Work Permit Extension for PGWP Holders in Canada

For a limited time, PGWP holders can apply for an open work permit valid for 18 months.

January 8, 2021, Ottawa – The Honourable Marco E. L. Mendicino, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, announced today that former international students who hold or held a post-graduation work permit (PGWP) will have the opportunity to apply for an open work permit.

Foreign nationals in Canada affected by the pandemic with an expired or expiring PGWP will have a unique chance to apply for another open work permit. This will be valid for 18 months and allow former international students to remain in Canada, continue to seek employment and build their future in this country.

To apply for an open work permit under the public policy, an applicant must:

have a PGWP that expired on or after January 30, 2020, or a PGWP that expires in 4 months or less from the date they apply
still be in Canada
have a valid temporary status, or be applying to restore their status

Applications will be open from January 27 to July 27, 2021. Details on how to apply will be added to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada’s (IRCC) website on January 27, 2021.

IRCC estimates that as many as 52,000 graduates with expired or expiring PGWPs could benefit from the public policy.

“International students are giving back to communities across Canada as we continue the fight against the pandemic,” said Medicino. “Their status may be temporary, but the contributions of international students are lasting. Our message to international students and graduates is simple: we don’t just want you to study here, we want you to stay here.”

Canada has always looked favourably on international students. They help create jobs and fill labour shortages. They bring strong employment and language skills, bolstered by their Canadian education and work experience. They are therefore typically well positioned to apply for permanent resident status. Canada’s welcoming arms largely explains why it remains the country of choice for new immigrants.

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