaining international graduates in the province and builds on Newfoundland’s larger initiative to welcome 5,100 newcomers annually by 2026.

Medical care extended for international graduates

Medical Care Plan (MCP) is a comprehensive medical care insurance plan that is designed to cover the cost of physician services for Newfoundland residents. MCP coverage is currently available to international students during their studies in Newfoundland. Newfoundland’s announcement included extending MCP by 90 days after graduating. This will allow international graduates to maintain health coverage while seeking employment opportunities in the province.

Funding for international graduate support

Studies have shown that international graduates are more likely to transition to permanent status in Canada if they are employed during their studies or after graduating. To assist international graduates in securing employment in the province, Newfoundland will be providing over $66,000 in funding toward the “Retaining Global Talent” project. The funds will be used to hire a Postgraduate Retention Coordinator, which will provide a level of support that is not currently available across graduate schools in Canada.

Over $25,000 will also be budgeted toward expanding the Professional Skills Development Program. The program helps international students gain labour market experience during their studies to better equip them for employment projects after graduation.

Another $27,282 will go toward the Supporting Newcomers in Newfoundland and Labrador project to deliver intercultural training sessions to  foster a better understanding and appreciation for the culture of international students.

Priority Skills stream

International students are increasingly seen as prime candidates for immigration. For that reason, many Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) are aimed at retaining international students that have graduated from a university in their province. Earlier this year, Newfoundland and Labrador implemented their new Priority Skills immigration stream, which included a pathway for candidates who have completed a Master’s degree of PhD in an in-demand field at Newfoundland and Labrador’s Memorial University. This stream also provides an opportunity for Newfoundland employers to recruit skilled international graduates and fill in-demand occupations. 

The federal and provincial governments have made it easier and easier for international students to eventually transition to permanent status. If you are interested in learning more about how Canadim can help you study in Canada, complete our free online assessment today!