Good News for International Students and their Employers: Changes to the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program

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Good News for International Students and their Employers: Changes to the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program

IRCC has announced changes to the highly-popular Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Program. It is an important program for employers who rely on hiring recent graduates from Canadian colleges and universities.

Effective February 14, 2019, students now have 180 days from the date they have been notified by their learning institution that they have met the requirements to complete their program of study to apply for a PGWP (up from 90 days). Additionally, students are no longer required to hold a valid study permit on the day they apply for a PGWP.

IRCC also expanded the PGWP processing instructions to address various situations that could impact a student’s eligibility for a PGWP, such as breaks in study, learning institutions that lose Designated Learning Institution status, strikes, and travel outside Canada before a decision is made on the application.

Other important points to keep in mind are:

  • The PGWP is an open work permit meaning the holder can work for any employer
  • The PGWP applicant may work full-time before receiving a decision on the PGWP application under certain circumstances
  • The duration of the PGWP may be valid from eight months to three years, depending on the length of the study program completed
  • The PGWP cannot be renewed nor does it provide a clear path towards permanent residence, and therefore a long-term immigration strategy may be required
Corporate Immigration Law Firm is experienced in advising employers and foreign nationals on immigration issues. Contact one of our immigration lawyers today for assistance.

Corporate Immigration Law Firm – Caruso Guberman Appleby is a Top Ten Immigration Boutique Law Firm as recognized by Canadian Lawyer magazine, with many of our lawyers recognized in Who’s Who Legal: Corporate Immigration year after year. We can be reached at 416-368-1111 or info@cilf.ca for all your immigration law needs.