Can I Extend My Post-Graduate Work Permit?
Eligible international graduates may apply to extend their Post-Graduate Work Permits (PGWP) as of August 2, 2022.
The extension is available to PGWP holders whose permits expired or will expire from September 20, 2021, to December 31, 2022.
The policy allows certain graduates to work in Canada for an additional 18 months by extending their permit or applying for an additional open work permit.
Express Entry is considered Canada’s fastest and easiest pathway to permanent residence. While Canada paused Canadian Experience Class draws in September 2021, PGWP holders who were unable to benefit from the public policy were left in limbo as their permit reaches its expiry.
Some international graduates that may have normally been invited in an Express Entry draw were forced to leave Canada as their status expired before they could apply for permanent residency. The policy was issued to help international graduates remain in Canada while Canadian Experience Class (CEC) Express Entry draws were paused.
Can I extend my PGWP in Canada?
If your post-graduate work permit expired or is expiring between September 20, 2021, and December 31, 2022, you may apply to extend your status for an additional 18 months.
The temporary public policy also allows former PGWP holders who lost status and are still in Canada on valid temporary status, or applied for, or are eligible to restore their status, to apply for an extension.
Post-graduate work permit extension applications must be submitted online by December 31, 2022.
Can I work in Canada while waiting for my new permit?
If your permit has expired or is expiring between September 20, 2021, and December 31, 2022, you will receive an email on August 8, 2022. The email will indicate that you may work in Canada while waiting for your new permit to be issued, up to May 31, 2023. You may include this email with your permit to show your employer that you are authorized to work in Canada.
Tens of thousands of former international students will receive an additional open work permit of 18 months, giving them an opportunity to stay in Canada longer, and helping businesses find the workers they need while allowing us to continue to attract global talent.
— Sean Fraser (@SeanFraserMP) June 24, 2022
Immigration options for international graduates in 2022
Canada has repeatedly made significant efforts to retain international graduates. International graduates are increasingly viewed as the ideal immigrant in the eyes of the Canadian government. During the pandemic, Canada has continued to accommodate the needs of international students. This was seen through Canada’s 2021 temporary TR to PR Pathway, which allowed International Graduates who were currently working in Canada to apply for permanent residence.
During a January TV interview, Immigration Minister Sean Fraser reiterated this message, mentioning his mandate to provide immigration pathways for international graduates. In a recent teleconference, Minister Fraser said he was interested in making it easier for international students to consider their studies as a “springboard” to permanent residency. While Fraser has been vocal about his support for international graduates, they are yet to see a program implemented that will spring them toward permanent status.
Canada is facing a significant labour shortage, with close to one million job vacancies. The Canadian economy relies on international students as a source of labour in its post-pandemic recovery.
Are you currently in Canada on a PGWP? If you are interested in learning more about your immigration options, complete contact us today for more information.
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